Street Peeper Zimbabwe Street Peeper September 2017 | Page 60

THIRD TRIMESTER TO-DOS
Keep track of fetal movement. From about
week 28 on, you’ll want to count baby’s kicks
regularly and note any changes in activity, es-
pecially during month 9.
Watch your weight. Your pregnancy weight
gain will pick up speed at the beginning of the
third trimester and taper down as your due
date nears (you may even lose a pound or two).
If you’re not gaining enough (or if you’ve
gained too much), work with your doctor to
adjust your pregnancy dietto get back on track.
Keep moving! As long as you have your practi-
tioner’s OK and you follow a few fitness safety
precautions, it’s safe to continue pregnancy-
safe exercises up until your due date.
Schedule your third trimester checkups. Expect
tests for glucose levels, anemia and group B
strep in months 7 and 8. In month 9, your prac-
titioner will perform an internal examination of
your cervix to see if effacement and dila-
tion (the thinning and opening of your cervix)
have begun. If you’re classified as “high-risk,”
your doctor may also schedule a biophysical
profile or non stress test in the last few weeks
just to be sure everything is proceeding as ex-
pected.
Take a hospital tour. If you haven’t already,
month 7 is a great time to take a tour of the
hospital or birthing center where you plan to
give birth.
Choose your baby’s paediatrician. Interview a
few candidates with a list of questions around
week 32 and pick your favourite.
Buy baby gear. Make sure you have the baby
gear essentials— especially a crib, stroller, car
seat (which you’ll need to bring your baby
home from the hospital), changing table and
baby monitor. On that note, take your car seat
in to be professionally installed.
Get educated. In addition to a childbirth class —
which will help you to feel more prepared for
the entire birth process — you may also want
to consider classes on infant CPR and baby care.
Prepare to breastfeed. Read more about why
and how to breastfeed before baby arrives, and
possibly even take a breastfeeding class. And
don’t hesitate to ask your doula or a lactation
consultant for help later if you need it.
Learn about the stages of labor. Get prepared
for baby’s birthday by learning what to expect
during early, active and transitional labor as
well as pushing baby out and delivering the pla-
centa.