What to expect in your Third Trimester of Pregnancy
The third trimester of pregnancy is from week 28 to week 40. It’s a time of anticipation and excitement for most, however this can also be associated with anxiety and nervousness.
It is important if you experienced reduced fetal movements, labour pain, watery vaginal loss or vaginal bleeding, or if you are concerned, to consult Mikhaila, or attend the nearest emergency department (ED), or call ‘000’.
Symptoms you might experience during the second trimester of your pregnancy
Uterus continues to grow
The uterus continues to enlarge as your baby grows, in the third trimester the uterus can push against your diaphragm and stomach, which may cause discomfort. Sleeping on your side is important after 20 weeks’ gestation to avoid your growing uterus obstructing blood flow.
‘Braxton Hicks’ contractions
As your uterus expands, you may experience Braxton Hicks contractions, otherwise known as ‘false labour’ pains. You experience painful tightenings of the abdominal muscles, however unlike true labour, they can be irregular and ‘fizzle’, rather than becoming stronger, more painful and more frequent as usually occurs with term labour pains.
If you are having painful, regular tightenings or you are worried by your abdominal pain, please contact your midwife or doctor, or call your birthing hospital.
Gut symptoms
The growing uterus can push on your stomach, result in heartburn.
Hormonal changes can also contribute to new or worsening constipation.
Smaller and more frequent meals, ensuring adequate hydration and fibre, and avoiding fatty, fried, spicy foods can be helpful.
Remaining semi-upright for 30 minutes post meals is recommended.
Energy and Sleep
Your enlarging abdomen and increasing weight can cause difficulty sleeping and fatigue.
Ensure adequate rest, which may require rest during the day. To optimise sleep, avoiding stimulation prior to bed (including avoiding caffeine, screen stimulation) is recommended.
It is recommended you avoid sleeping on your back in the 2nd and 3rd trimester.
Vaginal discharge
Hormonal changes usually cause an increase in whiteish vaginal discharge.
If you experience smelly, itchy, painful, green or watery discharge, please consult your doctor or midwife.
Urinary frequency
Hormonal changes of pregnancy result in increased fluid retention, and your growing uterus presses on your bladder. This can result in urinary frequency. For some, urinary leakage with coughing or sneezing can also occur.
If you experience pain with urination, or leakage, please consult your doctor or midwife.
Swelling and/or varicose veins
Hormonal changes in pregnancy result in increased fluid retention, which results in swelling especially of your hands and feet. As your uterus grows and presses on blood vessels, swelling can worsen and varicose veins can develop / worsen.
Regular exercise, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing and avoiding sitting with crossed legs is recommended. Elevate your legs when possible.
If you experience lower leg swelling on one leg, especially if painful, please consult your doctor or midwife.
Emotions
There is physical, hormonal, emotional and social changes that all contribute to how one is feeling at this stage of pregnancy. Your emotions may range from excitement and anticipation, to nesting instincts or nervousness.
Be kind to yourself. If you notice a worsening of your mood, please consult your doctor or midwife.
What is happening from your baby’s viewpoint?
Your baby is continuing to mature and grow in this very important stage of pregnancy. The lungs become more mature with each day, preparing for breathing and crying at birth. The brain undergoes rapid developing and is forming new connections each day.
Your baby should continue to move in the same frequency as it has for the pregnancy. The type of movement changes given your baby has less room for somersaults, however it still should be as frequent. If you are worried the baby’s movements are less, please consult your midwife or doctor.
Your baby’s head will settle into your pelvis as you approach your due date. This can be associated with your abdomen ‘dropping’ as your baby’s head moves down, but also increased pelvic and back pain especially at the end of the day.
What you can do at this stage?
The third trimester can be physically and emotionally demanding, but it is also a time of great joy and anticipation. By staying informed, preparing for birth, and seeking support from loved ones and healthcare professionals, mothers can navigate this final stage of pregnancy with confidence and excitement.
Continue your regular antenatal check-ups with Mikhaila and midwife, Prue.
Antenatal education and birthing classes are an excellent way to prepare.
If you are concerned your baby’s movements are less, you are in labour or you are overall concerned, please consult your midwife or doctor.
Ready for Pregnancy Care?
If you’re ready to start your journey with a passionate female obstetrician, it’s time to make an appointment with Dr Mikhaila Lazanyi.