4 Things You DON’T Need To Do In Your Third Trimester
Are you in your third trimester of pregnancy? Are you in your first or second trimester?
You may have heard tons of advice on things to do while in your third trimester. (rest, meditate, etc.)
But do you know the things you really don't have to do?
These are some things that you may think are unavoidable, but you really can (and might want to) avoid these things!
1. Getting Cervical Checks
Do you have a provider who routinely checks your cervix at 35, 37, 39, or 40 weeks pregnant? Did you know you can decline this? Getting a cervical check at a prenatal appointment does NOT tell you when you are "more likely" to go into labor. You could be a 3 for weeks or be a 0 and go into labor that night.
2. Talk About Induction
If your provider brings up scheduling induction "just in case" that tells you they don't trust the process of birth, and getting into these conversations (or going ahead and scheduling an induction) can affect your personal thoughts about when you will go into labor! Due dates are really, really just an estimate. Your baby will come when your baby is ready, and feel free to tell your provider that if necessary!
3. Listen to Traumatic Birth Stories
For some reason at the end of pregnancy, some people want to tell you about everything that "went wrong" with their birth. You don't have to listen to that! It will effect your positive birth thoughts! You can change the subject, ask them to please stop, or simply leave the room. Get creative!
4. Ultrasound to Check Baby's Size
A late ultrasound is only 50% accurate in determining baby's size. If it predicts you have a big or small baby, that can cause your provider to think about more intervention, and mess with your thoughts about your capability to birth your baby. Remember- your baby is the perfect size for your body! *Ideally you have a provider you trust will only suggest ultrasound if there is a true medical reason, but it's always your choice!
Do you see a theme here? You need to protect your thoughts fiercely at the end of pregnancy! Fill your thoughts with positivity and avoid those situations that may cause you to doubt your truly powerful birthing abilities.
If you don't know me, I'm Carlee! I'm a Childbirth Educator and Doula and my passion is to help you have an empowering birth experience! If you don't already, follow along on IG for more short and sweet birth tips!
And if you're ready for a full childbirth class to help you prepare for your empowering and transformative unmedicated birth- Birth Academy is coming soon! You can learn more and join the waitlist here.