3rd Trimester

KEEP MOVING

It’s advisable to stick to your exercise programme right up to due date. “Research has shown that if you stop training from 32 weeks onwards (for non-medical reasons), even if you trained your whole pregnancy, your body deconditions, and you lose the benefits of exercise in pregnancy,” Dr Barsky explains.

KEEP ENERGY UP

The best way to do this, says Chrisna, is to eat regular, healthy snacks and meals to optimise energy levels. Plan your snacks and meals ahead of time, and drink plenty of water.

COOK AND FREEZE MEALS

Make enough for a few weeks, as you’re going to have your hands full with a new baby. “Another great idea is to rope in family members to cook a few meals that you can freeze,” Michelle suggests.

PRACTISE BREATHING

All the breathing and pain-coping techniques you learnt about in antenatal class may not be of much use during labour unless you practise it beforehand. “By doing this regularly it will become second nature to you,” says Michelle.

PACK THE HOSPITAL BAG

Do this even if you’re planning on a home birth – always be prepared for Plan B. And, pack separate bags for you and baby.

PREPARE YOUR MIND

In a few short weeks your life will change forever. Take time to prepare yourself emotionally, not only for labour, but also for motherhood. “It’s now that you should be spending some time on your own, connecting with yourself and bonding with your baby. Long warm baths in the evening, gentle morning walks and afternoon naps are always good,” Michelle says. As for when to begin your maternity leave, Michelle says it’s ideal to start at around 36 weeks, because “Waiting until the very last minute may leave you feeling exhausted and unprepared for the baby.”