The ultimate pregnancy checklist: Tips for each trimester
Preparing for a baby is one of the most transformative journeys a family can take, but it’s not just about buying onesies or decorating a nursery. Beyond the surface excitement of baby showers and nursery décor, a deeper, more meaningful preparation is unfolding. Your body is doing an incredible job to nurture and grow your baby, laying the foundation for their life long before they take their first breath.
As you embark on this journey, assembling a trusted team of experts becomes just as essential as setting up a car seat. Think of the reassuring guidance of a midwife, the calming presence of a doula, and the specialized care of The Lactation Network’s International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs). This ultimate pregnancy checklist will help you focus on what truly matters — cultivating the knowledge, support, and confidence to navigate pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding with clarity and grace.
First trimester checklist
The first trimester of pregnancy lays the groundwork for the emotional, physical, and mental journey ahead.
- Choose a prenatal healthcare provider
Decide on an OB-GYN, midwife, or family doctor to guide you through your pregnancy. A midwife or OB-GYN will perform essential early tests and scans, monitor your health, and provide invaluable advice tailored to your unique needs. - Communicate with your partner or support network
Open discussions about roles, expectations, and fears help ensure everyone feels prepared for the months ahead. This is the time to identify your team, whether that includes family, friends, or hired professionals. - Research and connect with an IBCLC
Learn about the benefits of breastfeeding and start exploring lactation support early. Research demonstrates time and time again that prenatal education on breastfeeding drastically increases breastfeeding rates across the board, initiation through longitudinal continuation. Those who have prenatal support and education about breastfeeding during pregnancy have better breastfeeding success outcomes. An IBCLC can help you understand how your body is already preparing for breastfeeding and offer guidance to set the foundation for success post-birth. Building this relationship now ensures you have support when breastfeeding questions arise later. - Consider hiring a doula
Doulas provide emotional and physical support throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. They’re an advocate, helping you make informed decisions while easing the journey. - Explore prenatal classes
Begin researching birthing and breastfeeding classes to take later. Group breastfeeding classes offer education to help you feel more confident and less anxious about feeding your baby. - Learn about pelvic floor therapy
Companies like Origin offer resources to maintain pelvic floor health, which is vital for a smoother pregnancy and recovery. - Start your reading list
Find evidence-based books and articles on pregnancy and breastfeeding to grow your confidence and knowledge. Curating resources now can help prevent overwhelm later. - Take time to rest
The first trimester can bring fatigue and nausea. Listen to your body, prioritize rest, and give yourself permission to embrace slower days.
Second trimester checklist
The second trimester is the perfect time to focus on strengthening your support team, learning more about your baby’s development, and preparing for the exciting milestones ahead.
- Schedule a prenatal breastfeeding class
If you haven’t already, sign up for a group prenatal breastfeeding class. Learning about latching, milk production, and positioning now can better prepare you and empower you with practical skills before your baby arrives. - Meet with your IBCLC
Use this trimester to have a consultation with your International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Discuss your breastfeeding goals, ask questions, and learn about potential challenges so you feel prepared and supported.
- Connect with a pelvic floor therapist
The second trimester is an ideal time to start exercises and stretches recommended by a pelvic floor therapist. This proactive care supports your body as it adjusts to your growing baby, making pregnancy and postpartum recovery smoother. - Refine your birth plan
Begin outlining your birth preferences, including whether you’d like a midwife or doula present. Discuss pain management options, delivery positions, and any cultural or personal values you’d like to incorporate. - Explore postpartum support options
Look into hiring a postpartum doula or other support professionals who can assist with newborn care, household tasks, or meal preparation during those crucial early weeks. - Create a practical baby prep timeline
Start planning major to-dos like setting up a nursery or buying baby gear. Spread out these tasks so you’re not overwhelmed in the third trimester. Essentials like a car seat and safe sleep space are priorities, but everything else can come later. - Talk to your employer about parental leave
Use this trimester to finalize your maternity or parental leave plans. Understand your rights, communicate your needs, and prepare for a smooth transition when the time comes. - Continue prioritizing rest and wellness
Incorporate gentle exercise, stay hydrated, and enjoy nourishing foods. A well-supported body and mind will prepare you for the physical and emotional journey ahead.
Third trimester checklist
As the third trimester begins, it’s time to put the finishing touches on your preparations and ensure you’re ready to welcome your baby with confidence and support.
- Finalize your breastfeeding plan
Check with your hospital to see what lactation support will be available and inform your IBCLC of your wishes. Outside of routine contact with your chosen International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, this is when you’ll want to discuss skin-to-skin contact after birth, how to initiate breastfeeding within the first hour, and other tips and guidance. - Take a refresher prenatal class
Whether it’s a birthing class or a newborn care workshop, the third trimester is the time to solidify your knowledge. Bring your partner or support person along so they feel equally prepared. - Pack your hospital bag
Include essentials for both labor and postpartum recovery, such as comfortable clothes, toiletries, and items to support breastfeeding, like nipple cream or a nursing bra. Don’t forget your baby’s going-home outfit! - Line up postpartum care
Confirm postpartum appointments with your healthcare provider, pelvic floor therapist, and IBCLC. Make sure you have a plan for in-home support from a postpartum doula, family, or friends to ease your transition into parenthood. - Create a meal and home care plan
Stock your freezer with easy-to-reheat meals or organize a meal train with friends and family. Consider hiring short-term cleaning services or delegating household responsibilities to lighten your load after the baby arrives. - Prepare your partner or support person
Review roles and expectations for labor, delivery, and postpartum. Teach them how to support you during breastfeeding, handle nighttime feedings, and manage diaper changes so you feel like a team. - Install and check baby gear
Ensure your car seat is properly installed and your baby’s sleep area meets safety standards. If you’re breastfeeding, set up a cozy nursing station with everything you’ll need within reach. - Set realistic expectations for birth
While it’s great to have a birth plan, remember that flexibility is key. Talk to your provider about potential scenarios so you’re ready for whatever path your delivery takes. - Prepare siblings or pets (if you have them)
Help older siblings feel included by involving them in baby preparations. For pets, establish routines and spaces so the transition is smooth for them too. - Rest and recharge
Prioritize naps, relaxing activities, and anything that helps you feel calm and centered.
Your checklist for prioritizing care and support throughout pregnancy
Pregnancy is a journey that calls for both self-care and a strong support network. Equipped with this expecting parents’ essential guide, you’ll have the tools to approach each trimester with intention and assurance while setting a strong foundation of a thriving future for your growing family. Trust yourself and your clinical team and get ready to welcome your little one with love, care, and confidence! As a prenatal patient, now is the perfect time to kickstart your breastfeeding journey with the help of a highly trained International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.
We’re here for you, every step of the way. We work with your insurance to provide in-home, in-office, or telehealth visits with an IBCLC.
