The final stretch of pregnancy can feel both exciting and mentally exhausting—and if you’ve ever found yourself saying, “Any day now… or maybe not?” you’re not alone. In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Roxanne and I sit down to talk through Roxanne’s third trimester update as she approaches the final weeks before meeting her baby.
From pregnancy denial and nesting energy to home birth preparation and even a little astrology-based labor prediction, this conversation is a real, honest look at what late pregnancy can actually feel like.
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The Mental Game of the Final Month
Roxanne is currently around 35–36 weeks pregnant, which puts her firmly in that “any day now… but probably not” phase. The last month of pregnancy is often the hardest mentally. You’re constantly wondering if today is the day, reading into every sensation, and living in this strange limbo where you can’t fully plan anything—but you also can’t fully rest.
Roxanne and I approach this phase a little differently. I tend to mentally unravel during the waiting, while Roxanne lives in a state of pregnancy denial right up until there is quite literally a baby in her arms. She prepares thoroughly—but emotionally, she assumes she’s not going into labor today. Every day.
Both approaches are valid, and honestly, both are forms of coping.
Astrology, Due Dates, and Labor Predictions
Because waiting is hard—and because I apparently enjoy chaos—I decided to look into Roxanne’s star chart to predict when she might go into labor. Obviously, this was done with the utmost scientific rigor (ChatGPT and moon phases).
Based on her previous births and lunar patterns, the strongest window looks like early January, particularly around the Cancer full moon. There’s also a secondary window a few days later. December? Possible, but unlikely—especially since she’s hoping for a January baby.
Is astrology a guarantee? Absolutely not. But when you’re in the final weeks of pregnancy, any sense of structure—or at least humor—helps pass the time.
Nesting, Decluttering, and Holiday Survival Mode
At this point, Roxanne’s primary plan for the next several weeks is nesting. And by nesting, she means decluttering her entire house. Not in a dramatic, one-day purge—but slowly and intentionally making space for a new baby.
This also coincides with the holidays, which adds another layer to third-trimester life. Instead of going all-out, she’s intentionally simplifying holiday expectations—easy traditions, minimal pressure, and flexibility if plans change.
One thing she always prioritizes is sibling gifts from the baby. It’s a small but meaningful way to help older siblings feel included, especially during such a big transition.
Preparing for a Home Birth: What’s Different This Time
Because Roxanne is planning a home birth, preparation looks very different than it did for her hospital births. There’s no showing up and being handed supplies—everything has to be ready ahead of time.
She’s gathering:
Home birth kits and midwife supplies
Birth pool, pump, and hose
An electric water heater to maintain water temperature
Protective coverings, towels, and extra chuck pads
We talked a lot about the logistics of using a birth pool and why so many people prefer it over a standard bathtub. The cushioning, space to move, and overall comfort can make a huge difference during labor—especially in longer or more intense phases.
And yes, we will be inflating the pool before labor starts to make sure it actually holds air. Learn from others’ mistakes.
Planning for the “What Ifs”
One of the most important parts of birth preparation—especially in community birth settings—is planning for the unexpected.
Roxanne and I have talked through:
What happens if labor progresses quickly
What to do if the midwife hasn’t arrived yet
When and how to call 911 if needed
How postpartum hemorrhage is managed
What neonatal resuscitation can look like
This isn’t about fear—it’s about confidence. Knowing the plan allows everyone to stay calm and grounded, even if birth doesn’t unfold exactly as expected.
As a doula and birth assistant, I also think it’s incredibly important for families to understand what newborn transition can look like. Most babies need nothing at all. Some need a little help. Seeing or discussing this before birth makes it far less scary if it happens.
Preparing for Postpartum—Mentally and Practically
Interestingly, Roxanne is actually looking forward to postpartum this time around—something she hasn’t always felt before. This will be her first winter postpartum, and the idea of hibernating, slowing down, and leaning into “cozy season” feels right.
She’s planned simple meals, postpartum supplies, and is fully prepared for her mom to take over food duties (which likely means seaweed soup for every meal). Sometimes the best postpartum plan is letting someone else care for you.
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Final Thoughts as We Wait
As Roxanne enters the final weeks of pregnancy, she’s prepared—but also flexible. She’s excited to meet her baby, aware that labor will be hard, and accepting that timing is ultimately out of her control.
The third trimester isn’t about perfection. It’s about readiness, rest, and trust—trust in your body, your support system, and your plan.
And for now, we wait. Watching moon phases, finishing last-minute preparations, and reminding ourselves that when the time comes… the baby will arrive exactly when they’re meant to.
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