The third trimester of pregnancy can be physically and emotionally challenging. The size and position of your baby can bring serious discomfort. Perhaps by this time you are tired from pregnancy and want to move quickly to leave. Try to stay positive and think that soon you’ll be holding your long awaited baby in her arms.
What happens to the body in the third trimester of pregnancy
As your child grows his movements will become more obvious. These exciting sensations are often accompanied by increasing discomfort and other signs and symptoms, including:
- Braxton Hicks. They occur more often in the afternoon or evening, after physical activity or sex. The closer the date of birth, the more and more contractions occur. Contact your doctor if the contractions become painful or regular.
- Back pain. Pregnancy hormones loosen the connective tissue that holds your bones in place, especially in the pelvic region. These changes can affect your spine and often lead to discomfort during the third trimester. Apply a warm pad or an ice pack to the painful area. Exercise regularly, and stretch it out. Wear shoes with low heels but not flats. If back pain does not disappear or is accompanied by other signs and symptoms, contact your doctor.
- Uneven breathing. You can start to choke. Keep your posture to give your lungs more room for expansion.
- Heartburn. Pregnancy hormones relaxing the valve between the stomach and esophagus can allow stomach acid to enter the esophagus, causing heartburn. To prevent heartburn, take small frequent meals and avoid fried foods, citrus, chocolate and spicy foods.
- Varicose veins and hemorrhoids. The increased blood flow can cause tiny red veins (spider veins) on your face, neck and hands. You may also notice dilated veins (varicose veins) on the legs. Painful, itchy varicose veins in the rectal area (hemorrhoids) is another common symptom. To prevent hemorrhoids, include a lot of fiber in your diet and drink plenty of fluids.
- Frequent urination. As soon as your baby deeper into your pelvis, you’ll feel more pressure on your bladder. You might be more likely to urinate. This additional pressure can also cause leakage of urine, especially when you laugh, cough, sneeze, bend over or lift something. If you are touched by this problem, consider using sanitary pads. If you think you may be leaking amniotic fluid, contact your doctor.
Emotions
Fear of childbirth can increase. Will it hurt? How long will it last? If I can do this? If you haven’t already, think about a class on childbirth. You will learn what to expect and meet other women who share your excitement and anxiety.
Talk to people who have had a positive experience of birth, and ask senior your doctor about options for pain relief.
Prenatal care in the third trimester
During the third trimester your doctor may ask you to come back more often, maybe every two weeks from 28 weeks and weekly from 36 weeks.
As during previous visits, the doctor will check your weight and blood pressure, and ask about any symptoms you experience. You will also need screening tests for various States, including:
- Diabetes of pregnancy. This type of diabetes that sometimes develops during pregnancy. Fast treatment and a healthy lifestyle will help you manage your blood sugar and give birth to a healthy baby.
- Iron-deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells to transfer oxygen to the tissues of your body. Anemia can cause you to feel fatigue. To treat anemia, you may need to take iron supplements.
- Streptococcus group B. It is a type of bacteria that can live in the vagina or rectum. They can cause serious infection in the baby. If the test result is positive, your doctor will recommend antibiotics during labor.
The doctor will also check the size of your child and your heart rate. Towards the end of the pregnancy, he will check your baby’s position and ask about his movements. He may also ask about your preferences concerning childbirth and pain management. If you have particular preferences in relation to genera, for example, childbirth in water or a refusal to take medication, specify your desires in the plan.