The third trimester runs from week 28 to the birth, and it's when sleep and getting about take the most effort. The NHS advises going to sleep on your side from 28 weeks, and the Moon Pregnancy Pillow is one long curve that goes under your bump and between your knees without taking over the bed.
For the weight of your bump during the day, the Pregnancy Support Belt builds up in three parts as you grow, and the Pregnancy Support Band is one wide piece that's on in seconds. Compression socks are firmest at the ankle, for the swelling that's often worse by the evening.
Have your hospital bag ready by around 34 to 36 weeks. Hospital Bag Essentials covers your own postnatal basics: a nursing bra, high-waisted postpartum knickers, a peri bottle and a 0-3m sleepsuit for your baby.
Questions, answered.
What do I need for the third trimester?
Mostly things for sleep, support and the birth. A pregnancy pillow helps you stay on your side at night, a support belt or band takes some of your bump's weight during the day, and a nursing bra and postpartum knickers go in the hospital bag.
When should I pack my hospital bag?
Have it ready by around 34 to 36 weeks, or earlier if you're expecting twins or you've been told your baby may come early. Pack for yourself as well as the baby, because a nursing bra, high-waisted knickers and a peri bottle are the things that get forgotten.
Which side should I sleep on?
Either. The NHS advises going to sleep on your side, left or right, from 28 weeks, and if you wake up on your back, just turn onto your side again.
Should I choose the support belt or the band?
The Pregnancy Support Belt gives the most support later on, with a back section and a strap over the top of your bump. The Pregnancy Support Band is one wide piece that wraps under your bump and goes on in seconds, for lighter everyday support. Neither is a medical device, so if back or pelvic pain is bad, tell your midwife.
Which knickers should I pack for a C-section?
Ones that keep the waistband off your incision, and people differ on which way round they like it. Our C-section Knickers sit low, below the incision, and the high-waisted postpartum knickers in Hospital Bag Essentials come up above it.
