Third Trimester Checklist for Lahore Moms: Growth Scan, CTG, Birth-Plan & Hospital Bag

The third trimester of pregnancy is an exciting yet overwhelming time for moms in Lahore. Between weeks 28 to 40, your baby is growing rapidly, and your body is preparing for labour. This period requires regular antenatal checks, a practical birth plan, and readiness for delivery. To help you stay stress-free and confident, here’s a comprehensive third trimester checklist covering growth scans, CTG, final doctor visits, birth plan essentials, and what to pack in your hospital bag.

1. Schedule Your Growth Scan (Week 28–34)

The growth scan is an ultrasound done in the third trimester to assess your baby’s well-being. It checks:

• Baby’s position (head down, breech, transverse)
• Placenta health and position
• Amniotic fluid levels
• Estimated weight and growth percentile
• Blood flow in the umbilical cord

Why it matters in Lahore: Many women consult private hospitals in DHA, Gulberg, or Johar Town for advanced ultrasound facilities. Ensure your chosen hospital offers Doppler ultrasound if needed.

Tip: Book your growth scan between weeks 32–34 for the most accurate predictions about birth weight and delivery planning.

2. CTG (Cardiotocography) in the Final Weeks

From week 36 onward, many obstetricians recommend CTG (Non-Stress Test). This test records your baby’s heartbeat and movements along with uterine contractions.

• Normal CTG: Shows your baby is well oxygenated.
• Abnormal CTG: May indicate distress, prompting earlier delivery or close monitoring.

In Lahore, CTG is standard in maternity hospitals such as Evercare, Doctors Hospital, and Shalamar. Always keep your CTG records handy for your doctor.

 

3. Regular Antenatal Check-Ups

During the third trimester:

• Visit your doctor every 2 weeks until 36 weeks, then weekly until delivery.
• Monitor blood pressure, urine protein, and blood sugar.
• Watch for signs of pre-eclampsia (headache, swelling, high BP).
• Ask about vaccinations (e.g., Tdap for whooping cough protection).

4. Create Your Birth Plan

A birth plan is a written outline of your preferences for labour and delivery. While flexibility is key, it helps you feel prepared. Consider including:

• Preferred mode of delivery (normal delivery if possible, C-section if necessary)
• Pain relief choices (epidural, gas & air, natural methods)
• Labour support person (husband, mother, sister)
• Immediate skin-to-skin contact with baby
• Delayed cord clamping, if medically safe
• Feeding preferences (exclusive breastfeeding vs mixed)

Why it helps: In busy Lahore hospitals, a birth plan ensures your wishes are respected while allowing doctors to act quickly if emergencies arise.

5. Hospital Bag Checklist for Lahore Moms

Pack by week 36 so you’re never caught unprepared. Hospital in Lahore may provide some items, but it’s best to have your own.

For Mom:

• CNIC, doctor’s notes, antenatal records
• Comfortable maternity gown, slippers, shawl
• Nursing bras, maternity pads, underwear
• Toiletries (toothbrush, hairbrush, soap, towel)
• Phone charger, water bottle, snacks
• Pillow or nursing pillow (optional)

For Baby:

• 3–4 baby vests and sleepsuits
• Baby cap, mittens, socks
• Receiving blanket, swaddle
• Newborn diapers, wipes
• Baby toiletries (mild soap, lotion)

For Birth Partner:

• Change of clothes, snacks, cash for hospital cafeteria
• List of emergency contacts

6. Prepare Your Home

• Set up baby’s crib or bassinet.
• Wash baby clothes in mild detergent.
• Stock up on newborn essentials (diapers, wipes, feeding supplies).
• Arrange postnatal help (maid, family, or nanny).

7. Watch for Labour Signs

Know when to go to the hospital:

• Contractions every 5 minutes lasting 30–60 seconds
• Waters breaking (clear or green fluid)
• Vaginal bleeding
• Decreased baby movements

8. Nutrition & Self-Care in the Third Trimester

• Eat iron-rich foods (meat, spinach, lentils) to prevent anaemia.
• Take prenatal vitamins with folic acid, calcium, and vitamin D.
• Stay hydrated (8–10 glasses of water).
• Practice breathing exercises and gentle walks.
• Sleep on your side with a pillow between knees for comfort.

9. Mental Preparation

Pregnancy can feel overwhelming. Reduce anxiety by:

• Attending antenatal classes (some Lahore hospitals offer them).
• Practicing meditation or prayer for calmness.
• Talking to other moms or support groups.

10. Final Financial & Practical Planning

• Confirm hospital package cost (normal delivery vs C-section).
• Clarify what’s included: doctor’s fee, epidural, nursery care, lab charges.
• Keep cash and a credit/debit card ready for emergencies.
• Arrange transportation to the hospital (plan for traffic in Lahore).

Conclusion

The third trimester is your final preparation phase before meeting your baby. With the right checklists for scans, CTG, birth plan, and hospital bag, Lahore moms can feel confident and stress-free by taking services from Algyna. Remember, flexibility is key—sometimes babies arrive earlier or labour takes unexpected turns. Trust your doctor, listen to your body, and stay prepared.