The last few weeks of pregnancy can feel like an emotional rollercoaster—excitement, impatience, exhaustion, and maybe a little anxiety all bundled together. During this time, focusing on self care became essential for my well-being. I went past my due date with both of my boys. My days were spent with 28 5th graders and by the time I got home, I was miserable and emotional and totally wanting the babies to come! There were so many things outside of my control. Knowing my personality doesn’t cope well with that fact, I had to figure out what I could control.
I thought I would put together some ideas to help you cope with the remaining weeks of pregnancy, especially if you’re emotionally and physically ready to give birth!
1. Create Comfort in Your Daily Routine
At this point, it’s all about finding ways to feel good. The days may feel long, but focusing on small pleasures might make a difference.
Action items:
- Prioritize rest. You might not sleep deeply, but taking breaks, using a pregnancy pillow, or indulging in naps helps recharge your body. If there is any way you can change your work schedule, DO!
- Eat nourishing foods. A balanced diet keeps energy up and supports your baby’s final growth spurts. Think protein-packed snacks, hydration, and foods rich in iron and fiber. Have you seen the science behind eating dates? Do that too!
- Move your body gently. Light stretching, short walks, or prenatal yoga can boost circulation, ease discomfort, and help with sleep.
- Indulge in self-care. Take a warm (not too hot) bath, listen to music, or get a prenatal massage—whatever makes you feel pampered.
2. Prep for Birth and Postpartum Life
Instead of fixating on when labor will start, shift focus to the exciting preparations that are in your hands.
Action items:
- Pack your hospital bag. Double-check essentials like snacks, comfy clothes, baby’s first outfit, and any relaxation aids.
- Prepare meals in advance. A stocked freezer with easy-to-heat meals makes postpartum life smoother. Even cooking some chicken and putting in the freezer can make those first meals at home easier! (Think chicken salad, chicken tacos, BBQ chicken sandwiches, etc.)
- Review birth preferences. If you have a birth plan, glance over it and discuss it with your support team. And don’t forget to practice your relaxation skills!
- Set up postpartum essentials. Think nursing station, diaper stash, cozy spots for rest—small preparations help make recovery easier.
3. Shift Your Mindset and Enjoy the Moment
While it’s easy to get caught up in waiting, this is also a beautiful, fleeting time—your last moments before meeting baby. I had to come up with some mantras to get me through the finals days. “My baby knows when he needs to be born.” “41 weeks is full term in many parts of the world.”
Action items:
- Celebrate yourself! You’ve grown an entire human. That’s incredible. Remind yourself how strong and capable you are.
- Journal or take photos. Capture memories of this final stretch so you can look back on them someday.
- Connect with loved ones. Whether it’s chats with your partner, family, or friends, surround yourself with positive energy.
- Practice gratitude. Each day, find small things to appreciate—whether it’s a gentle baby kick, a cozy blanket, or a moment of quiet.
- Ignore Negative Comments. Even if your family and friends mean well by saying, “Isn’t your baby here yet?” try to avoid seeing them. (Yes, this sounds harsh, but I had to avoid the teacher’s lounge during my last weeks of pregnancy so I wouldn’t accidentally yell at a well-meaning colleague! Ha!)
While the waiting game feels never-ending, this time matters. You’re doing an amazing job, and soon enough, you’ll be holding your baby in your arms. Until then, embrace the little moments, take care of yourself, and trust that everything is unfolding exactly as it should.
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