Third Trimester Pregnancy

The third trimester is the most rewarding part of pregnancy. Expectant parents await the arrival of their precious little one with joy and anticipation. Babies grow rapidly during this time as mom experiences more discomfort and concern about labor and delivery. At the end of the journey lies that moment when a baby is held for the first time and a woman becomes a mother.

Third Trimester Pregnancy : A Time to Rest and Prepare

As the uterus grows, the internal organs are pushed upward. This causes heartburn and shortness of breath. Restful sleep is often interrupted by an active baby while uterine size makes it impossible to see those swollen feet. A little relief is found by putting a pillow between the knees to rest better, eating several small meals to ease heartburn, and elevating feet so those shoes fit better.

Now is the time to finish preparing. Make a birth plan and discuss it with the health care provider. The nursery should be ready and the bag for the hospital packed. Start asking friends and relatives to recommend a pediatrician. Finally, sit back and dream of the perfect name.

Third Trimester, A Moment of Relief

A "lightening" of the burden occurs around the 37th week of pregnancy. This happens as the head of the baby drops down into the pelvis in preparation for birth. Pressure on the upper abdomen reduces for a short time making breathing easier; however, engagement of the head can bring pelvic pain and an increased need to urinate.

Labor and Delivery

The uterus begins practicing for labor around 28 to 30 weeks of pregnancy. Braxton Hicks are often called false labor. They are felt as a tightening in the abdomen making it firm to the touch and are most noticeable during rest but stop with exercise. In the ninth month, contractions become more frequent coming as often as 10 to 20 minutes apart. Understanding differences between real labor and Braxton Hicks is a challenge. If in doubt, contact with a health professional may be necessary.

Real labor pains get stronger and closer together over time but Braxton Hicks do not. During early labor, contractions may be mild to moderate. The mother-to-be needs to call the doctor or midwife. Active labor begins when contractions become strong and regular. This is the time to go to the hospital or birthing center.