Your third trimester will begin at the 28 week mark (7 months) and is the final stage of your pregnancy. During this time, you’re going to experience a lot of change and your body is going to start getting ready for the birth. This article is going to take a look at what to expect during your third trimester of pregnancy.
Baby growth
During this final stage of your pregnancy, your baby still has a lot of growing to do, both in size and weight. This also means that you’re going to get a whole lot bigger too. Coupled with the baby’s bigger size and their reduced amount of living space, this can mean that you’re likely to experience a few more uncomfortable kicks.
By the time week 34 arrives, your baby is going to start getting into position for labour so you’re likely to feel a lot of moving around. This doesn’t happen to all mum’s and some stubborn baby’s refuse to move which can mean your doctor is likely to get involved and try to manually turn the baby around week 37.
Changes in your body
As your baby grows and your body prepares for labour, your body is going to go through its own changes, some of which are uncomfortable.
Back ache
The extra weight gained in this third trimester of pregnancy, coupled with the additional weight of the baby that you’re carrying, is going to put some pressure on your back and is probably going to cause backache. You’re likely to also feel discomfort in your pelvis and hips at this stage. This is due to the ligaments loosening and preparing your body for labour.
To ease the pressure, try and sit up straight. Good posture and good back support will help to give your muscles a rest.
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Read More:
Useful Tips to Consider When Planning for A Second Baby
Guide to Food Safety and Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy
The Expectant Parents Guide to Antenatal Classes
Food Cravings During Pregnancy & What They Mean
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Varicose veins
The pressure on your legs caused by your growing baby can sometimes cause surface veins in your legs to become swollen. These appear purple or blue in colour, called varicose veins, and are very common during the third trimester of pregnancy. There’s no way to prevent this from happening but the varicose veins are likely to improve a few months after birth.
Frequent urination
It’s likely that your baby is pressing down on your bladder, and now that they’re bigger, this is going to mean that you’ll be needing to urinate more often. This also includes during the night. As well as multiple trips, you might find that simple things like sneezing or coughing can cause a little leakage.
To avoid this, be sure to go to the bathroom whenever you feel the urge. If you experience any burning sensations whilst urinating, then speak to your doctor.
Shortness of breath
This is a common occurrence during the third trimester of pregnancy and is caused by the expanding uterus. The more the uterus expands, the more it presses up into your ribcage, leaving little room for your lungs to expand when breathing. Propping your head and shoulders up whilst you sleep is a great way to open up those airways again.
Sources:
https://www.whattoexpect.com/third-trimester-of-pregnancy.aspx
https://www.pampers.co.za/pregnancy/health/article/third-trimester-of-pregnancy-what-can-i-expect
http://www.activebeat.com/sexual-health/10-things-to-expect-in-your-third-trimester-of-pregnancy/?streamview=all