Preparing for the Birth
During the last trimester of your pregnancy you will begin looking forward to the imminent arrival of your baby. While a typical pregnancy lasts 40 weeks, in some cases babies come a bit early, so you should start preparing for birth when you enter the third trimester.
If this is your first pregnancy you will certainly have many questions about what to expect when you actually go into labor. Make a point to discuss this with your practitioner as the time approaches and be sure to discuss your different options regarding labor and delivery. You may also find it helpful to sign up for and take a childbirth class at this time. Childbirth classes are a great way to meet other expectant parents and to learn more about what you can expect when the big day finally arrives.
You should also give some thought at this time as to whether you plan to give birth naturally or whether you plan to use a pain relief method. If so, what type of pain relief method do you prefer is another question to consider. There are many different options worth considering, some of which include medicated pain relief options and others that are completely natural such as meditation and breathing techniques.
At this time it is also a good idea to develop a birth plan. If you are not familiar with the term, a birth plan is simply a statement that addresses your plans for the birth. Each person that is involved in the birth should have a copy of the birth plan. This will help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and understands your desires in the event that something unexpected should happen.
You should also pack a bag that you plan to take with you if you will be giving birth in the hospital or in a birthing center. Remember that once labor has started, it is only natural for both you and your partner to be a bit rattled and that is not the time to be trying to pack a bag. You should have your bag packed several weeks prior to your actual due date. Many women like to either keep it by the door or in the car so they will not forget it when it's time to leave. Plan to pack a comfortable nightie for yourself as well as your personal toiletry items and clothing for your baby to wear home.
While it may seem odd to be thinking about during the last trimester of the pregnancy you should also think about maintaining a light exercise routine.
Certainly you should discuss with your physician, but many women find that light exercise can aide them during delivery by improving their flexibility and strengthening their abdominal muscles.
During this time you should also try to get as much rest as possible. This may be difficult as sleep disturbances usually return during the third trimester but do try to take it easy in the last few weeks. Once your baby arrives you are likely to be tired and much of your energy will go toward recovering from the birth and caring for the needs of your new baby.
Finally, keep in mind that while preparing for the birth of your baby is definitely something that should not be overlooked, you should also understand that despite your plans, your labor and delivery may not go exactly according to your plans. In the event that something unexpected does occur, keep in mind that the most important thing is not whether everything went as you planned, but that you and your baby are both safe and healthy.
