10 Essential Things You Need To Include On Your Pregnancy To-Do List

Having a baby is one of the single most incredible and memorable experiences that you’ll ever have. But there's no denying that there's a lot to get done! A pregnancy to-do list will be a lifesaver when it comes to staying organised.

During your pregnancy, you’ll be flooded with emotions and excitement while preparing for the arrival of your newborn.

That’s why having a pregnancy to-do list is essential!

It's no secret that 'baby brain' is a real thing, and at some point in your pregnancy, you'll find yourself completely forgetting all of the things that you need to get done!

Creating a pregnancy checklist might seem a little over the top, but actually, it's something that many expecting mums find incredibly helpful.

To help you get started, we've put together a list of eight absolute essential things that you need to include on your pregnancy to-do list:

1. Schedule Doctor’s Appointments

Once you find out you’re pregnant, your first step should be to schedule a prenatal consultation with your doctor (after sharing the news with your partner, of course!).

Prenatal check-ups will become a regular part of your life to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy, so it really is important that you add them to your checklist!

At your doctor's appointment, you'll have the opportunity to ask any questions that you may have, as well as receive important information about your pregnancy.

Prenatal tests are also performed during these appointments, so you'll find out if there’s anything to be aware of.

2. Learn About Pregnancy and Labour

It's really important that you learn everything you need to know about what to expect during your pregnancy and labour so that you can be prepared when the time comes.

Your doctor or midwife may suggest some pregnancy books that you can read, or alternatively, there are plenty of online resources available to help you learn about the process.

Learn about the different options that are available to you during your labour, such as pain relief and natural birthing techniques. And knowing what to expect in your first, second and third trimester can also help take away some of the uncertainty.

Make it a part of your pregnancy checklist to read up and educate yourself on the topic of pregnancy and labour.

3. Make Financial Preparations for Parenthood

This isn't one of the most exciting and sparkly parts of your pregnancy, but it is an important one that we remind expecting parents time and time again.

Covering the financial side of things when you’re expecting is really important. You need to be prepared for any additional costs that come with having a baby, such as essential baby items, childcare and possible changes to your work hours.

Financial planning is absolutely essential for new parents, so make sure you include it in your pregnancy to-do list!

4. Eat Healthily and Exercise Regularly

Doing everything you can to ensure that you have a healthy pregnancy is so important.

Make sure that you're eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly – this is especially important during your second and third trimester.

And with pregnancy comes pregnancy cravings. There's no telling what you'll be wanting throughout your pregnancy – we've heard some pretty crazy cravings before! – just make sure to eat a healthy diet overall.

Some foods that are recommended for expecting mums include:

Many mums-to-be take folic acid supplements during pregnancy, too, which support your baby's development in the early stages.

Plus, exercising during pregnancy can help you stay active and fit. Talk to your doctor about the types of exercise that are safe for you during pregnancy.

Pelvic floor exercises are super important – they help to keep your pelvic floor muscles strong and support your baby during labour.

5. Join a Prenatal Class

For first-time mums, joining a prenatal class can be really beneficial.

These classes can help you to feel prepared for the labour process and a lot of the physical pain that comes with it. Plus, it's an opportunity to meet other expectant mums and learn from their experiences.

It's a great way to help reduce any nerves or anxieties that may come with having a baby, as you'll be learning from qualified professionals.

Childbirth classes are a great addition to your pregnancy checklist.

6. Get Adequate Sleep

Along with eating well and exercising, getting enough sleep is also important for your mental and physical health during pregnancy.

The recommended amount of sleep is 8 hours, and it's really crucial that you get this amount, as lack of sleep can have a negative effect on your pregnancy.

Make sure to wind down each night before bedtime and create a comfortable sleeping environment for yourself.

If you find it uncomfortable to sleep on your back, try propping yourself up with pillows or sleeping on your side.

Is It Worth Getting a Pregnancy Pillow?

A pregnancy pillow is really helpful in providing extra support. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be used to support the back, belly, neck and head.

Pregnancy pillows from Snuz are the first pregnancy pillow that actually guides you into the correct sleep position and has been developed by professionals to provide you with maximum comfort and support throughout your pregnancy.

They help to reduce any back pain that many pregnant women experience and also provide a sense of security throughout the night.

So, yes – it is worth investing in a pregnancy pillow if you're looking for additional comfort during your pregnancy.

Get your SnuzCurve Pregnancy Support Pillow here

7. Make a Baby Registry

A baby shower is one of the best parts of pregnancy for many parents. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate your baby's impending arrival with friends and family – and it's even better when you receive some gifts!

It can be a really big help when the people around you support you in getting everything you need for your baby. Creating a baby registry is the perfect way to let people know what you need or would like for your new arrival.

You can include anything big or small on your baby shower registry – from baby clothes to breast pumps and bottles.

Typically, a baby shower takes place four to six weeks before the baby's arrival due date, so this should be one of the final things on your pregnancy checklist.

Nonetheless, you can never be too prepared!

8. Prepare Your Baby's Nursery

Before your baby arrives, you'll want to set them up in their one-of-a-kind nursery. After all, the crib and other furniture items don't assemble themselves!

Planning and creating your baby's nursery is a really special part of the pregnancy journey. And it's something that many couples look forward to.

You should aim to have your baby’s nursery put together during your second trimester. This way, you can get involved in the process before your baby bump makes it difficult to do more physical tasks!

The essential nursery furniture items you'll need to buy are:

Coming up with nursery themes and ideas is really exciting, and there are endless options!

We love Scandi-inspired nurseries – they're timeless, modern and minimal, so you won't have to worry about your interior items going out of fashion.

Get All Your Nursery Furniture Essentials from Snuz

At Snuz, we have all the nursery furniture essentials you need to create your dream Scandi-inspired nursery.

From baby wardrobes to changing tables that double as dressers to a whole collection of cribs and cots, we have everything you need to create a nursery for your baby that not only looks good but will be comfortable and safe.

All of our nursery furniture pieces have been designed with your baby in mind, and our award-winning products are second to none.

You can browse our whole range of nursery furniture here

9. Pack a Hospital Bag

The biggest item on your last-minute pregnancy checklist should be packing a hospital bag.

You may want to pack two bags – one for you and one for the baby. Make sure to include all of the essentials that you'll need during your labour and delivery, as well as items that will make your stay more comfortable.

10. Connect with Your Baby (and Yourself!)

The best way to get ready for the arrival of your baby is to take some time to connect with them. After all, the bond between you and your baby starts during pregnancy.

Spend time talking to your baby, reading them stories or playing them some music. Your baby can even hear and recognise your voice from around week 15 of your pregnancy.

And taking time for yourself is just as important. Pregnancy can be one of the most exciting times in life, but it can also bring with it a lot of stress.

So make sure you take time out to relax, do something you enjoy and spend some quality time with your partner. Plan a weekly date night or weekend away, or just spend an evening watching a movie with takeout.

Summarising Your Pregnancy Checklist

Your pregnancy checklist is a way to make sure you're fully prepared for your baby's arrival.

From creating a registry to preparing the nursery and packing a hospital bag, there's plenty to think about!

But the most important thing is to take the time for yourself. Enjoy the time you have with your partner and connect with your baby.

And don't forget, Snuz is here to help make pregnancy and parenting a little easier, with all the essentials you need for your baby's nursery and support for your sleeping routine with our SnuzCurve pregnancy pillow.