Pregnancy Symptoms: Third Trimester

The third trimester can be a time of challenges and discomfort for some women, while for others, growing abdomens and the side-effects affiliated with them are easily managed.

It?s good to keep in mind that there are a multitude of symptoms associated with third trimester pregnancy, and each woman?s body handles pregnancy differently.

Feeling the Pressure:

The pressure on your internal organs applied by the growing fetus can lead to a number of different side effects.

Pressure on the diaphragm, the muscle that controls lung function, can cause some moms-to-be shortness of breath. This usually improves later on in the third trimester when the baby positions itself lower within the pelvis in preparation for delivery, but in the meantime shortness of breath can be helped by sleeping propped up and performing light, physician-approved exercise.
Pressure on the stomach may cause heartburn, as the stomach acid is displaced. Staying hydrated and eating small, frequent meals will help keep the stomach stable.
Pressure on the bladder can cause quite frequent urination. This can mean additional trips to the bathroom, and also potential urine leaking particularly when you laugh or sneeze, which can be managed with panty liners. Pay attention to urinary function and health, because a urinary tract infection can have serious consequences during pregnancy.
Pressure in general from the growing fetus, as well as other factors, can cause back pain in many third trimester pregnant women. Naturally released pregnancy hormones designed to relax the pelvic joints can cause discomfort in the hips and lower back. Providing firm support while sitting, sleeping, and standing will help alleviate pain.
Pressure on the veins circulating blood to the legs can cause swelling and heaviness, as well as the development of varicose veins. Elevating the legs, wearing compression stockings if applicable and exposing areas of swelling to cooling agents will help manage symptoms.

Constant Growth:

Of course, a constant state of fetal growth is what can trigger many of the third trimester symptoms. However, your own growth and physical changes during late pregnancy are to be expected as well. As the natural time for breastfeeding approaches, your breasts may have expanded to weigh up to two pounds more than before pregnancy.

Expect to gain about a pound per week during the third trimester, resulting in a total of 25 to 35 pounds by the end of your pregnancy. This added weight is comprised of fluid volume, extra fat stores, enlarged breasts and uterus, the placenta, and of course, baby weight. Moms-to-be are encouraged to consume more calories during the third trimester, and to be sure to make nutritious dietary choices.

Your Feelings and Emotions:

As the big day approaches, apprehension about the delivery may grow. Taking a childbirth class with your partner or alone can help prepare you and quell some of those fears. Sharing with and learning from other expectant mothers can be a welcome means of support and understanding, as both experienced mothers and new moms-to-be are sympathetic to what you are feeling.

Your healthcare provider may schedule more frequent exams with you during the third trimester. Take this extra time to make sure all questions pertaining to the birth are addressed, helping to minimize your worries about the big day. Exploring pain management options and working out a birth plan with your provider will help you feel in control and mentally prepared for the delivery process.