The last few weeks of pregnancy can feel like a strange mix of excitement and impatience. Your hospital bag is packed, the tiny newborn baby clothes are ready, and you're probably counting down the days until you finally meet your baby.

But this is also a time when you may wonder, “What should I actually avoid now?”

You don't need to put your entire life on pause. But there are a few things worth being more careful about during the last weeks of pregnancy.

As your due date gets closer, your prenatal check-ups become especially important. Your doctor may monitor your blood pressure, baby's position, growth, movements and other aspects of your pregnancy.

Even if you're feeling perfectly fine, don't skip appointments or recommended tests.

2. Don't Overdo Physical Activity

Staying active during pregnancy can be beneficial when your pregnancy is uncomplicated and your doctor says it's safe.

But the final weeks aren't the time to suddenly start intense workouts, lift heavy things or push yourself beyond your usual limits.

Gentle walking, stretching and other activities recommended by your healthcare provider may be more appropriate and if an activity causes pain, dizziness, bleeding, leaking fluid or unusual discomfort, stop and contact your doctor.

Food safety remains important right until delivery. Avoid foods that carry a higher risk of foodborne illness, such as raw or undercooked meat and eggs, unpasteurised milk or dairy products, and certain high-mercury fish.

Wash fruits and vegetables properly and pay attention to food storage and hygiene.

When you're unsure about a particular food, check with your doctor rather than relying on random pregnancy advice online.

4. Don't Try Random Home Remedies to Start Labour

Once you're past the “I can't wait anymore!” stage, you may hear all sorts of suggestions for naturally inducing labour.

Castor oil, herbal preparations and other home remedies aren't something you should experiment with on your own.

Don't take anything to induce labour unless your healthcare provider recommends it.

Your body and baby have their own timeline, and sometimes waiting is exactly what your doctor recommends.

By now, you're probably familiar with your baby's usual movement pattern. If you notice that your baby's movements have slowed down or changed noticeably, don't wait until your next appointment to mention it.

Contact your healthcare provider or maternity unit immediately for advice.

6. Avoid Last-Minute Waxing or Unnecessary Grooming

Getting ready for delivery can make you feel like you need to tick off one final beauty checklist.

But you don't need to wax or shave your pubic hair before a vaginal birth.

If you're having a planned C-section, ask your healthcare team about grooming beforehand rather than waxing or shaving the surgical area at the last minute.

Instead of worrying about everything you shouldn't do, focus on what you can do.

Get enough rest, attend your appointments, eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, keep your hospital bag ready and spend some time preparing your home.

Most importantly, listen to your body and stay in touch with your healthcare provider.

The last weeks of pregnancy aren't about following a giant list of restrictions.

They're about being a little more mindful, avoiding unnecessary risks and giving yourself space to prepare for what's coming.

You don't have to do everything perfectly. Keep your medical appointments, pay attention to your baby's movements, avoid unsafe foods and unverified labour-inducing remedies, and ask your doctor whenever you're unsure.

And yes - it's completely okay to spend an afternoon doing absolutely nothing.

You've earned it.