Your Ultimate Third Trimester Survival Guide: Essential Must-Haves & Honest Reflections for Expecting Moms

Welcome to the home stretch, mamas-to-be! This post is a candid look at the third trimester, sharing all the feelings, thoughts, and essential must-haves that have helped me navigate these final, often challenging, weeks of pregnancy. If you’re also in your third trimester, you’re definitely not alone in this journey!

We’ve officially waved goodbye to the second trimester and plunged headfirst into the exhilarating, yet often exhausting, world of the third trimester. Specifically, we’re now in that magical (and slightly terrifying) window where Baby could make their grand entrance at any moment. The anticipation is palpable, mixed with a healthy dose of “when will this finally happen?” and “am I truly ready?”

The most profound shift I’ve experienced during these final weeks, beyond the undeniable expansion and swelling of my body, is a significant and steady slowdown. The boundless energy I surprisingly found in the second trimester has all but vanished. I am, to put it mildly, absolutely exhausted. There was a part of me that hoped I’d maintain some level of vigor for a little longer, but the days now feel shorter, not just because of the diminishing daylight, but because I find myself physically unable to be on my feet for extended periods. Simple tasks feel monumental, and my body constantly cues me to rest.

Sleep, once a cherished nightly ritual, has become a distant dream. I spend most nights tossing and turning, caught between an ever-growing bump and various aches, simply fantasizing about the glorious day I can once again lie flat on my back. The discomfort is real, and the pursuit of a restful night’s sleep feels like an Olympic sport I’m constantly losing.

I know, I know… this might sound a bit like a doom-and-gloom report, but let’s be honest, the third trimester can be genuinely rough. Especially with current global circumstances limiting holiday gatherings and keeping us pretty much in a state of lockdown until Baby decides it’s time to arrive. This period has felt like the most isolated chapter of my pregnancy journey. So, if you’re reading this and resonating with these feelings, know that I wholeheartedly feel you, mama. We are truly in the thick of it, and perhaps this isn’t exactly the picture of pregnancy we might have imagined. BUT, and this is a crucial “but,” we can consciously choose to focus on the good things, however small, that each day brings.

Embracing a new daily mantra – finding a couple of uplifting things each day – has become my lifeline. It could be something as simple as savoring a festive holiday cookie, indulging in a favorite holiday movie marathon, or truly cherishing those fleeting moments of peace and quiet that settle over the house. Sometimes, it’s just kicking back in my comfiest chair with my furry companion, Mochi, soaking up the snuggles while I binge-watch past seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Whatever small joy I can discover, it helps bring a much-needed smile to my face as my body becomes increasingly uncomfortable and unwieldy.

Now that we’ve covered the emotional and physical landscape, let’s dive into the practical side of things: my essential third trimester must-haves that have made this final stretch a little more manageable and a lot more comfortable!

For those curious about bump updates, I haven’t been taking nearly enough photos recently, so a proper third trimester bump pic isn’t readily available! I know, I know… scandalous! But fear not, I will be posting maternity photoshoot pics very soon, so definitely look forward to those for some stylish bump inspiration!

Books for the Third Trimester

Okay, I confess, I’ve been a bit lax on my usual audiobook binge lately. My energy has slowed down significantly this trimester, meaning less time in the kitchen whipping up meals, and consequently, less time with my headphones on! However, I have still managed to dive into a couple of truly fantastic audiobooks that I absolutely adore and highly recommend for any expecting mom looking for an escape or a captivating story.

• Children of Blood and Bone: This is an absolute MUST-READ (or listen!). Seriously, this book by Tomi Adeyemi is nothing short of incredible. It’s a captivating fantasy epic that, surprisingly, draws powerful parallels to contemporary cultural issues, making it even more impactful. The audiobook experience is particularly delightful, boasting one of the best narrators I’ve had the pleasure of listening to in a very long time. It’s perfect for losing yourself in a rich world when physical energy is low.

• Children of Virtue and Vengeance: The thrilling second installment in the series, and I’ve just begun it. So far, it’s proving to be just as enthralling as its predecessor. Again, I truly believe the narrator enhances the entire experience, making the audiobook version one that I HIGHLY recommend. If you’re looking for a series to transport you away from the everyday discomforts of late pregnancy, this is it.

Beyond these, consider audiobooks or podcasts that are lighthearted and offer pure escapism. While some might opt for birth prep books, sometimes a good fantasy novel is exactly what a tired brain needs!

Maternity Clothes: Comfort is Key

Let’s be real, fashion isn’t exactly topping the priority list when you’re in your third trimester. Comfort reigns supreme! Here are the essential basics I’ve been living in, proving themselves to be true third trimester must-haves for maximizing ease and minimizing fuss.

• Maternity Nursing Camis: These camisoles are incredibly comfortable and, crucially, come with built-in support, which is a game-changer when your regular bras start to feel restrictive. What makes them truly exceptional is their dual functionality – designed for nursing, they are perfect for pregnancy and will transition seamlessly into postpartum life. The only minor drawback is that they are hand wash only, but the comfort they provide makes the extra effort absolutely worth it. I genuinely adore them for their versatility and softness.

• Full Bust Nursing & Maternity Bra: SO COMFORTABLE! I cannot emphasize that enough. As a bustier gal, it felt like an eternal quest to find a bra that actually fit well and offered support without sacrificing comfort. These bras are nothing short of magical. They are completely wire-free, meaning no painful digging or pinching, and they provide excellent support. Plus, their design makes them ideal for nursing once Baby finally arrives, ensuring long-term utility.

• Maternity Women’s Casual Pants: I believe I linked these back in my second trimester recap, but honestly, I don’t care if it’s a repeat because they are simply too comfortable not to rave about again! I’m genuinely holding onto hope that they will still fit and feel amazing postpartum because I LOVE THEM. I keep purchasing more pairs because they’ve become my absolute go-to. I’m pretty sure these will be the only pants I willingly wear for the next four to five weeks leading up to and right after delivery. They are soft, stretchy, and perfect for lounging or quick errands.

Ultimate Comfort Essentials for Expecting Moms

In the final trimester, comfort isn’t a luxury; it’s an absolute necessity. As your body undergoes its most significant transformations, these items have become indispensable in my daily quest for ease and relaxation.

• Big Blanket: I have the Premium Woven Blanket (a thoughtful gift from my partner last Christmas), and it has truly become my best friend as my pregnancy progresses. Its generous size means I can fully cocoon myself, and the luxurious texture is incredibly soothing. I’ve often found myself bringing it into the nursery lately, enjoying the cozy chair we’ve set up, making it a comforting companion during moments of quiet reflection and nesting.

• Rechargeable Hand Held Deep Massager: My partner gifted me this, and holy cow, it’s nothing short of amazing! The cordless design is incredibly convenient, allowing me to use it anywhere in the house – on the couch, in bed, or even in the nursery. It also comes with a variety of different attachments, which are fantastic for targeting stubborn knots and easing those pregnancy-related aches and pains in my back, shoulders, and legs. It has genuinely made a significant difference in my ability to relax and, consequently, improve my sleep quality.

• Wrist Support Band: Carpal tunnel syndrome decided to make an unwelcome appearance during the later trimesters, and it’s been anything but enjoyable. It’s been particularly troublesome in my right hand, causing numbness and pain. Wearing this simple yet effective support band for a few hours each day has provided immense relief and significantly reduced my discomfort. It’s a small item that makes a big difference when dealing with pregnancy-related nerve issues.

• WhatsBedding Full Body Pillow Insert: Initially, I tried a large C-shaped pregnancy pillow, but I consistently woke up with terrible neck pain, signaling it was time for a change. I switched to a standard full-body pillow, and it has been absolutely wonderful. It offers precisely the support I need for my growing belly and hips without contorting my neck. Paired with either Mochi (my pet) or my partner cuddling my back (they sweetly switch roles for me!), I feel completely relaxed and supported. To complete the setup, I also got this Leeden Cotton Body Pillow Cover with 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 essentially a human furnace at this stage of pregnancy!

Random Third Trimester Must-Haves

Sometimes, it’s the small, unexpected items that end up making the biggest difference in your daily life, especially during the third trimester. These little treasures have unexpectedly become essential must-haves for me.

• Iron Flask Sports Water Bottle: Hydration is paramount during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. While many expecting mothers swear by the Hydro Flask, I found its price tag a bit steep. I opted for the Iron Flask instead, and it has been fantastic! This 40oz bottle is perfect for ensuring I meet my daily water intake, and it genuinely keeps my drinks refreshingly cool for hours. It’s so reliable that I’m already planning on loading it into my hospital bag for when it’s finally go-time!

• AmazonBasics Wire Storage Baskets: I’m deep in “hyper organization mode” – a classic sign of nesting! These stackable wire baskets have been an absolute godsend. I’m planning on designating a couple of them as portable breastfeeding stations around the house. They’ll be perfect for holding all the essentials like nipple cream, nursing pads, burp cloths, and even a small snack for myself. Think of them as diaper caddies, but specifically for mama’s needs! LOL. Their versatility means they can also be repurposed for baby item storage later.

• Avocado Case Cover for AirPods: Because amidst all the serious preparations and discomforts, we all need something undeniably cute in our lives! This adorable avocado case makes me smile every single time I reach for my AirPods. It’s a tiny dose of joy that reminds me to find happiness in the little things, even when my body feels anything but cute and convenient.

Third Trimester Food Cravings & Aversions

Since everyone is always curious, here’s an honest rundown of my current food cravings and aversions during this final trimester. It’s been quite the interesting culinary journey!

Food Cravings:

ALL. THE. SWEETS! Seriously, I cannot get enough cookies, cake, and ice cream at the moment. It feels like my body is constantly demanding a sugar fix, perhaps for a quick energy boost or just pure comfort. And of course, Nutella – but only by the spoonful, straight from the jar. Interestingly, despite these intense sweet cravings, I haven’t been as hungry for actual meals, so my portions have become noticeably smaller. This wasn’t what I anticipated, but it makes perfect sense when you consider how little room my belly has left as Baby takes up more and more space. The biggest, most persistent cravings, however, are for all the “forbidden” foods: fresh sushi and a perfectly cooked medium-rare steak. Knowing that the end of pregnancy is in sight, and these culinary delights are within reach, only intensifies my desire for them. The countdown to a sushi dinner is real!

Food Aversions:

My biggest aversion right now? Anything overtly healthy, laugh out loud. The mere idea of a crisp salad or a plate of steamed vegetables doesn’t really pique my interest. My palate is strongly leaning towards hearty, fatty, and sweet foods. It’s an unusual phase for someone who usually enjoys a balanced diet, but I’ve learned to listen to my body and indulge (in moderation) where I can. While I know the importance of nutrition, sometimes, comfort food is the only food that sounds appealing. I’m focusing on getting enough protein and trying to sneak in some healthy elements where possible, but mostly, I’m just trying to survive these cravings until Baby arrives.

The third trimester truly is a unique blend of extreme discomfort, profound anticipation, and surprising small joys. While it can be challenging, remember to be kind to yourself, prioritize comfort, and savor these final weeks before your little one makes their grand appearance. You’ve got this, mama!