The Final Countdown Begins - The Third Trimester Survival Kit

You have finally reached the last stretch of your pregnancy - the third trimester! Are you excited? Nervous? With only a couple of months left before you meet your baby, and your larger-than-ever bump, things tend to get a little complicated. Most women say this is the hardest part of pregnancy. As the countdown begins, we bring you a list of items you need to survive the last trimester of your pregnancy.

The Ultimate Third Trimester Checklist

1.Antacids

We know heartburn has been with you for a while. In the third trimester of your pregnancy, it's only going to get worse as the baby increases pressure on your stomach. Your digestion, too, will probably go for a toss. Sorry! Keeping a few antacids of your choice will always come in handy.

2.Nursing Bra

You finally have the glorious pair of breasts you have wanted for so long. They are here, hurrah! But chances are, the last few weeks of the third trimester will make you feel sore. If you are someone who has not given into the lure of buying maternity clothes yet, now is the time to do so. In the third trimester, we recommend going for nursing bras straight instead of investing in regular maternity lingerie if you plan to breastfeed. If not, go for a maternity bra because it is made of softer materials with better stretch and comfort.

Also Read- Your First Trimester Checklist

3.Maternity Belt

If your growing belly puts too much pressure on your back and causing back pain, it's time to go for belly support or maternity belts. These belts tie around your hips or where the protruding belly ends to support your back and keep you walking straight.

4.Maternity Clothes

Get some maternity clothes, if you haven't already. It's the last trimester! Stop wearing oversized T-shirts with slouchy shoulders. Cut the hobo look and buy yourself some clothes made specifically for pregnant mothers.

Special mention: Get yourself a box of stretchy maternity leggings if possible. They are your best friend when the belly is so huge that most things feel uncomfortable.

5.Panty Liners

You may have noticed that the rate and amount of discharge during the last trimester has increased considerably. Blame it all on the hormones trying to retain extra fluid in your body for the baby and you. Therefore, it's time to buy pantyliners for the sake of your clothes.

6.Stability or Birth Ball

Sure, you could use a stability ball for exercising, but we also love it for sitting on as the baby's due date approaches. Not only does it help promote optimal posture thanks to its ab- and back-strengthening benefits, it can help to stretch and open your hips in preparation for labor gently.

Also Read- The Definitive Second Trimester Checklist

7.Compression Socks

Do your legs feel heavy and cramped all the time? We feel you. This is where compression socks come in. Your body has been sending all the extra fluid down to your limbs, causing oodles of discomfort. We agree slipping into compression socks might make you feel like your grandpa for a second, but the relief they give is unbeatable.

8.Thank You Notes

With the third trimester comes the baby shower. We hope you are looking forward to this because- gifts. Who doesn't love gifts and the love and attention that will be showered on you that day. You are the queen of the day. It's best to get some 'Thank You' notes prepared in advance for your guests.

9.Heating Pad

Your hips and back will be a lot achier in the later months of pregnancy. When you can't visit a chiropractor or get your regular prenatal massage, heat can be your best friend. Before you go to bed, consider using a heating pad or heating a rice bag to get relief and relax your muscles. Additionally, heat is also a beautiful thing to ease the pain during labor. So don't forget to pack these things in your hospital bag!

Note: Ensure that you turn off the heating pad before you fall asleep to prevent overheating and avoid burning your skin.

10.Books

The third trimester of pregnancy will have you lay down a lot. To keep your mind from wandering off to distant places and keep learning new things, we recommend you stack some books on your bedside table. It could be baby books, romance, adventure. Anything that is a page-turner and keeps you upbeat.

We hope you check all these items in your third-trimester survival kit. Take care and all the best!