10 Things To Expect In The Third Trimester

If you’re reading this, you’re likely curious what you can expect in the weeks or months ahead as you enter your third trimester of pregnancy. The third trimester marks both an exciting and a daunting milestone - you’re just a few months away from meeting your new baby and your body is rapidly changing to prepare for birth. We know how nerve-racking the third trimester can feel at times - especially for first-time mothers - so we’re sharing common things you can likely expect during your final weeks of pregnancy.

What is the third trimester?

Typically the 28th through 40th weeks of pregnancy are considered to be the third trimester, or the “home stretch” of pregnancy. Your fetus is nearing full development and your body is preparing for childbirth. During these last few months of pregnancy, your baby will grow rapidly and develop their bones, hair, skin, nails, senses, digestive system, and brain. 

10 Things To Expect In the Third Trimester

During your last few months of pregnancy, you can expect your body to change even further in preparation for childbirth. You may experience changes in your hormones, mood, body shape, energy levels, and more. While every woman’s body is unique and experiences the third trimester differently, there are a handful of commonalities that you can likely expect to experience during your third trimester:

1. Braxton Hicks contractions

These “practice contractions” may begin occurring in the weeks leading up to labor as your body prepares itself for birth.

2. Lack of bladder control
With all of the extra weight being placed on your pelvic floor as the baby grows, it’s completely normal to feel less in control of your bladder and have to pee more often.

3. Stretchmarks
As your body continues to grow with the baby, you may notice tiny tear marks along your skin called, “stretch marks.” Moisturizing regularly can help to minimize their appearance.

5. Decreased Libido
With horomone levels rapidly changing, it’s common for women to experience a decrease in their sex drive (Libido) during the first and third trimesters of pregnancy.

6. Varicose Veins
Bulging veins, including hemorrhoids, may appear along your lower body due to the extra blood your body is pumping. These are likely to disappear post-pregnancy.

7. Backaches
If your back wasn’t aching already, it may begin during the third trimester. Many women report backaches due to their belly propelling their bodies forward, placing more pressure on their joints and spine.

8. Leaky nipples
A fluid called Colostrum may begin leaking from your breasts. This is your body’s way of warming up to prepare for breastfeeding your baby.

9. Heartburn and constipation
During your last few weeks of pregnancy, your uterus will be pushing on certain organs, like your stomach and intestines, which can cause discomfort such as persistent heartburn and constipation. If you find yourself struggling to manage these issues, consult with your primary care physician to explore remedies that are safe to use during pregnancy.

10. Swelling
You may notice increased swelling in your hands, face, and ankles. This is called Edema and is due to the extra fluids your body is retaining. 

The final weeks of pregnancy can feel daunting, but know that you don’t have to face it alone. A midwife and doula can help to ensure you feel safe, supported, and encouraged throughout every step of your pregnancy journey.

Have questions about our midwifery services at the Cincinnati Birthing Center? Contact us to book a free discovery call with our team to learn more. 

SOURCES
“3rd Trimester Pregnancy: What to Expect.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 27 Feb. 2020, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20046767. 

Bellefonds, Colleen de. “Your Guide to the Third Trimester of Pregnancy.” What to Expect, What to Expect, 5 Sept. 2018, https://www.whattoexpect.com/third-trimester-of-pregnancy.aspx. 

“The Third Trimester.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medicine, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-third-trimester.