What may be changing
Your body
The physical work of pregnancy may make daily support more important.
Week34
Third trimester
Build the postpartum handoff
This field guide uses build the postpartum handoff to connect body changes, development, the care conversation, and practical preparation.
A cautious view
Development
The fetus continues to grow and prepare for life after birth.
Appointment lens
Care this week
Ask who handles maternal concerns and who handles newborn concerns after delivery.
Prepare next
Useful actions
- Assign meals, laundry, messages, rides, and medication pickup.
- Pack essential items without treating the bag as a perfection project.
- Write a one-page preference summary.
- Confirm care for pets, children, work, and transportation.
Ask your care team
Questions to bring
- Who do I call after birth with a maternal concern?
- How should I contact the birth unit or on-call clinician?
- What happens if labor begins early?
- Which preferences should be documented now?
Share the work
For a support person
- Know where key documents and supplies are.
- Discuss how to advocate calmly if plans change.
Sources and review