'To-Due' List

'To-Due' List

Pregnancy is a miraculous and life-changing experience. However, the new to-do list can intimidate any first-time parent. Let this convenient timeline guide you through the pregnancy stages — from doctor’s visits and maternity apparel to baby showers and beyond.

First Trimester

While the first trimester is very exciting, it’s also the least eventful. Some women suspect they’re pregnant right away; others don’t find out until weeks into the pregnancy. Either way, it’s recommended to see your doctor and/or midwife between week 4 and 8. This is considered your first prenatal-care appointment. Also begin taking prenatal vitamins and monitoring your nutrient intake right away. Morning sickness usually occurs between weeks 4 and 12, although this varies.

The first trimester is a good time to:

  • Look into your health insurance plan and find out how it covers pregnancy care.
  • Consider how pregnancy and caring for a baby affects your finances.
  • Think about maternity / paternity leave.
  • Set up a savings account for your child’s education.
  • Start buying maternity clothes, although you probably won't need them until the second trimester.
Second Trimester

The middle part of your pregnancy is when everything sinks in and feels real. Most women “show” between the end of the third month and the beginning of the fifth.

Expect doctor’s appointments every 4 to 5 weeks. You’ll also experience a major milestone: your standard mid-pregnancy ultrasound. At this appointment, you’ll “meet” your baby for the first time. Plus, you can learn his or her gender, if you so desire. Moms-to-be usually feel baby’s first movements during the second trimester.

The second trimester is an ideal time to:

  • Share your big news with family and friends.
  • Tell your boss and start scheduling maternity / paternity leave.
  • Start planning and decorating the nursery.
  • Look into childcare options.
  • Sign up for childbirth classes.
Third Trimester

In the final few weeks of pregnancy, finish preparing for your baby's arrival. Learn everything you can about childbirth and early parenting. Most expectant moms purchase some additional maternity clothes — new apparel helps accommodate growing bellies. During the third trimester, your partner and other family members can feel the baby’s movements from the outside. Some women feel very tired during this time; others have a burst of energy and the urge to clean, organize and prepare.

In the third trimester, most parents-to-be:

  • Throw a baby shower.
  • Finish up childbirth classes and/or parenting classes.
  • Choose a pediatrician.
  • Baby-proof the house.
  • Finalize a birth plan with a doctor, midwife or doula.
  • Get a baby car seat, a stroller, diapers, bottles, baby clothing (including a “homecoming” outfit) and other necessities.
  • Prepare and freeze baby food.
  • Put the finishing touches on the nursery.
  • Wash all-new baby clothing using a gentle, allergen-free detergent.
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