As you enter the final stretch of your pregnancy, the third trimester can bring a mix of anticipation and discomfort. Your baby’s growing size and movements can make it hard to find comfort, and you might feel eager for the pregnancy to conclude. Staying positive is crucial as the end of this journey is near, and soon you’ll be holding your baby. Here’s what you can expect during this stage.
Changes in Your Body
The physical changes during the third trimester are quite pronounced. Here are some common symptoms and tips for managing them:
- Braxton Hicks Contractions: These are mild, irregular contractions that might feel like a tightening in your abdomen. They can occur more frequently as your due date approaches. If the contractions become regular and increase in intensity, contact your healthcare provider as this might indicate preterm labor.
- Back Pain: As pregnancy hormones relax the ligaments in your pelvis, your back may bear more strain, causing discomfort. Choose chairs with good back support, engage in regular exercise, and wear supportive, low-heeled shoes. Severe or persistent pain should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
- Shortness of Breath: Your growing baby can press against your diaphragm, making it harder to breathe deeply. Maintain good posture to give your lungs more room to expand.
- Heartburn: Hormones relax the valve between your stomach and esophagus, leading to acid reflux. To minimize heartburn, eat small, frequent meals and avoid trigger foods like spicy dishes, citrus, and chocolate.
- Varicose Veins and Hemorrhoids: Increased blood circulation can lead to swollen veins, particularly in your legs and rectal area. To alleviate discomfort, exercise regularly, elevate your legs, eat a high-fiber diet, and stay hydrated. For hemorrhoids, try warm baths or witch hazel pads.
- Frequent Urination: As your baby descends into your pelvis, pressure on your bladder increases, causing more frequent trips to the bathroom and potential leakage. Use panty liners if necessary, and contact your healthcare provider if you suspect you might be leaking amniotic fluid.
Emotional Changes
As your due date approaches, it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. You might have concerns about labor and delivery, wondering about pain management and the duration of labor. Childbirth classes can provide valuable information and reassurance. Discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider and talking to other parents about their positive birth experiences can also help ease anxiety.
Preparing for parenthood can also bring its own set of emotions, especially for first-time parents. Writing in a journal and making practical preparations, such as purchasing a nursing bra or breast pump, can help you feel more in control and ready for the changes ahead.
Prenatal Care
In the third trimester, expect more frequent checkups—typically every two weeks starting at week 32 and weekly from week 36. Your healthcare provider will monitor your weight, blood pressure, and any symptoms you report. Virtual prenatal care might be an option if you don’t have high-risk conditions. Ensure you have received the COVID-19 vaccine and the Tdap vaccine to protect both you and your baby.
Important screening tests during this trimester include:
- Gestational Diabetes: Managed with lifestyle changes and possibly medication to keep blood sugar levels in check.
- Iron Deficiency Anemia: Treated with iron supplements if needed.
- Group B Strep: If positive, you’ll receive antibiotics during labor to prevent passing the infection to your baby.
Your provider will also check your baby’s size, heart rate, position, and movements. Discuss your birth plan and any preferences you have for labor and pain management, but be flexible as plans might need to change based on how labor progresses.
Final Preparations
As you near your due date, continue to ask questions and seek information to prepare for labor and delivery. Understanding what to expect can help you approach childbirth with confidence and a positive outlook.
Being well-prepared and informed can help you navigate the final weeks of pregnancy with confidence and calmness.
References
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2022). Pregnancy: What to expect in the third trimester. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from [Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20047208)
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). *Your Pregnancy and Childbirth: Month to Month* (7th ed.).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). COVID-19 vaccines while pregnant or breastfeeding. Retrieved from [CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/pregnancy.html)