Third Trimester of Pregnancy

Third trimester of pregnancy is the last trimester of pregnancy. Read on to find what health issues are expected during the third trimester of pregnancy and tips for taking care during third trimester.Pregnancy care during third trimester means the mother-to-be starts expecting weekly checkups and needs to be more conscious and alert. Although the usual care of paying attention to diet and light exercise should go on as in first and second trimester, little changes are needed. Third trimester is usually physically and emotionally more challenging. By now you are tired of pregnancy, your increasing body weight and the size and position of your baby makes you more uncomfortable most often. Well, remain positive while you are looking forward to the completion of your pregnancy term because very soon you will have your bundle of joy in your arms. In this articleWeight GainContinued Breast GrowthBackachesContractionsHeartburnBreathlessnessSwellingFrequent UrinationWhat to Expect in Third Trimester of Pregnancy Have a quick look at the health issues which are experienced in the third trimester of pregnancy. Weight Gain – Your weight is growing continuously and by the end of the third trimester it is expected that you gain 11 to 16 kg over your own weight. The weight gain is due to the baby’s size, large breasts, placenta, amniotic fluid and uterus. The increased volume of blood and fluid along with some extra fat stored also result in weight gain. Continued Breast Growth – The breast size might be quite huge by now, perhaps weighing 1 kg. As the delivery date approaches, you might even find leakage of yellowish fluid. This is going to nourish your child in first few days. Backaches – As the due date starts approaching, the joints between the bones of the pelvic area starts relaxing due to the release of pregnancy hormones. These result in backaches. When you need to sit, choose a chair that gives you proper back support. Backaches along with other signs can be indicating something. So, contact your doctor. Contractions – You will feel contractions every now and then. These are rehearsals for the real thing to come. They most often come and go unpredictably. True labour contractions will be stronger, longer and closer too. If you are having long and regular contractions, consult your doctor. Heartburn – The growing uterus pushes the stomach which results in heartburn. Eat small and frequent meals instead of taking heavy ones. Drink lot of water and fluid. Avoid fried and spicy food, carbonated drinks and citrus fruit. Use maternity pillows to get relief while sleeping and resting. Breathlessness – Usually women experience breathlessness especially when the baby settles deep in the pelvis before delivery. If you practice prenatal yoga and have attended classes, you can settle down in right posture. Sleep taking a pillow supporting your upper body so that pressure on the lungs is relieved. Swelling – Your feet and ankle might get swelled because of the pressure the growing uterus puts on veins. You can lie down and use footrest to get rid of the swelling. If you find it very uncomfortable, you can consult your doctor. Frequent Urination – It is obvious that since the baby has grown in size the uterus gives pressure on your bladder. You can even find it out of control sometimes. Using panty liners can help you stay relaxed. However, you should be careful as urinary tract infection can also be the cause behind frequent urination. The symptoms that are expected during the third trimester can differ at times. You should be alert and careful during this time. Avoid travelling long distances and always have your doctor’s number handy. Pick your baby name while you wait for the big day.