Preparing for labour doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Breaking it down week by week can help you stay organised, calm, and ready for the big day. Here's your ultimate week-by-week guide to labour preparation.
Weeks 28-32: Laying the Foundation or earlier!
This is the perfect time to start thinking about your birth plan and gathering information about your options.
Start a Birth Plan: Research different types of births and interventions. Think about your preferences for pain relief, who you want in the room, and what environment you’d like.
Research Hospital or Birthing Centre Policies: Understand their rules on visitors, birthing positions, and amenities.
Sign Up for Classes: Whether it’s hypnobirthing, antenatal classes, or breastfeeding workshops, book them now so you have time to prepare.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Start experimenting with breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga. These will come in handy during labour.
Weeks 33-36: Getting Practical
As you enter the final stretch, it’s time to start gathering essentials and putting plans into motion.
Pack Your Hospital Bag: Include items for you, your baby, and your birth partner. (See our "Hospital Bag Checklist" article for details!)
Install the Car Seat: Familiarise yourself with how it works. Most hospitals won’t let you leave without a properly installed car seat.
Talk to Your Birth Partner: Discuss how they can support you, whether it’s massage techniques, advocating for you, or keeping you hydrated.
Plan Your Route: Know how to get to the hospital or birthing centre, and consider timing for traffic or alternative routes.
Prepare Your Home: Wash baby clothes, set up a bassinet or cot, and stock up on postpartum supplies.
Weeks 37-39: Fine-Tuning Your Preparation
You’re officially full term at 37 weeks, so now’s the time to focus on the final details.
Practice Labour Positions: Experiment with upright positions and movements to find what feels good.
Stock the Freezer: Prepare easy meals for postpartum recovery. You’ll thank yourself later.
Know the Signs of Labour: Learn about early labour signs, such as contractions, water breaking, or a bloody show.
Stay Relaxed: Use this time to rest and connect with your baby. Try visualisations of a calm, empowering birth.
Week 40 (and Beyond): Waiting Patiently
Your due date is just an estimate, so don’t stress if your baby takes their time.
Stay Active: Gentle walks or bouncing on a birthing ball can help encourage labour.
Communicate with Your Care Provider: Discuss next steps, including monitoring or induction, if necessary.
Double-Check Your Bag: Make sure everything you need is packed and ready to go.
Keep Yourself Comfortable: Focus on activities that relax you—reading, watching a movie, or soaking in a warm bath.
Top Tips for Labour Prep
Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. The more you know about the process, the more confident you’ll feel.
Trust Your Body: Your body was designed for this. Build trust through affirmations, breathing, and preparation.
Stay Flexible: Birth rarely goes exactly to plan. Focus on being prepared for different possibilities.
Labour preparation is about more than just logistics—it’s about creating a mindset of calm and confidence. By breaking it into manageable steps, you can feel ready to welcome your baby, no matter what surprises labour brings.
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