As you reach 28 weeks and beyond in your pregnancy, the countdown to your due date is officially on. But what third-trimester symptoms should you anticipate, and why are they happening?
You’re now in your third trimester. By this point, you’ve likely researched strollers and become quite familiar with your doctor through numerous prenatal appointments. The excitement of meeting your baby is building, but there are still some third-trimester symptoms you might experience. As you know, pregnancy can bring on a range of unusual symptoms, often attributed to hormonal changes.
By week 28, the official start of the third trimester, your body continues to prepare for birth. Here’s what you can expect in the final stretch of your pregnancy and why these changes occur.
What to Expect in the Third Trimester
The third trimester can feel like a strange and transformative time. As your body prepares to welcome your baby, your doctor will likely discuss your birth plan alongside your symptoms.
The nausea that marked your first trimester will probably be a thing of the past, and you may feel noticeably larger than in your second trimester. If you’re using an app like Flo, you can track the changes in your baby’s growth week by week.
Dr. Charlsie Celestine, an obstetrician and gynecologist from New Jersey, explains that the primary focus of your doctor now is to ensure both you and your baby are healthy.
“We see you more frequently to make sure everything is progressing normally,” she says.
Your baby can be born from 37 weeks onward and still be considered “term.” As you approach this milestone, you'll have more frequent check-ups. “Labor could start at any time,” Dr. Celestine notes.
Common Third-Trimester Symptoms
As labor approaches, you might become more aware of every new twinge and ache. It helps to familiarize yourself with the common third-trimester symptoms.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions, or false labor contractions, can feel like mild tightening or cramping around your belly. These are your uterus muscles practicing for labor. They can vary in duration, from less than 30 seconds to two minutes, and are irregular. Unlike real contractions, Braxton Hicks don’t cause cervical dilation.
Constipation
Increased levels of progesterone slow down your digestive system, leading to constipation. To alleviate this, your healthcare provider might suggest increasing fiber intake, drinking more water, or taking supplements.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids often accompany constipation due to increased pressure on the veins around your rectum. They can appear as swollen lumps and may cause itching or bleeding. If hemorrhoids become bothersome, consult your healthcare provider.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is common in the third trimester due to the growing baby pushing against your abdomen and the upward pressure on your lungs and diaphragm. If you experience severe symptoms, such as chest pain or dizziness, seek medical advice.
Varicose Veins
The increased blood volume during pregnancy can cause veins in your legs to become more visible and swollen. Varicose veins often improve after childbirth, but if you're concerned, talk to your healthcare provider.
Frequent Urination
As your baby grows, it places more pressure on your bladder, leading to frequent urination. This is a normal part of pregnancy, and relief will come once your baby is born.
Swelling in Ankles and Feet
Fluid retention can cause swelling in your lower body. To manage this, elevate your feet, avoid standing for long periods, and consider wearing compression socks. If swelling is sudden or accompanied by other symptoms, contact your healthcare provider as it could signal preeclampsia.
Round Ligament Pain
As your uterus expands, round ligament pain may cause cramping or discomfort. This is due to the hormone relaxin, which loosens the ligaments supporting your uterus. If the pain is severe or accompanied by bleeding, consult your healthcare provider.
Signs Your Pregnancy is Progressing Well
As your due date approaches, it’s natural to monitor your pregnancy’s progress. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to assess your health and the baby’s well-being.
Fetal movement is a reassuring sign of a healthy pregnancy. If you notice any changes in your baby’s movements, reach out to your doctor for further assessment.
Last Month of Pregnancy: Recognizing Labor Signs
As you near the end of your pregnancy, knowing the signs of labor is crucial. Typical indicators include regular contractions, severe backache, a strong urge to poop, loss of your mucus plug, and your water breaking.
When to Go to the Hospital
Head to the hospital when contractions are five minutes apart and last 60 seconds. Monitor the intensity and frequency of contractions, and look out for other labor signs. If your water breaks or you experience vaginal bleeding before 37 weeks, contact your doctor immediately.
Labor can be intense, but you’re well-prepared. Trust in your abilities and remember, each sign you experience brings you closer to meeting your baby.
The Takeaway
While early pregnancy symptoms often get the most attention, third-trimester symptoms are just as important. Tracking these symptoms with an app like Flo can provide valuable insights and support. And if you ever have concerns, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.
Every twinge and nudge from your baby is a reminder that your little one is on their way.
References
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2. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-your-fetus-grows-during-pregnancy
3. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/nutrition-during-pregnancy
4. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/22640-stages-of-labor
5. https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/3rd-trimester/week-33/
6. https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/3rd-trimester/week-39/
7. https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/3rd-trimester/week-40/
8. https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/3rd-trimester/week-41/
9. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/ask-acog/what-causes-stretch-marks-during-pregnancy
10. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355167
