The second trimester is when your pregnancy really starts to show as the uterus grows rapidly in size. To put it in perspective, during this trimester, your baby will grow almost four times in size.
The second trimester is also looked upon as the easiest. Use this as an opportunity to really get prepared for your baby’s arrival. The tiredness and fatigue that you may experience in your third trimester might prevent you from carrying out a lot of tasks. So take advantage of this time where you’re feeling better and your energy levels are up
1. Get all your newborn essentials in the house
You almost certainly won’t want to leave the house the first few weeks after giving birth. Stock up on diapers, wet wipes, baby supplies and any personal hygiene products you might need for the baby’s first few weeks of life.
2. Cook and freeze
The future will be filled with many days and nights where you simply won’t have the energy to cook. For easy and ready-to-eat meals, take the time to make a few dishes now and freeze as many easy meals as possible. Casseroles, lasagnas and pies are great examples. Think about anything that can be frozen and unfrozen in small, quick sections.
3. Attend a class
Most new moms and dads have many questions about the pregnancy process itself such as what to expect during delivery, how to know when it’s time to go to the hospital and what worrying signs to look out for. Prenatal classes are a popular way for parents to get all of these questions answered. Think about attending regular antenatal classes, lamaze classes or newborn parenting classes.
4. Get your house prepared
Take care of any lingering chores, stock up the pantry and carry out outstanding household errands in advance. They very likely won’t get done for awhile.
5. Make a birthing plan
Depending on your personal circumstances you might be considering the use of a doula, a home birth or even a caesarian section. These are all important decisions that you need to make (hopefully in consultation with your OBGYN) but whatever your personal choices may be, put it all together in a birthing plan and share it with your provider.
6. Go on a mini holiday
Babymoons are becoming increasingly popular. Plan a mini getaway for you and your partner. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate, just a weekend trip or a short staycation. This little trip can give you a chance to relax and unwind before the baby arrives.
7. Do some budgeting
It never hurts to do some budgeting for your new baby. Babies can cost a lot and it might make a huge dent in your current budget. We recommend sitting down with your partner to discuss a baby-related budget and what possible changes to your employment status (maternity leave) may mean. You may not have all the answers right now but that’s okay. Finances are important, ongoing discussions to have. Planning ahead may also help to alleviate worry and stress down the line.
Get as much done as you can during your second trimester of pregnancy. That way, when you enter the third trimester you won’t have a bunch of little things to do. Rest should be the only thing you focus on during your third trimester.
