The third trimester marks the final weeks before your baby arrives. Your body continues to adjust as it prepares for birth, which can bring a mix of emotions. Here's what you need to know about physical changes, common symptoms, and ways to manage them.
Learn what to expect in the third trimester and how to navigate the changes your body undergoes during the final stage of pregnancy.
Shortness of breath: As the baby grows, it can push against your diaphragm, making it harder to take deep breaths.
Increased white discharge: A thicker discharge helps prevent infections by keeping the birth canal clean.
Swollen feet, ankles, and hands: Fluid retention and pregnancy hormones can cause swelling, especially in the lower extremities.
Back pain and pelvic discomfort: The baby’s weight and pressure on your lower body can strain muscles and joints, causing pain.
Frequent urination: The baby’s position puts pressure on your bladder, leading to more frequent bathroom trips.
Heartburn and indigestion: Hormonal changes and the baby’s position can relax digestive muscles, causing discomfort.
Braxton Hicks contractions: These "practice" contractions prepare your body for labour and may feel like mild tightening.
Fatigue and disturbed sleep: Hormonal shifts, discomfort, and frequent urination can disrupt your sleep and leave you tired.
Your baby grows and develops rapidly as it gets ready for life outside your womb. At this stage, your baby’s lungs mature, and they start responding to sounds and light.
Month 7: Your baby is about the size of a large coconut (41.8 cm) by week 32
Month 8: Your baby is about the size of lettuce (47 cm) by week 36
Month 9: Your baby is about the size of a small pumpkin (50.8 cm) by week 40
The third trimester is the time to prepare for the arrival of your baby. That means you need to give special attention to your dietary needs, sleeping position, and regular checkups.
Third Trimester Pregnancy Diet
Exercises in the Third Trimester
Sleeping Positions in the Third Trimester
Medical Checkups and Scans in the Third Trimester
In the third trimester, your body continues to adapt to your growing baby. You may notice white discharge, swelling, back pain, and heightened emotions. These changes are your body’s way of preparing for childbirth.
Mood Swings During Pregnancy
Mood swings can get more intense in the third trimester due to physical discomfort and hormonal shifts. These feelings are normal. Practising relaxation techniques can help manage your stress.
Nausea & Vomiting
Nausea and occasional vomiting may return due to hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing baby. Eating smaller, frequent meals and staying hydrated could help reduce these symptoms.
Weight Gain
Weight gain is a normal part of third-trimester pregnancy, typically 0.2 to 0.5 kilograms per week. Use a pregnancy weight gain calculator to track your progress and ensure it’s within the recommended range.
Body Pain
Pain on the right side during pregnancy in the third trimester is common due to the baby’s weight. Gentle stretching and pregnancy-safe massage can ease some of your discomfort.
Sleep Discomfort
As your body grows, finding comfortable third-trimester pregnancy sleeping positions becomes challenging. Sleeping on your left side can help improve circulation and reduce discomfort, especially as the due date nears.
Vaginal Discharge
Increased vaginal discharge is normal and helps maintain a healthy environment to prepare for birth. Look for any unusual changes and consult your doctor if you’re concerned.
The third trimester brings new physical demands and needs. So being mindful of your diet, physical activity, medications, and rest patterns can make a big difference.
Learn about the safety and changes surrounding sex during the third trimester. Find answers to common concerns and expert guidance for a comfortable and healthy experience.
Many of you may wonder if sex during the third trimester of pregnancy is allowed. Most women can safely engage in sex during the third trimester, provided there are no specific medical restrictions from your doctor.
Positions that reduce abdominal pressure, such as side-lying or the woman-on-top position, are most comfortable during this time. Another common question is, is it safe to have an orgasm in the third trimester? For most women, orgasms are entirely safe and don’t pose a risk.
Early arrival
Discuss premature labour signs with the doctor to address concerns and get proper guidance.
Labor check-up
If your labour feels abnormal let the doctor examine you first for a correct diagnosis
Childbirth prep
Enrol yourself in prenatal courses to learn different labour stages and what to expect.
Stay active
A moderately intense 30-minute physical activity on most days of the week is great.
Take Prenatal Vitamins
Ensure you take prenatal vitamins throughout your pregnancy and the postpartum period
Achieving balance is key according to Ayurveda. Gentle oil massages, mindful breathing exercises, and nourishing foods rich in vital nutrients help ease discomfort.
Achieving balance is key during the third trimester according to Ayurvedic practises. Gentle oil massages, mindful breathing exercises, and nourishing foods rich in vital nutrients help ease discomfort. They also enable you to remain calm and to prepare for childbirth.
The third trimester is marked by rapid fetal growth, increased body changes, and preparations for labour.
The third trimester typically starts at the 28th week and lasts until delivery, which is usually around the 40th week.
Common discomforts include back pain, sleep issues, and frequent urination due to the baby’s position and size.
Yes, with proper care and regular checkups, the majority of pregnancies in the third trimester are safe.
Stretching, prenatal massages, and warm baths can help relieve pain, especially in the back and legs.
Most women gain about 0.2 to 0.5 kilograms per week during the third trimester, as the baby grows rapidly.
By the third trimester, you should feel your baby move regularly, often several times a day.
Go to the hospital when contractions are regular and about 5 minutes apart or if your water breaks.
