| Pregnancy
Signs & Symptoms: Third Trimester |
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| Changes in Your Body
You could still be having some of the same discomforts you had in your second trimester, but now you will notice that you may have to go to the bathroom more often or that you find it even harder to breathe. This is because the baby is getting bigger and it is putting more pressure on your organs. Don't worry, your baby is fine and these problems will lessen once you give birth. You also might have some of these changes: Heartburn As your baby gets bigger, your uterus pushes on your stomach and can cause heartburn, especially before bedtime or right after you eat. Continue to avoid greasy, fried foods and eat six to eight smaller meals instead of large meals. You also can take small sips of milk or eat small pieces of chipped ice. If your heartburn is severe and doesn't improve with these tips, talk with your health care provider. Also talk with your health care provider before taking an antacid medication. Swelling As you near the end of your pregnancy, you might notice more swelling than you had before, especially in your ankles, fingers and face. Continue to drink lots of fluids (water is best) and rest when you can with your feet elevated. If you notice sudden, extreme swelling in any of these areas, or have a rapid significant weight gain, call your health care provider right away. This could be a sign of preeclampsia or toxemia. Hemorrhoids You might begin to experience more discomfort from hemorrhoids now from the increased pressure of your growing baby on the veins in your rectum. You might also be constipated, which makes hemorrhoids worse because you might strain for a bowel movement. Try to avoid hemorrhoids by drinking lots of fluids and eating plenty of whole grains, raw or cooked leafy green vegetables, and fruits. Try not to strain for bowel movements, and always talk with your health care provider before taking a laxative. Tender Breasts Your breasts have most likely increased in size and fullnesss as your pregnancy has advanced. As you near the end of your pregnancy, hormones in your body cause your breasts to increase even more in size, to prepare for breastfeeding. Your breasts can feel full and heavy, and they might be tender or uncomfortable. Wearing a well-fitting maternity or nursing bra will help you be more comfortable, because these types of bras offer extra support. Some pregnant women begin to leak colostrum in the third trimester. Colostrum is the first milk that your breasts produce for your baby. It is a thick, yellowish fluid that contains antibodies that protect new babies from infections. If leaking becomes a problem for you, you can purchase disposable or cloth nursing pads (that you can use when nursing your newborn) to place inside your bra. Now and after delivery, it is a good idea to only wash your nipples with water instead of soap. Soap might cause the skin of your nipples to become dry, irritated and crack. If you do have skin cracks, which can be sore and painful, use a heavier cream that contains lanolin for extra moisture. Changes in Your Baby Your baby is still growing and moving, but now it has less room in your uterus. Because of this, you might not feel the kicks and movements as much as you did in the second trimester. During this final stage of your pregnancy, your baby is continuing to grow. Even before your baby is born it will be able to open and close its eyes and might even suck its thumb. As your body starts to prepare for the birth, your baby will start to move into its birth position. You might notice the baby "dropping," or moving down lower in your abdomen. This can reduce the pressure on your lungs and rib cage, making it easier to breathe or not to get out of breath so fast. As you near your due date, your cervix becomes thinner and softer (called effacing). This is a normal, natural process that helps the birth canal (vagina) to open during the birthing process. Your health care provider can check your progress with a vaginal exam. And, your visits to your provider may increase the month before you give birth. The average baby is about 20 to 22 inches long and weighs approximately 7 1/2 pounds at birth, but anywhere between 5 lbs., 11 1/2 ounces and 8 lbs., 5 3/4 ounces is a healthy range for newborns. Related Topics: First Trimester Signs & Symptoms Second Trimester Signs & Symptoms |
| This fact sheet
outlines the primary signs and symptoms you are likely to experience
during the third trimester of pregnancy. Be sure to consult your physician
if you have any questions or are experiencing any unusual
symptoms. Find online pregnancy advice and support. |
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| This document is
provided solely for educational and informational purposes. Be sure to consult your doctor before making any major medical decision. |
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