You’re in your third trimester of pregnancy, and you want to make sure you’re taking care of yourself and your baby. 

This is an important time for both you and your baby, but it can be confusing trying to figure out what you need to do. 

 In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the third trimester of pregnancy.

The start of the third trimester of pregnancy 

The third trimester of pregnancy is the period of time from week 28 through week 40. This final stage of pregnancy can be both physically and emotionally challenging for the expectant mother, as she prepares for childbirth and adjusts to the increasing size and weight of her baby. 

The third trimester is also a time of great excitement and anticipation, as the parents-to-be count down the days until they meet their new little one. Although the third trimester can be tough, it is also a very special time that should be savored and enjoyed.

Changes in your body during the third trimester

• Morning sickness 

For many women, the third trimester of pregnancy can be a time of nausea and vomiting, commonly referred to as “morning sickness.” While the exact cause of morning sickness is unknown, it is believed to be related to the hormone changes that occur during pregnancy. Morning sickness typically starts around week 6 of pregnancy and usually goes away by week 12. However, some women continue to experience nausea and vomiting into the third trimester. 

Thankfully, there are several things that can be done to help ease morning sickness. Keeping a food diary can help to identify trigger foods that make symptoms worse. Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day can also help. And drinking plenty of fluids is important to avoid dehydration. If home remedies don’t seem to be helping, talk to your neonatal provider about medications that may be safe to take during pregnancy.

• Headache

One of the most common complaints during the third trimester of pregnancy is headaches. While some women only experience occasional mild headaches, others may deal with more severe and frequent pain. 

There are a number of possible causes of third-trimester headaches, including hormonal changes, stress, lack of sleep, and dehydration. Some women find that over-the-counter pain relievers are effective in managing their headaches, but it’s important to check with your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy. There are a few simple lifestyle changes that can help to reduce the frequency and severity of third trimester headaches. These include maintaining good hydration, getting regular exercise, and managing stress levels.

• Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common symptom during the third trimester of pregnancy. It can be caused by a number of things, including hormonal changes, stress, and certain foods. While diarrhea can be unpleasant, it is usually not harmful to the baby. 

However, it is important to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids and eat small, frequent meals. If you are having severe diarrhea or if you have any concerns, speak to your doctor or midwife.

• Heartburn

Heartburn during the third trimester is a common complaint among pregnant women. The growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach, which can push acid up into the esophagus. Heartburn during the third trimester is usually worst at night when you’re lying down. 

There are a few things you can do to help ease your heartburn during the third trimester:

1. Avoid spicy and fatty foods

2. Eat small meals throughout the day

3. Prop up your head and shoulders with pillows when you sleep. 

If your heartburn is severe, your doctor may prescribe antacids or other medications. Third trimester heartburn can be uncomfortable, but it’s usually not harmful to you or your baby.

• Braxton Hicks contraction

During the third trimester of pregnancy, many women experience what is known as Braxton Hicks contractions. These are irregular uterine contractions that help to strengthen and tone the uterine muscles in preparation for labor. While most Braxton Hicks contractions often occur in the early stages of pregnancy, they can also be common during the third trimester due to an increase in your body’s hormone production as well as general changes in your belly size and shape.

One of the best ways to minimize your risk of experiencing these contractions is to monitor your physical activity levels and make sure to get plenty of rest and stay well hydrated. 

• Formation of stretch marks

During the third trimester of pregnancy, the skin on the belly stretches to accommodate the growing baby. This can often lead to the formation of stretch marks. Stretch marks are actual tears in the skin that occur when the skin is stretched beyond its limits. While they are usually harmless, they can be quite unsightly. Some women opt to use special creams or oils to help prevent stretch marks, but there is no guaranteed way to completely avoid them. If you end up with stretch marks, don’t worry. There are many ways to treat them. Talk to your doctor about your options and find a solution that works for you.

Your baby’s development during the third trimester of pregnancy

As any parent knows, babies develop rapidly during the third trimester. During this time, they gain weight and become increasingly active in preparation for life outside of the womb. They also continue to increase in length, with the head growing faster than the rest of the body. They also grow more fine motor skills and coordination, which helps them to explore their surroundings more effectively once they are born.

This period is thus a crucial time for a baby’s development, as it lays the foundation for many aspects of their physical and cognitive functioning. Yet despite this rapid development during the third trimester, parents can do a number of things to support and encourage it, including providing opportunities for tummy time and reading to them regularly. As long as parents stay tuned in to their baby’s needs during this time, they can help ensure a healthy growth trajectory well into adulthood.

About Millennium Medical Group

Millennium Medical Group provides top-notch neonatal care for newborn babies and vulnerable mothers. We take pride in delivering consistent, continuous care to achieve the highest quality of service possible. 

Consult with the best neonatal care provider today! Visit our website or get in touch with us at 855-222-9637.