Your pregnancy planning checklist

The beginning of pregnancy is an exciting and emotional time. As you prepare for this major change in your life, you probably have a long list of questions about what to expect.

Where to start?

As your baby grows, you can feel more confident by knowing exactly what steps to take—and when—to keep healthy and prepare for your baby’s arrival. Friends, family and your healthcare provider are all great sources of support when planning for pregnancy, labor and postpartum. You can also use our pregnancy planning checklist to get ideas for planning and organizing your pregnancy in each trimester so you can focus on enjoying this incredible journey.

Pregnancy has a lot of to-dos, but don’t forget to enjoy the journey while you’re on it. Take one step at a time, use the support you have and you’ll be amazing.

Before pregnancy

Quitting harmful habits that can affect your baby’s development, such as smoking and drinking alcohol
Scheduling a dental checkup and cleaning
Achieving a healthy weight through nutrition and exercise
Making a financial plan
Taking a prenatal vitamin with 800 mcg of folic acid

First trimester

Take a daily prenatal vitamin and continue throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding

Interview possible healthcare providers and schedule your first prenatal appointment by 10 - 12 weeks

Research and tour potential places to give birth (Make sure your healthcare provider attends deliveries there)

Review with your healthcare provider the safety of any medications you are taking
Take a daily walk to refresh yourself
Journal about your experience and emotions

See if you qualify for mother-child support programs such as WIC

Look into prenatal yoga or exercise classes in your area
Start saving money if you need to take unpaid time off from work to care for your baby
Rest as much as you can

Enroll in Virtual Pregnancy Care for guidance and support through every step of your journey

Second trimester

Sign up for childbirth, breastfeeding, baby care or infant CPR classes
Research and meet potential doulas (Doulas are professional labor assistants who also offer prenatal and postpartum services)
Buy new or gently used maternity clothes. Consider clothes that are comfortable and allow access for breastfeeding
Pack healthy snacks in your purse or a soft-sided cooler (You’ll need an extra 300 calories each day now)
Take prenatal exercise classes or continue your prenatal exercise routine
Get a full-body pillow or gather extra pillows for support at night
Research and start making a list of baby names you like
Register items for your baby shower or begin making a list of things you’ll need for your baby
Take time to travel while you’re feeling good
Research and meet potential daycare providers if you plan to return to work
Make time to connect with your baby each day
Get details of your maternity and paternity leave policies at work

Pre-register for your delivery through the MyBSWHealth app and schedule a tour of your hospital or birth center

Third trimester

Write down your birth preferences so you can share them with your labor support partner and healthcare providers
Make space for your baby to sleep in a crib or bassinet near your bed for at least the first six months
Gather any necessary baby supplies you still don’t have
Plan your maternity and paternity leave dates
Interview potential pediatric healthcare providers for your baby
Install your infant car seat and have it checked by a certified technician
Talk to your partner regularly about how both of you are feeling with the upcoming birth and parenthood
Try on nursing bras (Select these at the end of your pregnancy because your breasts will continue to change)
Pack what you’ll need for labor, your hospital stay and coming home

If you plan to return to work, research breast pumps to buy or rent (or see if you qualify for your county WIC program)

Practice labor techniques with your labor-support partner
Find the quickest route to your birthplace (Consider rush hour and high-traffic times or areas)
Make time to connect with your baby each day
Enroll in Virtual Postpartum Care for support and guidance after your delivery