Understanding the Third Trimester: Baby’s Journey and Pregnancy Tips

The third trimester, spanning from week 28 to delivery at around 40 weeks, is the final and most challenging stage of pregnancy. During this period, the rapid physical changes and the baby’s growth signal that the mother’s body is preparing for delivery.

To learn more about the first and second trimesters of pregnancy, check out our blogs: “First Trimester Safety Tips: How to Protect Yourself and Your Baby,” and “Second Trimester Guidelines: Every Expecting Mother Needs to Know.”

HOW TO COUNT THE BABY MOVEMENTS IN THE THIRD TRIMESTER

Counting the movements of the baby is one of the precious acts the parents can experience.

• Count the movements at the same time of the day
• Count after having a sugary meal
• Lie on your left and concentrate on the movements.
• A move can be a kick, swish or a roll. So, note down when the first movement starts. See how much time it takes to reach 10 mins. 
• If it varies significantly, then inform the gynecologist immediately.

WHAT HAPPENS TO THE BABY IN THE THIRD TRIMESTER

By the end of the second trimester, the baby weighs almost 1 kg. When born, they typically weigh between 2.5 to 3.5 kg, experiencing significant weight gain in these final weeks.

During the third trimester:

• Head Development: The baby’s head is the largest and hardest part of the body, essential for dilating the cervix during delivery. However, if the head moves upward towards the mother’s chest, it’s called a Breech Position. If the baby is positioned horizontally, it’s known as a Transverse Lie.
• Sense Organs: The baby’s sense organs are fully developed and active. They can hear and respond to sounds, particularly the mother’s voice, and can feel touch.
• Physical Development: The baby develops good muscle tone and stronger bones, by adding calcium-rich foods in the meals.
• Fetal Movements: Regular and good fetal movements are indicators of the baby’s health.

These developments prepare the baby for life outside the womb and signal the mother’s body to get ready for childbirth.

WHAT HAPPENS TO THE MOTHER IN THIRD TRIMESTER

DOs

This is the difficult time of the pregnancy with all the physical and mental stress. 

• Be Active: Engage in light exercises and daily walks to maintain fitness and reduce stress.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Choose supportive footwear to reduce foot pain and improve balance.
• Rest on Your Side: Sleeping on your side, particularly the left side, can improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Use the pregnancy pillows if possible.
• Maintain Good Posture: Keep your posture erect to avoid back pain and support your growing belly.
• Use Hot Fomentation: Apply warm compresses to soothe muscle aches and improve circulation.

DON’Ts

During trimester 3, there are a few physical pains that shouldn’t be avoided.

• Braxton Hicks Contractions: These are practice contractions that are painless, erratic, and less intense than labor contractions. However, if the contractions increase in frequency or intensity, visit the doctor.
• Bleeding in Pregnancy: Bleeding during pregnancy is never normal and must be reported to the respective doctor. If any blood discharge or a stain, it could indicate passing the mucus plug. In the case of fresh bleeding, there are chances of issues like placenta detachment or a low-lying placenta.
• Vaginal Discharge: Vaginal discharge during pregnancy provided it is clear with no smell. But, in the last trimester of pregnancy, if there is any watery discharge, it probably means the water broke, indicating a ruptured amniotic sac and requiring medical attention.
• Frequent Urination: This is common due to the baby’s head pressing on the bladder. However, if urination is painful or associated with fever, it could be a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), which needs immediate medical consultation.
• Varicose Veins: Varicose Veins are prominent during pregnancy because the big uterus blocks the blood flowing from the lower legs to the heart. So, it tends to accumulate the blood in legs. It is normal until it develops into a serious case. It can be treated with a healthy diet and exercise.
• Colostrum: The sticky yellow liquid that comes out from the nipples is called Colostrum. In case the breasts are leaking on their own, just wipe them off rather than squeezing and worrying.

WHEN TO RUSH TO THE HOSPITAL

• Experiencing pain from the back coming to the front and regularly
• Continuous pain in the lower abdomen
• Notice any watery discharge from the vagina
• Bleeding vaginally
• Excessive nausea and vomiting
• Severe headache or dizziness
• Change in the pattern of baby movements
• Burning during urination

Understand that every woman goes through this emotional roller-coaster and is not alone. Always stay calm and consult the doctors and associates to have a positive mind.

At Lotus Hospitals, our dedicated team of gynecologists and obstetricians prioritize your health and well-being above all else. Experience exceptional maternity care and embrace your pregnancy journey with confidence, knowing that our expert team is here to support you every step of the way.

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