After sharing my first trimester and second trimester essentials, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty with a few items that are helping to get me through the home stretch of pregnancy — aka the third trimester.

As always, everyone’s experience varies, but I thought it’d be fun to share a few of my favorite items for making life just a little bit easier during these final few weeks…

1. Maternity Swimsuit

One thing I’ve discovered this trimester is that the amount of time you’ll want to spend in the pool is directly proportional to how far along you are in your pregnancy, which is why a good maternity swimsuit is essential.

I sized up and purchased this one from Coeur Sports for days I want to let the belly breathe, but also received an unused hand-me-down Liz Lange maternity swimsuit (mine pictured above) from a friend that’s been my go-to on cold mornings or days when I want a little more modesty at the pool.

2. Chiropractic Work

As your body preps itself to be able to push your baby out, hormones help loosen related ligaments; the upside is that this helps make room, but the downside is that it’s super easy to throw your spine and pelvis out of proper alignment.

Based on a recommendation from my prenatal movement coach, I’ve recently started regular sessions with a local practitioner who specializes in prenatal care — not only has it worked wonders on my tweaky SI joint, but I’m also hoping it’ll encourage Baby H to move into a head-down position.

3. Acupuncture

Even before pregnancy, I was all about exploring alternative medicines, but it’s especially important now if it could help me achieve optimal health while Baby H is developing at his or her different stages of growth and differentiation.

I’ve been going about once a month for the past year, but now that I’m in the third trimester I made the switch to another local resource who specializes in women’s health in the hopes that I can bake this little bun well and, maybe just maybe, persuade Baby H to flip.

4. TUMS

Almost every pregnant woman’s best friend, you’ll be popping these puppies like candy come the last few months — or as soon as your expanding uterus starts to encroach upon precious stomach space.

Of course, you don’t want to overdo it so be sure to discuss any supplementation with your doctor first; but assuming you get the go ahead, take as directed to help soothe your poor esophagus from the retaliation of your squashed stomach.

5. Hypnobirth App

Created by an experienced practicing Midwife and hypnotherapist, this app was recommended by a friend who has been using it to help keep herself calm, relaxed and confident as delivery day draws nearer.

And because these last few weeks seem to be flying by, I’m making more of an effort to be mindful and enjoy the moment — to take time to sit down, do nothing and just be with my growing baby without distractions — so we’ll see if this helps!

6. All. The. Butters.

This was a second trimester must-have, but it’s well worth mentioning again now that the belly is swelling to epic proportions and starting to itch and pull in odd places.

I’ve been alternating Farmaesthetics Nourishing Herbal Cream, Booda Butter and The Spoiled Mama’s Tummy Butter for Stretch Marks in heavy rotation after each shower in the hopes that they’ll help keep my skin elastic enough to accommodate Baby H as s/he packs on the pounds.

7. All. The. Fiber.

As regular as I was before and during the majority of my pregnancy, there are days now when my digestive system comes to a grinding halt — yep, there’s no such thing as TMI when we’re talking pregnancy — so the best defense is a good offense when it comes to preventing constipation.

When I’m not popping probiotics, prunes or other high-fiber whole foods, I’ll occasionally sneak a pack of my new favorite treat when I’m craving sweets but want to try to steer clear of the super unhealthy stuff.

8. Support Gear

Like we need another piece of clothing to struggle into while pregnant, right?! But hear me out here…support gear is highly underrated when it comes to keeping yourself comfortable while dragging around an extra 25-35 pounds in your midsection.

I’m still using my Blanqi BODYSTYLER® Maternity Underbust Belly Support Tanks daily (use my referral link to get a code for 20% off!), and even though I’m not running, I’ve started using my heavy-duty maternity support belt to help keep things reinforced during walks and other activities.

9. Mama-to-Be Teas

When it comes time to kick up those (now-swollen) feet at the end of the day, I can’t think of a better way to relax than with a good book and a hot cup of tea.

Earth Mama Angel Baby’s Mama-To-Be Sampler just so happens to be one of my favorites — not only is is a local Oregon company, but it’s also got a box of its four best-selling varieties geared specifically for us queasy, heartburn-prone, anxiety-ridden and/or waiting-for-the-big-day preggos.

10. Maternity Activewear

You may have already seen my post on Mumberry, which makes super-legit maternity activewear, thanks to the brand’s signature Mumband™, which is built into all of their apparel and provides crucial belly and back support.

But another staple in my gym-going attire has been Ingrid & Isabel’s Active Legging with Crossover Panel, which was recommended by another pregnant friend; these pants are beyond comfy with thick material, a good fit and a stomach panel that stays put — definitely worth checking out!

What are your must-haves for the third trimester of pregnancy? Any other tips to share?