Navigating the Third Trimester: Essential Must-Haves for Comfort and Preparation

Here’s my third trimester recap, covering all the feelings, thoughts, and practical must-haves for any other expecting mamas out there gearing up for baby’s arrival!

We’ve officially waved goodbye to the second trimester and are deep into the home stretch of the third trimester. This isn’t just “third trimester” anymore; we’re in that exhilarating, slightly terrifying window where Baby could make their grand debut at any moment. The anticipation is palpable, a mix of excitement and a desperate need for a comfortable sleeping position.

The most significant change I’ve observed this trimester, beyond the inevitable body swelling, is a profound and steady slowdown. I am utterly exhausted. I had optimistically hoped to maintain my energy levels for a bit longer, but each day I find myself less able to be on my feet for extended periods. Simple tasks feel monumental, and my body constantly reminds me to rest. It’s a stark contrast to the second trimester’s “honeymoon phase” and a clear sign that my body is working tirelessly to prepare for birth.

Sleep, once a cherished nightly ritual, has become an elusive dream. I toss and turn, navigating the ever-growing bump, constantly yearning for the day I can lie flat on my back again. The discomfort is real, making restful sleep a rare luxury.

I know this might sound a little bleak, but honestly, it’s been a rough patch. Especially with limited social gatherings and feeling somewhat on lockdown until Baby decides to arrive. This period can often feel like the most isolating part of pregnancy. If you’re experiencing similar feelings, please know you’re not alone. We’re in the thick of it, and perhaps this isn’t exactly what we envisioned our pregnancies would be like. However, we can still choose to focus on the small, positive moments each day brings.

Embracing a new mantra—finding a couple of good things each day—has been a game-changer for my mental well-being. Whether it’s the simple joy of indulging in holiday cookies, watching a favorite holiday movie, or cherishing the precious moments of peace and quiet settling over the house, these small acts of self-care are vital. I’ve found solace kicking back in my favorite chair with my furry friend, Mochi, soaking up the snuggles while binge-watching past seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Whatever brings a smile to my face, no matter how minor, becomes a lifeline as my body grows increasingly uncomfortable and prepares for the incredible journey ahead. It’s about consciously seeking out joy amidst the physical and emotional challenges of late pregnancy.

Now, let’s dive into the practical side of things and explore some essential third trimester must-haves that have truly helped me navigate these final weeks!

For those wondering, I haven’t been taking enough photos lately, so I don’t have a good third trimester bump pic! I know, I know…. it feels shameful! But rest assured, I will be posting maternity pics soon, so definitely look forward to those!

Books for Escapism and Enjoyment

Ok, I admit, I’ve been a bit lax on my audiobook listening this trimester. My significant slowdown means less cooking and, consequently, less time with my earbuds in! However, when I have managed to listen, I’ve found immense enjoyment in a couple of truly captivating stories that are perfect for diverting your mind from third trimester discomfort.

Children of Blood and Bone – This is an absolute must-read! Seriously, this fantasy novel is incredibly immersive and thrilling. It weaves a rich narrative with surprising parallels to contemporary cultural issues, making it both engaging and thought-provoking. The audiobook version, in particular, is a delight. The narrator is phenomenal, bringing the characters and world to life in a way I haven’t experienced in a long time. It’s perfect for those moments you need to escape into another world.

Children of Virtue and Vengeance – The eagerly anticipated second book in the series, which I’ve just begun, is proving to be just as enthralling as its predecessor. Again, the narrator’s performance truly elevates the experience, making the audiobook a highly recommended choice. These books offer a wonderful escape from the daily realities of late pregnancy, providing hours of captivating storytelling.

Comfortable Maternity Clothes

Let’s be real, high fashion isn’t exactly at the top of my priority list right now. Comfort reigns supreme during the third trimester! Here are the essential basics I’m relying on to feel good, even when my body is doing some serious work.

Maternity Nursing Camis – These camis are incredibly soft and comfortable, offering much-needed built-in support for my growing bust. The genius part? They’re designed for nursing, meaning I can wear them now for ultimate comfort and transition seamlessly into postpartum life. The only minor drawback is they require hand washing, but for the comfort and versatility they offer, it’s a small price to pay. They’ve become a foundational piece in my maternity wardrobe.

Full Bust Nursing & Maternity Bra – I cannot stress enough how comfortable these bras are. As someone with a fuller bust, finding a supportive and comfortable bra during pregnancy felt like an impossible quest. These bras are truly magical! They are completely wire-free, eliminate any pinching or digging, and provide excellent support without sacrificing comfort. Knowing they’ll also be perfect for nursing once Baby arrives adds to their appeal, making them a wise investment for both immediate and future needs.

Maternity Women’s Casual Pants – I believe I linked these during my second trimester recap, and honestly, I don’t care about repeating myself because they are simply too comfortable not to share again! I love them so much that I keep buying more pairs. The soft, stretchy fabric is a dream, accommodating my growing belly with ease. I’m optimistically hoping they’ll still fit postpartum because I truly adore them. For the next 4 to 5 weeks, I’m pretty sure these will be my go-to, if not my only, pair of pants.

Essential Comfort Items

When you’re in the third trimester, comfort isn’t just a luxury; it’s an absolute necessity. These items have been instrumental in making these final weeks more bearable.

Big Blanket – I have the Premium Woven Blanket, a thoughtful gift from “the Man” last Christmas, and it has undeniably become my best friend as my pregnancy progresses. Its generous size and luxurious feel make it perfect for snuggling up. I’ve often found myself bringing it into the nursery, enjoying the cozy chair we recently added, enveloped in its warmth and softness. It’s an essential part of my nesting routine, creating a little sanctuary of calm.

Rechargeable Hand Held Deep Massager – Another incredible gift from “the Man,” and holy crap, this thing is amazing! The cordless design is a huge plus, allowing me to use it anywhere in the house to target aches and pains. It comes with a variety of attachments, perfect for working out knots in my back, shoulders, and even my weary legs. This massager has made a significant difference in alleviating discomfort, surprisingly contributing to better sleep quality by easing muscle tension before bed.

Wrist Support Band – Unfortunately, I experienced a flare-up of carpal tunnel syndrome during the later trimesters, which was far from enjoyable. It’s been particularly bothersome in my right hand, making simple daily tasks difficult. Wearing this wrist support band for a few hours each day has provided remarkable relief, helping to alleviate the pain and discomfort. It’s a small but mighty item for a common, often overlooked, pregnancy symptom.

WhatsBedding Full Body Pillow Insert – Initially, I tried a large C-shaped pregnancy pillow, but I consistently woke up with terrible neck pain. It simply wasn’t providing the right support for me. Switching to a standard full body pillow has been a game-changer. It offers the perfect amount of support, allowing me to align my body comfortably. With Mochi or “the Man” cuddling my back (they sweetly switch roles for me!), I feel completely relaxed and supported. To complement this, I also invested in this Leeden Cotton Body Pillow Cover, 800 Thread Count. It’s incredibly smooth and soft, and crucially, it stays cool throughout the night – an absolute blessing for me, as I’m practically a furnace at this stage of pregnancy!

Random Yet Indispensable Things

It’s often the little, unexpected items that make the biggest difference in your daily comfort and preparedness during the third trimester. These “random things” have proven to be surprisingly essential.

Iron Flask Sports Water Bottle – Hydration is paramount during pregnancy, but many popular insulated water bottles, like the Hydro Flask, come with a hefty price tag. I opted for this Iron Flask alternative, and it’s fantastic! Its 40oz capacity means fewer refills, my drinks stay perfectly cool for hours, and it’s robust enough for daily use. I’m already planning to load it into my hospital bag, ensuring I stay well-hydrated when it’s “go time!”

AmazonBasics Wire Storage Baskets – I’ve entered full “hyper-organization” mode, a clear sign of the nesting instinct kicking in! These stackable wire baskets have been incredibly useful. I’m planning to use a couple as dedicated “breastfeeding stations” around the house, stocked with essentials like nipple cream, nursing pads, and a burp cloth. Think of them as diaper caddies, but specifically for mama’s needs! They offer convenient access to items, making life a little easier postpartum.

Avocado Case Cover for AirPods – Because amidst all the serious preparations and discomfort, we all need a little something cute and whimsical in our lives. This adorable avocado case makes me smile every single time I reach for my AirPods. It’s a small, joyful indulgence that adds a touch of personality to my everyday essentials.

Food Cravings & Aversions

Since everyone always asks, here’s the rundown of my ever-changing food cravings and aversions during this final trimester!

Food Cravings – ALL. THE. SWEETS. Seriously, I cannot get enough cookies, cake, and ice cream at the moment. My sweet tooth is insatiable! And of course, Nutella remains a constant, preferably eaten by the spoonful directly from the jar. Interestingly, despite these intense cravings, I’m not as hungry for full meals, so my portions have become smaller. This wasn’t what I expected, but it makes sense as my growing baby takes up more and more space, leaving less room for my stomach. The true test of my willpower, however, comes from the intense longing for foods currently off-limits: sushi and medium-rare meat. Knowing that the end is in sight and these delicious treats will soon be back on the menu only intensifies my desire for them!

Food Aversions – At this point, anything that remotely resembles “healthy” food is a tough sell, haha. The mere idea of a crisp salad or a plate of steamed vegetables simply doesn’t appeal to me. My body seems to be demanding hearty, fatty, and sweet comfort foods, and I’m finding it hard to argue. It’s a common pregnancy phenomenon where your preferences shift dramatically, often favoring foods that provide quick energy or comfort. I’m listening to my body’s signals, within reason, and trying to balance my cravings with some essential nutrients, but let’s just say salads are definitely not on the menu right now!

Navigating the third trimester is a unique journey filled with physical challenges, emotional shifts, and the overwhelming excitement of impending parenthood. By embracing comfort, seeking small joys, and utilizing these essential must-haves, you can make these final weeks a little smoother and more enjoyable. Hang in there, mama – the finish line is in sight, and soon you’ll be holding your precious little one!