Third trimester checklist: what to do in weeks 28–40

The last three months can be both exciting and tiring. The aim of this list is to move the load from your head onto paper. For your baby’s development, see the third trimester article in the guide.

Health: visits and checks

• The 3rd antenatal visit is between weeks 28 and 32 in the Ministry guideline, and the 4th between weeks 36 and 38. At these visits your baby’s position, the way of giving birth and signs of labour are discussed.
• If your doctor thinks it necessary, they may plan a growth scan, repeat blood tests or heart-rate monitoring. If you are Rh negative, ask about the related precautions separately.
• Find out about your chosen hospital’s registration and pre-admission process.
• Write your doctor’s notes about the birth process and phone numbers in one place.
• If payments, insurance or authorisations are needed, sort them out early.

Food and movement

• Small, frequent meals, plenty of fluids and fibre can ease digestion in the last months.
• Gentle walks, stretching and, if your doctor agrees, birth-preparation exercises can help.
• You can use the Kegel programme in the app.
• Using pillows to support side-lying sleep helps many people.

Work and rights

• Maternity leave is 24 weeks: 8 before and 16 after birth. With a doctor’s approval you may be able to work up to 2 weeks before birth. Confirm durations and the application with your HR department and e-Devlet.
• Gather the documents needed for reports and leave requests.
• If you will hand over your work, prepare a short handover note.

Preparation and shopping

• Pack your hospital bag before week 35. The hospital bag list in the app is enough to start with.
• Write your birth plan and share it with your partner.
• Have the car seat fitted; you need it for the trip home from hospital.
• Wash the baby’s first clothes and set up the sleeping space.
• Freezing meals for after the birth is very useful.

Emotional care

• Fear of birth is very common. Instead of “what will I do?”, ask “whom do I contact and how?”
• If you want to follow your baby’s movements, you can use the kick counter.
• Saying no to visitors and invitations is your right; put rest first.

For your partner

• Keep your phone charged and try the route to the hospital in advance.
• Keep the bag and documents ready by the door.
• Read the birth plan together and list questions for the doctor.

Frequently asked questions

When should I pack my hospital bag? Many people prefer to pack before week 35, since an early birth is always possible. Keeping the bag near the door reduces the rush.

Do I have to write a birth plan? No, but clarifying your thoughts beforehand makes conversations easier. A plan is a flexible draft; if things change during labour, your team will reassess with you.

Which movements help in the last weeks? Gentle walking, stretching and breathing exercises help many people. If you have an antenatal class, it is useful at this stage.

How do I keep track of my baby’s movements? Every baby has its own rhythm. Knowing your baby’s usual pattern makes it easier to notice a change, and the kick counter can help. If you notice a clear decrease, contact your doctor without waiting.

When to contact your doctor

• Regular contractions that get closer together and stronger
• Fluid leaking or bleeding
• A clear decrease in your baby’s movements
• Severe headache, vision changes, sudden swelling or pain in the upper abdomen

Call your doctor in these cases; in an emergency call 112 (in Turkey) or your local emergency number. This post is for information; the right plan for you is made with your doctor.