In this article:
Transitioning into the Third Trimester
The beginning of the 27th week marks crucial physiological changes for both the mother and the baby. At this last stretch, mother’s instincts will be stronger, and you will visualise delivery and motherhood. Transitioning into the third month also marks a mother's mental nesting. They begin organising their thoughts, visualising labour, and raising their baby.The foetal growth pattern stabilises compared to the previous trimesters. This means doctors can make accurate evaluations about the baby's development, potential risks like preterm birth, low, or high growth for the gestational age. This is where ultrasounds become crucial. Research says that many women feel closer to their baby at this point(1).
27 Weeks Foetal Growth
During the final trimester, the baby looks like a cauliflower head, weighing approximately 1kg and measuring around 36.6 centimetres. At week 27 and for the weeks ahead, placental health is the key indicator for foetal growth. Studies show that small foetuses show major growth when placental volume increases.The baby’s lungs are maturing well. The lung growth is proceeding from the canalicular phase to the saccular phase, which is important for the baby’s respiratory health after birth. Fat starts to accumulate in the baby's body after birth to increase weight and provide insulation.
Your baby can hear and recognise your and your partner’s voice. However, the sound may be muffled for two reasons. The sound has to travel through the uterus and the amniotic fluid. And the baby’s ears are shielded with a waxy layer called vernix caseosa. It guards the ears from getting chapped or wrinkled from continuous amniotic fluid exposure.
Your Body in The Last Trimester of Pregnancy
From frequent bathroom trips to clumsiness, the final trimester will keep you busy. By week 27, the blood volume has increased significantly, resulting in more fluid retention in the feet. The cardiac output is also increased, and you will experience stronger contractions due to a bulging heart.The growing uterus reduces blood flow to the heart by slightly pressing against the diaphragm, which can lead to dizziness. Your body already knows that during labour, bleeding will be heavy. So naturally, your body develops a hypercoagulable state, creating blood clots to prevent blood loss.
Your kidneys and ureters protrude slightly, resulting in more frequent urination. The increased water retention may lead to slight puffiness in the lower extremities. Fluctuations in blood glucose levels may lead to gestational diabetes.
Mothers should prioritise balanced meals, light snacks, and hydration to support the overall pregnancy. Optimal intake of iron, folate, and B12 supports red blood cell production.
How to Prepare for the Final Stretch?
The baby’s rapid growth and birth preparations will heighten your anxiety. Preparing for the final stretch of pregnancy is not just about eating well and packing your bag. They are equally important, but there are a lot more things that need your equal attention.Nutrition for Two
Don't just eat well. Eat what's good for both of you. Add an extra 450 quality calories daily. Growing babies demand high amounts of nutrients in the last trimester. Iron, folate, vitamin B12, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids should be included in your daily intake. Aim to include more natural nutrient sources, such as whole greens, lean proteins, dairy, and healthy fats.Optimal Hydration
Maintain optimal hydration to support blood circulation, amniotic fluid levels, and reduce Braxton-Hicks contractions. Optimal hydration also helps manage symptoms like swelling. Instead of plain water, consider having flavoured drinks or Himalayan salt water for that extra boost.Embrace Prenatal Exercise
Most women ignore exercise during gestation. Moderate prenatal exercises, such as yoga, swimming, and walking, are great ways to prepare your body for labour. Exercise in the seventh month of pregnancy keeps your mind active, boosts blood circulation, and soothes body and back pain.Focus on Sleep Position
At 27 weeks and beyond, good quality sleep is important but also challenging. The hormonal shifts will hinder your sleep quality. Your baby’s growing foetal movements may keep you awake at night, so prioritise quality rest. Sleeping on your left side strengthens blood flow to the baby and kidneys. A pillow under the belly and between the legs can add extra comfort.Bond with Your Baby
Your baby’s brain and senses are growing rapidly. This is the best time to engage with the foetal movement. At the start of the third trimester, the movement will be jerky, but as labour approaches, the movement will be more coordinated.The coming weeks will demand your scattered attention. From taking care of your health to perfecting the nursery, you will be on your feet for a long time. These overall emotions, along with the physical discomfort, might make you tired, clumsy, and even angry. If things feel all over the place, considering therapy at week 27 can provide you with comfort and organise your thoughts. Involving your partner or taking a birth class will give you a better idea of what to expect and how to tackle childbirth.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Welcome to the Third Trimester: The Final Countdown Begins
- What are the common 3rd-trimester symptoms?
During the 3rd trimester, expectant mothers experience some uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms as a result of an expanding uterus and sending nutrients for the baby's growth. Symptoms like swollen feet, back pain, Braxton Hicks contractions and abdominal tightness are more prominent at week 27. - How to be happy during pregnancy in the third trimester?
Tips to feel relaxed and be happy in the last trimester- Stay hydrated
- Take care of your diet
- Prioritise rest
- Do some light workouts
- Sleep on the left side
- Attend therapy
- Engage with the baby
- Listen to soothing music
- How to improve baby brain development during pregnancy in the third trimester?
To support and improve the baby’s brain development, focus on adding brain-boosting nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium, folate, zinc and copper. Taking supplements is good, but trying to take these nutrients via natural sources helps absorb the goodness better.