Pregnancy checklist

We’re here to guide you and your partner through a healthy pregnancy.

Download the pregnancy checklist

First trimester - Week 1 to week 12

Go to the doctor

A doctor will confirm if your partner is pregnant, determine their due date and help plan regular antenatal check-ups. The first antenatal check-up usually takes place between week 10 and week 16.

Attend first-trimester scans and screening tests

The first ultrasound usually takes place between week 8 and week 12, while first-trimester screening blood tests are carried out around week 11.

Stop cleaning the cat litter tray

To reduce the risk of toxoplasmosis, you should take over cleaning the litter tray while your partner is pregnant. Wear gloves while cleaning the litter tray and while gardening in in case you come into contact with infected soil.

Manage morning sickness

Morning sickness symptoms such as nausea and vomiting can be managed by helping your partner to stay hydrated, get plenty of rest and eat smaller frequent meals or snacks that are high in carbohydrates and low in fat, such as crackers, bread, rice and pasta.

Focus on health

This is a time where you and your partner can work together to support their health during pregnancy. Your partner can enjoy a balanced diet during pregnancy by selecting ingredients packed with health-promoting vitamins and minerals. A pregnancy multivitamin, such as Elevit Pre-conception & Pregnancy, alongside Elevit DHA & Choline Pregnancy can help them meet their increased nutritional needs.

Your partner should stop smoking if they haven’t already – their doctor can share advice and treatments to help them quit – and avoid drinking alcohol or limit their intake while pregnant and breastfeeding.

In pregnancy, caffeine intake should be limited to 200mg per day, which is about two espressos or 3-5 cups of tea. Opt for decaf options where possible and remember that caffeine can also be found in chocolate, energy drinks and some soft drinks.

Your partner should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week to boost their overall health. This can include a brisk walk, cycling or swimming.

It is also important to look after your mental health during pregnancy to best support your growing family. If you or your partner are in need of some extra help, you can reach out to one of the following support lines:

Lifeline 13 11 14
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
Headspace 1800 650 890
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support line 13 92 76

Check work leave conditions

Understanding both primary and secondary carer leave entitlements can help you plan ahead.

Claim Government financial benefits

There are several government-backed financial benefits you may be able to claim. Check your eligibility for Paid Parental Leave or the Family Tax Benefit with Services Australia or call Centrelink on 13 61 50.

Sign up for our free email guide

From the first trimester to your due date and beyond, we can guide you and your partner through the pregnancy journey. Sign up to receive our pregnancy newsletter every fortnight and discover week-by-week insights into how your baby is developing.

Second trimester - Week 13 to week 26

Attend second-trimester scans and screening tests

A blood test between weeks 15 and 18 and an ultrasound scan between weeks 18 and 20 will check your baby’s development.

Join a birth group

A birth group can provide emotional and practical support. Search sites like Facebook or a parenting website to find one in your local area.

Research hospitals and birth centres

Research and discuss birthing options with a doctor or midwife, and book a visit so that together you can make an informed choice.

Book antenatal classes

These present an opportunity to ask questions, discuss your feelings and meet local parents-to-be. Classes usually explain what to expect during labour, give you guidance on how to support your partner, outline various pain relief options, share pregnancy exercises and offer advice on feeding and settling your baby.

Consider your childcare options

Explore childcare options in your local area. Some book up in advance, so you might want to secure a place at your preferred day care or early childhood centre before your baby is born.

Third trimester - Week 27 to birth

Buy or borrow baby equipment

You'll need a pram and baby clothes as well as a cot and other nursery furniture. A sustainable option – and one that will save you and your partner money – is to borrow or inherit second hand items from friends, family or members of local parenting groups. Now’s also a good time to stock up on nappies and other essential supplies. And while your baby will sleep in your room for the first six months, you could start getting their room ready now.

Get the car baby capsule fitted

Children under six months must be secured in an approved, properly fitted rear-facing restraint when travelling by car, so follow child restraint guidelines to fit a baby capsule.

Pack your hospital bag

Check our list of what your partner needs to pack in their hospital bag and ensure it’s ready to go from week 32. For dads and birthing partners, you’ll want to pack some snacks, some warm clothes or a bathing suit so you can hop in the shower or bath to support your partner. You will also need to pack enclosed footwear in the event your partner has a caesarean.