Understanding Your Pregnancy’s Third Trimester

Known as the third trimester or the last stage of pregnancy, this phase brings a wave of anticipation as the reality of welcoming a new life draws nearer.

Duration of the Third Trimester in Pregnancy

The third trimester typically starts from week 29 to the end of the pregnancy, which is week 40.

Foetus Development During the Third Trimester

The third trimester of pregnancy marks the final stretch of the gestational journey as the baby’s organs and systems grow significantly and reach maturity, thus reaching a state of readiness for life outside the womb.

The baby’s significant movements include stretching, kicking, and grasping. The limbs begin to look chubby, the eyes are capable of sensing light, and fingernails have grown to the tips of the fingers. There may be some hair on the head as well. The testicles start descending into the scrotum.

The circulatory and musculoskeletal systems are fully developed, providing proper functioning and support for the growing baby.

The baby also shifts position to head down into your pelvic area, ready for birth.

Common Symptoms During the Third Trimester

The mother’s body undergoes substantial changes to support the growing baby. As the due date approaches, the mother might start experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions more frequently. These are mild, irregular contractions of the uterus that occur during pregnancy.

Braxton Hicks contractions are more noticeable in the third trimester and can be triggered by physical activity, dehydration, or a full bladder. They are often called “practice contractions” because they prepare the body for labour without indicating that labour is starting. These contractions can feel like a tightening in the abdomen and are usually not painful.

Other common symptoms during the third trimester include backaches, headaches, stretch marks, sleeping problems, bloating and constipation, leg cramps, dizziness, haemorrhoids, heartburn, frequent urination, and urine infection.

Tips for Expectant Mothers

The third trimester is a period of readiness and empowerment for the mother as she prepares for childbirth.

Attending regular prenatal check-ups become increasingly important. Appointments will be scheduled:

• Once every two weeks from week 32 to week 35
• Once a week from week 36 onwards

These check-ups allow obstetricians to monitor both the mother’s health and the baby’s development closely. Learn more about antenatal screening during the third trimester.

Be vigilant about any pregnancy-related issues that may arise. Seek medical attention promptly if you experience severe abdominal cramps, unexplained vaginal bleeding, pain during urination, severe headaches, and abnormal heart rates.

Monitoring foetal movement is an important aspect in the third trimester. Reduced or excessive amniotic fluid, the baby’s position, maternal stress, or dehydration can influence foetal movement. Decreased foetal movement could indicate potential issues with the baby’s health.

Other matters to be practiced are continuing good lifestyle habits that you have practiced in the first and second trimester of your pregnancy: stay hydrated to prevent dehydration, eat a balanced diet, avoid uncooked or raw meat, shellfish, eggs, soft cheeses, and unpasteurised milk products, reduce your caffeine intake, and start practicing pelvic floor exercises to prepare for labour and have bladder control. 

You should have stopped smoking, used alcohol, hot tubs and saunas, or engaging in contact sports and activities that can put pressure on your abdomen that can cause bleeding.

Lying on your left side whilst using pregnancy support pillows is the best sleeping position during the third trimester. Other positions include placing a pillow between your legs and another under the abdomen to relieve pressure on your lower back. Avoid sleeping flat on your back because it may potentially lead to reduced blood flow to the baby.

Read our comprehensive guide to prenatal care and find out what to expect in the first trimester and second trimester of your pregnancy journey.

Preparation for Baby’s Birth

While deciding between a natural birth or a caesarean section, you can discuss with your obstetrician to understand more about the pros and cons of each birthing option and communicate your preferences clearly.

It is also recommended to attend childbirth education classes, watch birth videos, read books, and research positioning exercises. Start practicing deep breathing to help reduce labour pains, and stay physically active daily to prepare your body for labour.

Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

If you have questions about prenatal care during your pregnancy, get in touch with us to book an appointment today for a consultation, or visit our Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital