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of pregnant women experience more discomfort during the third trimester, mainly due to physical changes such as leg cramps, weight gain, back pain, and swelling in limbs.
Over 46 per cent of women have trouble sleeping in the third trimester. This is mostly due to frequent urination and active foetal movements. This phase can feel even more overwhelming due to emotional stress. It often comes from pressure around childbirth and family roles. It is a time when support and proper care matter the most. Without it, the emotional load can intensify and affect both physical and mental well-being.
Third Trimester Body Changes You Might Notice
At 27 weeks, the baby weighs approximately 0.9 kg. By 32 weeks, this increases to approximately 1.8 to 2 kg. The baby can weigh around 3.6 kg by the time of a full-term delivery.The baby typically grows by an average of 6 inches during the third trimester, which can contribute to the maximum weight gain during this period. Other changes you may notice in your body include:
- Your uterus expands to house your growing baby. By the end of the third trimester, the average baby grows to the size of a watermelon.
- Your breasts enlarge as they prepare for lactation and may leak colostrum.
- Your skin may develop stretch marks on your abdomen, breasts, hips, or thighs.
- As your body produces more melanin during the third trimester, you might notice a dark line, called linea nigra, running down your belly. You may also notice dark patches on your face known as melasma.
- Your hair appears thicker and fuller because hormonal changes slow hair shedding during this trimester.
- Hormonal changes cause your nipples and areolas to darken as your body prepares for breastfeeding.
Foetal Development in the Third Trimester
The baby goes through many important developments during this stage to get ready for life after birth. Take a look at an overview of the key developments.Week 32
By week 32 of pregnancy, the baby's bones are fully developed. Sensory capabilities become more advanced at this stage. The baby can open and close its eyes and is capable of blinking. It can also respond to external stimuli such as light and sound. The baby’s body begins to accumulate important minerals such as iron and calcium.Week 36
By week 36, the baby is almost ready for birth, and its position in the womb is crucial. The baby should ideally be head-down to prepare for a vaginal delivery. If the baby is in a breech or transverse position, medical help may be needed. A doctor might try a procedure called an external cephalic version. This involves manually rotating the baby to the correct position. If this doesn’t work or isn’t safe, the doctor may suggest a caesarean section. This is when an incision is made in the abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby safely.Week 37
The baby is considered full-term at 37 weeks, meaning it is fully developed and ready to survive outside the womb. All major organs, such as the lungs, heart, and digestive system, are mature and able to function on their own.Common Third Trimester Symptoms
As the body prepares for labour and delivery, various challenging symptoms may become more noticeable:- Shortness of breath: The growing baby exerts pressure beneath the rib cage, which can cause a feeling of restricted breathing. Lying on your back or leaning back may make this feeling worse.
- Heart palpitations: Fluttering or pounding in your chest may occur, and it can sometimes feel like your heart is skipping beats. This is often caused by slower blood flow back to the heart due to the growing uterus. It usually lessens later in pregnancy.
- Heartburn and indigestion: The third trimester often brings digestive challenges like heartburn and constipation. As the uterus grows, it adds pressure on the stomach and intestines. This can lead to acid flowing back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn or constipation.
- Spider veins and varicose veins: Increased blood flow from the growing uterus can lead to vascular changes in the third trimester. Spider veins are small, red or purplish veins that may appear on the face, neck, or arms. Varicose veins are larger, swollen veins, typically on the legs, that may feel achy or heavy.
- Frequent urination: As the baby moves lower into the pelvis in preparation for birth, it puts more pressure on the bladder. This causes the need to urinate more often.
- Oedema: Swelling, or oedema, is common after 30 weeks of pregnancy. This happens because your body makes about 60 per cent more blood during this time. As your uterus grows, it puts pressure on the large veins that carry blood back to your heart. This slows down circulation and causes fluid to collect in your lower limbs. Swelling is more noticeable after standing for long periods.
- Insomnia: Trouble falling or staying asleep is common in the third trimester. A growing belly can make it hard to get comfortable at night. Sleep may also be disrupted by frequent urination, leg cramps, or increased anxiety related to labour and delivery.
- Restless leg syndrome: It is marked by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. Sometimes it's paired with sensations such as tingling, burning or throbbing.
- Back and hip pain: The extra weight during pregnancy shifts your centre of gravity. This makes you lean forward or to one side, which puts strain on your lower back and hips.
- Breast pain: Hormonal changes in the third trimester prepare the breasts for lactation. During this time, breasts grow in size, tenderness, and sensitivity.
The third trimester can feel like an emotional ride. Hormonal shifts, physical discomfort, and the thought of becoming a parent can all play a part. You might feel anxious about labour or find yourself dealing with mood swings. Many people also get the urge to clean or organise their home, which is called the nesting instinct. If these emotions start to feel too heavy, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional.
Potential Complications in the Third Trimester?
The third trimester can come with certain risks. A few complications to be mindful of during this stage of pregnancy are:- Preterm labour
- Preeclampsia
- Gestational diabetes
- Vaginal bleeding
- Urinary tract infections
- Premature rupture of membranes
- Placenta previa
- Placental abruption
- Breech position
- Post-term pregnancy
Importance of Prenatal Care
Prenatal care during the third trimester is important for the health and safety of the mother and the baby. Regular checkups allow healthcare professionals to monitor the baby’s growth, position and heart rate. These visits help detect and manage potential issues such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or preterm labour.During each pregnancy, it’s recommended to get a dose of the tetanus-diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine. The ideal time to receive this vaccine is between weeks 27 and 36 of pregnancy. This protects your baby from whooping cough before they can be vaccinated. Even if you’ve had the vaccine before, it’s still advised to get it again during pregnancy.
You will also require screening tests for health conditions like:
- Gestational diabetes
- Iron deficiency anaemia
- Group B strep
How to Maintain Your Health During the Third Trimester?
Proper nutrition can help you feel your best as you approach your due date. Follow these tips to maintain your health during the third trimester:- Focus on nutrient-rich foods like protein, iron, and calcium.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Walking, prenatal yoga, or stretching.
- Sleep and rest adequately.
- Practice deep breathing in order to manage stress.
- No alcohol, smoking, or unapproved medications.
- Maintain good oral health. Poor dental hygiene has been associated with a higher risk of premature labour.
The third trimester can be tough both physically and emotionally. Eating well and attending regular prenatal visits really matter during this stage. Knowing what symptoms to expect and being aware of possible risks helps keep both mother and baby healthy.
FAQs
- What are some common symptoms during the third trimester of pregnancy?
Common symptoms are frequent urination, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, swelling in the feet and ankles, and back pain. - What complications should I watch for in the third trimester of pregnancy?
Complications like preterm labor, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and vaginal bleeding can occur during this stage.
