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The Definitive Second Trimester Checklist
You have finally made it to your second trimester! The past few weeks went by faster than you thought, and you are slowly beginning to settle into your new, growing body. The second trimester is everyone's favorite because the first trimester's nausea and morning sickness fade away in most women. The gigantic belly and all the discomfort that comes with it are still a little way away.
Also Read- Your First Trimester Checklist
Since these golden months offer you a lot of energy and excitement to go around, we think it's the best time to plan a couple of things before you hit the third trimester or the baby arrives. So here's the checklist we believe all moms in their second trimester need to take a look at.
1. Share the Good News
Most women wait out the first trimester before telling their friends and family. This is because the first trimester is usually the trickiest to carry through successfully. Most miscarriages also happen around this time.
But now that you're through to the second trimester, it's time to spill the beans! Whether it's via social media or a surprise party, now is the right time to tell every soul.
2. Eat Healthily
We hope you are already taking excellent care of yourself, but now is the time to chuck the habit if you are still stuck on takeout options. You probably have your appetite back after combating morning sickness. Stock up your pantry with wholesome and nutritious foods. Simplify your menu by making a food chart and stick to it. These habits will not only keep you and your baby healthy but also save you from spending unnecessary time in the kitchen.
Also Read: Pregnancy Nutrition Guide- What to Eat and What to Avoid
3. Invest in Some Great Maternity Clothes
It's a joy to finally see the actual baby bump. Most women keep looking at the bellies forcing themselves to see one pretty early on in their pregnancies, but the second trimester is when things actually start to become noticeable. You will find your old clothes don't do your body justice anymore. This is the sign that you need to buy maternity clothes. You don't need much, just buy pregnancy tops, maternity leggings, maternity pants, and right maternity lingerie. Dressing well should never be sacrificed.
4. Plan For Child Care and Return-to-work
Now that everyone knows about your good news, it's perfect time to ask your boss for maternity leave and plan your return to work if that's what you want to do. It also isn't too early to plan for childcare, which tends to book up far in advance.
5. Plan a Holiday
We call it the babymoon. This is your last holiday or vacation before you officially become parents. Although booze is a big no-no, you can splurge on tasty mocktails and have the time of your life. Life is going to change so fast after the baby comes; trust us, you need this.
6. Start Thinking About A Name.
What's in a name? Your baby will be here sooner than you think, and it's going to need a name. All the adorable nicknames will have to stop at some point. Think of a real-world name and if you have already done that, start narrowing down from the list of 150 baby names you made.
7. Sort Out Your Postpartum Budget
Whether you are going back to work after the baby comes or not, your finances will be different from now on. It's not just diapers. Raising a baby requires careful financial planning, and it's best to get to it as soon as you can. The third trimester is usually too close to the baby's arrival to think clearly about fiscal matters, so we suggest you do it now.
8. Book Yourself into a Workout Regimen
We know you have been toying with this idea for a while. Seriously though, get into those maternity workout clothes and start working out. Whether it's prenatal yoga or light bodyweight exercises, keep your body moving during these months. It's not only to put off the pregnancy weight but to assist in childbirth.
Also Read: Coconut Water in Pregnancy – Benefits, Side Effects & More
9. Savor Every Moment and Have Fun
We are down to our last and most crucial point. Take things slow and enjoy every moment of them. Often in the rush of so many new things happening, one forgets to enjoy the experience. The birth of a child is an exceptional one. Live day to day and write everything down. This will be a brilliant keepsake in the coming years.