3rd Trimester Pregnancy: What to Expect

What Is the Third Trimester?

The third trimester of your pregnancy is the last phase which lasts from weeks 29 to 40, or months 7, 8, and 9. During this trimester, your baby grows, develops, and starts to change position to get ready for birth. This phase can be both physically and emotionally challenging for a pregnant woman

What Happens to A Woman’s Body During the Third Trimester?

As pregnancy progresses, your baby's movements will become more obvious. However, these exciting sensations are often accompanied by increasing discomfort. A woman may experience more aches, pain, and swelling as she carries around her baby. A pregnant woman may also begin to become anxious about her delivery. The other signs and symptoms include:

• Occasional random tightening of uterus called Braxton-Hicks contractions

• Backaches

• Shortness of breath

• Heartburn

• Spider veins, varicose veins and haemorrhoids

• Swollen ankles, fingers, or face

• Tender breasts that may leak watery milk

• Difficulty in sleeping

• Frequent urination

• Fatique

• Abdominal achiness

• Stretch marks

• Weight gain

Red Flag Symptoms

If you experience any of the below symptoms, then it could be a sign that something is wrong with your pregnancy. Don't wait for your regular prenatal visit to talk about it and call your doctor right away.

• Severe abdominal pain or cramps

• Severe nausea or vomiting

• Bleeding

• Severe dizziness

• Pain or burning during urination

• Rapid weight gain (more than 6.5 pounds per month) or too little weight gain

What Happens to The Foetus During the Third Trimester?

• At around week 32, baby’s bones are fully formed

• Baby can open and close its eyes and sense light

• Baby’s body begins to store minerals like calcium and iron

• By week 36, the baby should be in a head down position.

• After week 37, your baby is considered full term and its organs are ready to function on their own.

According to studies, the baby is now around 19 to 21 inches long and probably weighs between 6 and 9 pounds.

What Is Expected at The Doctor?

• During the third trimester, you will meet with your doctor more regularly

• Your doctor will check your progress with vaginal examination

• Doctor may perform a Group B strep test to test for a bacterium that can be very harmful to a baby. Your doctor will give you antibiotics if you test positive.

How Can You Stay Healthy During the Third Trimester?

You may not feel the most comfortable at all times, but you have to stay physically and mentally fit all through the pregnancy third trimester. To achieve this, stay active by walking every day. Also, get enough rest. Eat well-balanced meals and ensure you get enough calories. Avoid stress and anxiety to all extents and keep your mind fresh and happy.

What Can You Do to Prepare for Birth?

• Attend prenatal classes

• Develop a birth plan with your doctor

• Plan and arrange your maternity leave

• Stock up on baby supplies

• Celebrate your pregnancy with family and friends

Conclusion

Your baby is almost ready to come out and you surely must be very excited. However, do not let your guard down and be very careful. Follow your doctor’s advice, eat well, exercise, and stay happy.

Sources: Healthline, Hopkins Medicine, Mayo Clinic

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on October 03, 2022