Packing, lifting and nesting: tips for moving while pregnant
Moving homes is a pivotal moment, especially when coupled with the anticipation of a new family member. As a mother of four, I have moved three times when pregnant and each time wasn’t easy – but it was doable! This guide aims to ease the journey for you and help make the transition to your new home a more comfortable one during pregnancy. Here are our tried and tested tips for safely moving while pregnant.
Plan to move at the right time
Moving when pregnant requires thoughtful timing, particularly to accommodate common pregnancy symptoms such as abdomen pain during pregnancy and aching back during pregnancy. During the first trimester, the aches and fatigue can be challenging, so it’s essential to plan your move when you have the most energy.
I’ve always moved during my third trimester and I found it really difficult because I was too heavy to help anyone and I was exhausted. However, many pregnant women have said moving during their first trimester was the most difficult because of the extreme fatigue and nausea they felt throughout. The second trimester is often the sweet spot for such a significant change because you’ll have more energy and mobility to take on the mammoth task of moving house.
While moving is often the last thing on your mind, the excitement of creating a new space for your growing family can be both invigorating and overwhelming. But, is moving harmful during pregnancy? It doesn’t have to be! Here are some tips on moving during each trimester:
Moving while pregnant – first trimester
It’s vital to avoid heavy lifting and minimise the risk of abdominal cramps during pregnancy. Prioritise rest and hydration to mitigate aches during pregnancy, and delegate tasks where you can. You can create a detailed checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked during this delicate time
Moving while pregnant – second trimester
Take advantage of the typically higher energy levels, but proceed with care to avoid abdominal tightness during pregnancy. Start by packing non-essential items early and book a trusted moving company to handle the logistics. (For those moving to Florida, go for a trusted Florida moving company like Solomon & Sons Relocation Services, known for their reliability and family-friendly services).
Moving while pregnant – third trimester
Your moving day plan should focus on comfort and safety to prevent ab pain during pregnancy. Finalise details with your movers and make sure they are aware of your condition. Considering preparing an “essentials” bag with items like maternity wear, avoiding any abnormal pain during pregnancy from last-minute rushes.
Create your moving timeline
Once you have a clearer picture of your ideal moving window, draft a detailed timeline that includes the following:
Research phase
Allocate time to research a reputable moving company that accommodates your pregnancy needs. This research should also extend to healthcare facilities in your new area to ensure a smooth transition of medical care.
Packing phase
Begin packing non-essential items early on, gradually moving to daily-use items as the moving date approaches. Consider tagging boxes with priority levels for unpacking, keeping in mind the items you’ll need immediately upon arrival, like maternity clothes, baby essentials, and important documents.
A good moving company can provide valuable services such as packing and unpacking, significantly reducing the burden on the family. Ensure the mover you choose has experience with family/pregnancy relocations and check their reviews from other families to gauge their suitability for your needs.
Moving week
Designate the week before the move to double-check arrangements with your moving company, confirm travel plans, and ensure your new home is ready for your arrival. It’s also a good time to assemble a small “essentials” bag that will stay with you, containing items you’ll need during the move and the first few days in your new home.
Post-move care
After the move, plan for a week of minimal activity to rest and acclimate to your new surroundings. Schedule a check-up in your new location to ensure continuity of prenatal care without interruption. We will talk more about the post-move part below.
Stay flexible
While having a plan is crucial, it’s equally important to remain flexible. Pregnancy is unpredictable, and circumstances may change. Keep communication lines open with your moving company to adjust plans if needed and emphasise the importance of choosing a service that offers flexibility and understanding of your unique situation.
Packing tips when you have a baby on board – how to move while pregnant –
Packing when pregnant, especially when you have other children, can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can also be an opportunity for everyone to be involved in the move. Start by making a detailed inventory of your belongings to keep track of what you have. Encourage family members to pack a personal box with their favourite toys, books, and comfort items, explaining that these will be with them in their new room. Emphasise safety when packing with children around, keeping hazardous materials out of reach and considering child-proofing essential items during the packing process.
Prioritise safety by breaking down tasks into manageable parts. Professional packing services and storage, offered by your chosen moving services, can significantly reduce the physical strain, allowing you to focus on your wellbeing and the excitement of anticipating your baby’s arrival.
Saying goodbye
It’s not just about moving to a new place, goodbyes are an essential part of the moving process, so you can experience closure from your old place. Organise a small farewell gathering with close friends and family to celebrate the memories made. If you have other children give them a chance to visit their favourite places one last time and encourage them to take photos or collect mementoes for a memory book. These activities can help you all process your feelings about the move and look forward to making new memories.
Setting up your new home
When you reach your new home, prioritise creating spaces that offer comfort and tranquillity. The nursery, your bedroom, and living areas should top the list, so you can foster a nurturing environment from the get-go. This setup phase is not just about unpacking boxes but laying the foundation for your family’s future memories.
Keeping a routine
Maintain a consistent routine if you have other children can significantly help them adapt to the changes that come with moving. Try to keep mealtimes, bedtimes, and other daily activities as regular as possible during the move. If your family had a game night every Friday or a special weekend breakfast tradition, continue those in your new home. Adjustments may be necessary, but the familiarity of routine provides a sense of stability.
Finding new schools/nurseries/childminding
The search for a new childcare if you need it, should begin well before the move, especially if the quality of education is a top priority for your family. Use online resources, reviews, and rankings to narrow down your options, and if possible, visit the places personally to get a feel for the environment and culture. Once you’ve made your choice, make sure all necessary enrollments are completed in advance to avoid any last-minute rush. If you need to, prepare your child for the transition by discussing what the new school might be like and emphasising the positives of making new friends and learning new things.
Exploring the new neighbourhood
Once you’ve settled into your new home, take the time to explore your new surroundings. This could mean taking walks, visiting local parks, finding the nearest library, or discovering a new favourite restaurant. Getting to know the neighbourhood not only helps everyone feel more at home but also provides opportunities to meet new people and begin integrating into the community. Consider joining local clubs, sports teams, or other activities that match your interests to further establish connections and roots in your new area.
Health care transition
A smooth healthcare transition is paramount when moving while pregnant. Research and establish connections with healthcare providers in your new area ahead of the move. This forward-thinking approach ensures you have immediate access to prenatal care in your new community and offers you peace of mind during this transitional period.
Listen to your body
Throughout the moving process, listen to your body’s cues. Embrace the support offered by your moving team, so you can maintain a focus on health and relaxation. This support system is not just logistical but also emotional, underscoring the importance of selecting a moving company attuned to the needs of expecting families. Stop what you’re doing when you experience the following and consider speaking with your healthcare provider if you’re concerned:
- Lower abdominal pain when moving while pregnant
- Pain when moving legs while pregnant
- Sharp pains when moving while pregnant
- Aching hips during pregnancy
Emotional support
Moving while pregnant can stir up a mix of feelings, from excitement to a bit of worry. It’s important to talk about what you’re going through with people close to you and start making connections in your new area. These steps create a strong circle of support that can really help during this big change.
Final thoughts
Moving while you’re expecting certainly comes with its challenges, yet with careful planning, a trustworthy mover, and a circle of support, it can turn into a delightful part of growing your family. Every move you make is a step forward into settling into a new home where you’ll bring your newest family member into the world.
FAQ
Is it bad to move while pregnant?
Moving isn’t inherently bad during pregnancy, but it does require extra care. It’s crucial to avoid heavy lifting and high-stress activities, which can put both you and your baby at risk. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant decisions about moving during pregnancy.
Is moving furniture safe while pregnant?
Other questions asked were:
- Is it safe to move furniture while pregnant?
- Is it ok to move stuff while pregnant?
- Should I move while pregnant?
It’s generally recommended to avoid moving furniture while pregnant, especially as your pregnancy progresses. Heavy lifting can strain your muscles and increase the risk of injury. If moving furniture is necessary, seek help and use proper lifting techniques to protect yourself.
I am moving while 8 months pregnant. Do you have any tips on how I can move comfortably without affecting the baby please?
At 8 months, it’s crucial to prioritize your comfort and safety. Avoid lifting heavy objects, stay hydrated, and take frequent breaks. Arrange for professional movers, if possible, and communicate your needs clearly to those helping you.
I have a high-risk pregnancy. Can I move while pregnant?
High-risk pregnancies require special consideration. Discuss your moving plans with your healthcare provider to understand the risks and get personalized advice. It might be recommended to postpone moving if it involves significant physical strain or stress.
Some religions have views about moving during pregnancy. What are these religious reasons for not shifting house during pregnancy?
Other questions asked were:
- Is it bad to move around alot while pregnant?
Some beliefs hold that moving during certain stages of pregnancy could bring bad luck or negatively impact the mother and child’s wellbeing. The specifics can vary greatly across different cultures and religions. It’s essential to consult with community elders or religious leaders for guidance if this is a concern.
Can sudden movements cause miscarriage?
Sudden movements themselves are unlikely to cause miscarriage. Most miscarriages occur because of underlying issues, such as chromosomal abnormalities in the foetus. However, you should still be cautious with your activities. You should avoid sudden, jerky, or high-impact movements, especially if they strain the abdomen or could lead to falls or injury. It’s always best to discuss any concerns about physical activity with a healthcare provider, as they can offer personalised advice based on your pregnancy’s specifics and any potential risks.
I am moving states while pregnant. What do I need to know before I move?
When moving states, consider the timing of your move and its proximity to your due date, transferring your medical records, establishing care with a new healthcare provider, and understanding your new state’s maternity leave policies and health coverage options.
What positions should you avoid while pregnant?
Avoid positions that involve heavy lifting, bending over for prolonged periods, or lying flat on your back, especially after the first trimester. These can reduce blood flow to the baby and put unnecessary strain on your body.
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