Things To Expect In Your Third Trimester

Congratulations! You're in the home stretch of your pregnancy, and your little bundle of joy will be arriving soon. As you enter the third trimester, it is imperative that you focus on nurturing yourself and preparing for the exciting journey ahead. The third trimester of pregnancy becomes even more crucial as you inch closer to meeting your baby. To help you prepare for this final stretch, we have compiled a comprehensive guide outlining - things you can expect during your third trimester. 

What is the Third Trimester?

The third trimester is the final stage of pregnancy, spanning from week 28 until the birth of the child, typically around week 40. During this crucial period, the foetus undergoes significant growth and development, and the mother experiences various physical and emotional changes. In the third trimester, the baby’s organs continue to mature and prepare for life outside the womb. 

The foetus gains weight and accumulates body fat, which helps regulate body temperature after birth. The lungs develop further to support breathing, and the brain undergoes rapid growth and refinement. The baby's movements may become more noticeable, and they can open and close their eyes. As for the mother, she may experience increased discomfort and physical changes during the third trimester. 

The growing baby puts pressure on the organs, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination, heartburn, shortness of breath, and difficulty in sleeping. The mother's abdomen continues to expand, and she may experience stretch marks, backaches, and swelling in the hands and feet. 

Final Countdown - Things to Expect in Your Third Trimester

During the third trimester of pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes significant changes to accommodate the growing foetus and prepare for childbirth. Here are some of the changes shown in the third trimester:

1. Growing Belly, Raising Discomfort:

By the third trimester, your baby is rapidly gaining weight and size, resulting in a noticeable expansion of your belly. As your baby grows, you may experience back pain, difficulty in finding a comfortable sleeping position, and shortness of breath. Embrace maternity clothing, prioritise gentle exercise, and consider doing yoga to help reduce discomfort and promote relaxation.

2. Braxton Hicks Contractions:

Braxton Hicks contractions, often referred to as "practice contractions," become more frequent and intense during the third trimester. These sporadic contractions help prepare your body for labour but should not be as painful or regular as true labour contractions. If you're unsure whether it's labour or false contractions, consult your healthcare provider to ease any concerns.

3. Nesting Instinct:

As your  delivery date approaches, you might find yourself overcome by the nesting instinct. Nesting involves an overwhelming urge to organise, clean, and prepare your home for the arrival of your little one. Channel this energy into creating a cosy and welcoming space, but remember to pace yourself and prioritise self-care.

4. Increased Fatigue:

During the third trimester, your body is working tirelessly to support the growth and development of your baby. As a result, fatigue can become more pronounced. Listen to your body, rest when needed, and communicate with your loved ones. Remember, getting plenty of sleep is essential for your overall well-being.

5. Emotional Roller Coaster:

The combination of hormonal fluctuations, anticipation, and the impending arrival of your baby can lead to a whirlwind of emotions. It's common to experience mood swings, anxiety, and even moments of self-doubt during this phase. Don't hesitate to share your feelings with your partner, family, and friends. However, it is common to feel a mix of emotions during this transformative time.

6. Baby's Movement:

As your baby continues to grow in the womb, you'll feel movements, which will be stronger than before. The third trimester provides a unique opportunity for you and your partner to bond with the baby as you observe their activity. Pay attention to any significant changes in the movement and reach your healthcare provider if you have any help concerns.

7. Preparation for Labour:

The third trimester is ideal for finalising your birth plan and preparing for labour. Attend childbirth classes, learn about pain management techniques, and discuss your preferences with your healthcare provider. Educate yourself about the early signs of labour and create a hospital bag checklist to ensure you're well-prepared when the big day arrives.

How can you be healthy and fit during the third trimester?

During the third trimester of pregnancy, it's important to continue prioritising your health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy during this stage:

1. Regular Prenatal Care: Continue attending your prenatal check-ups as scheduled. It will allow your healthcare experts to monitor your health conditions. 

2. Balanced Diet: Maintain a well-balanced and nutritious diet. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Generally, avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and caffeine intake.

3. Proper Weight Gain: Ensure you are gaining weight within the recommended range for your pregnancy. Excessive weight gain can lead to complications, while inadequate weight gain may affect your baby's growth.

4. Regular Exercise: Try to engage in safe and moderate exercise regularly. Consult your healthcare experts for the proper exercises during the third trimester. These may include walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and low-impact aerobics that are generally considered safe.

5. Good Posture: As your baby grows, your centre of gravity shifts, which can strain your back. Maintain good posture and use proper body mechanics while sitting, standing, and lifting to alleviate discomfort.

6. Sleep: Try to get enough quality sleep, which directly helps in the well-being of the mother and child. Use pillows or other supports to find a comfortable sleeping position. If discomfort or frequent urination keeps you awake, try adjusting your sleep environment. 

7. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Perform pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to strengthen the muscles that support your bladder, uterus, and bowels. Strong pelvic floor muscles can help prevent or reduce issues like incontinence and support during labour.

8. Stress Management: Pregnancy can be a time of heightened emotions. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and prenatal yoga, or seek support from loved ones or professionals to manage stress and anxiety.

9. Monitor Foetal Movements: Pay attention to your baby's movements. In case you notice any odd changes or a decrease in foetal movements, contact your healthcare professional immediately.

What to avoid during the third trimester?

Take certain precautions to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby in the trimester. Here are some things to avoid during the third trimester of pregnancy: 

1. Heavy Lifting: Avoid lifting heavy objects as they can strain your back and increase the risk of injury.

2. Intense Physical Activities: While light to moderate exercise is generally beneficial during pregnancy, avoid engaging in high-impact or heavy activities that can pose a risk to your safety or the baby's well-being. 

3. Poor Posture: Maintain good posture to prevent backaches and strain on your muscles. Avoid standing or sitting in the same position for extended periods and use supportive cushions or pillows when necessary.

4. Lying Flat On Your Back: Avoid lying flat on your back for prolonged periods, especially after the 20th week of pregnancy. This position can compress major blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the uterus and the baby.

5. Certain Foods: Be cautious about your food choices and avoid consuming foods that may pose a risk of foodborne illnesses, such as undercooked meats, raw seafood, unpasteurized dairy products, and certain soft cheeses.

6. Excessive Caffeine: Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, tea, and energy drinks, as excessive caffeine can be harmful for the baby. Stick to moderate consumption or switch to decaffeinated alternatives.

7. Alcohol and Tobacco: Strictly avoid alcohol and tobacco products during pregnancy, as they can have severe effects on the baby's development and overall health.

8. Stress and Excessive Workload: Try to minimise stress and avoid taking on excessive workloads during the third trimester. Practice relaxation techniques, engage in activities that help you unwind, and seek support from your loved ones.

It's essential to consult your healthcare professional for personalised advice and guidelines specific to your pregnancy. They will be able to provide you with tailored recommendations and address any concerns you may have.

The third trimester is a period of significant growth, both for your baby and yourself as an expectant mother. While you may experience physical discomforts and emotional changes, remember that these are all signs of your body preparing for the incredible journey of bringing new life into the world. Embrace this phase with patience, self-care, and a sense of wonder. Soon enough, you'll be holding your precious baby in your arms, and all the challenges of the third trimester will become distant memories.

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