Last weeks of pregnancy
What to prepare in the last weeks: appointments, hospital bag, documents, labor signs and when to call the maternity unit.
The last weeks help make the transition from pregnancy to birth and the first newborn days simpler. Not everything can be predicted, so the goal is to have essentials ready and know who to call.
Appointments and plan
Follow the schedule from your doctor, midwife or maternity unit. Ask clearly:
- when to call for contractions, waters breaking or bleeding;
- where to go during the day and at night;
- which documents to bring;
- what to do if baby movements reduce;
- how to manage medicines, maternal conditions or high-risk pregnancy.
If your pregnancy is high risk or induction or cesarean birth is planned, the plan should come from your care team.
Bag and documents
Pack a simple bag for you and your newborn. Check what your hospital provides and what it asks you to bring.
Usually useful:
- identity documents and pregnancy notes;
- health card or insurance details;
- comfortable clothes for birth and after;
- postpartum pads if required;
- bodysuits, sleepsuits, hat and blanket for the newborn;
- charger, water and snacks if allowed.
Signs not to ignore
Call the maternity unit or the number you were given right away if:
- baby movements reduce or do not feel normal;
- you have bleeding;
- you are leaking fluid;
- you have a severe headache, vision changes, upper abdominal pain or sudden swelling;
- you have fever or feel very unwell;
- contractions are regular according to the advice you received;
- you have an urgent concern.
Do not wait for the next appointment if a change worries you.
Preparing home
You do not need everything. You need a few safe essentials:
- safe sleep space with no pillows, soft bedding or loose objects;
- diapers and clothes for the first days;
- thermometer;
- correctly installed car seat if you go home by car;
- contacts for pediatrician, midwife or postnatal service.
What to expect in the first days
The first 48 hours include newborn checks, feeding support and observation of breathing, temperature, urine, stools and jaundice. Before discharge, ask when the first visit after coming home will be.
Useful links
Sources and further reading
- WHO recommendations on maternal and newborn care for a positive postnatal experience - World Health Organization
- Getting to know your newborn - NHS
- Hospital Stay for Healthy Term Newborn Infants - American Academy of Pediatrics
Sources are used to support general informational content and do not replace advice from a pediatrician or healthcare professional.
