The third trimester of pregnancy can be an extremely emotionally and physically challenging stage of pregnancy. The size and positioning of the baby might make it impossible for you to feel comfortable and at this point, you might be tired of pregnancy and eager for the baby to arrive, just so your body feels a little better. Try to remain positive as this is the end of your pregnancy and your baby will soon be in your arms. As you feel your pregnancy progress, your baby’s movements become more obvious, and as exciting as these movements can be, they also cause you a lot of discomfort.
Signs Your Third Trimester Just Started
Braxton Hicks Contractions
You might start to feel mild, irregular contractions in your abdomen that start like a tightening of the belly. These are more likely to happen in the evening or the afternoon, especially after some physical activity. These contractions will most likely be more frequent as your due date approaches. If they become too strong or uncomfortable, call your doctor.Shortness of Breath
As your uterus expands and takes more space to accommodate your baby, it pushes your lungs. This can cause some shortness of breath and make you feel winded. Practice better posture to give your lungs more space. Backaches
A pregnancy hormone known as relaxin causes the connective tissue holding the bones together to relax, especially in the pelvic area. While this prepares your body for delivering the baby, it can cause more strain on your back. This symptom is particularly uncomfortable during the third trimester as you get closer to your due date. To alleviate discomfort, choose chairs with good back support, or add comfortable cushions to your chair.Heartburn
Pregnancy hormones can make your digestive system irregular. These hormones relax the valve between your stomach and oesophagus, which allows the acids from the stomach to reflux to your oesophagus. To ease some of the heartburn, eat smaller, more frequent meals. Avoid fried or spicy food as these can trigger gastrointestinal distress. If your heartburn is severe, consult your doctor and ask them about safe medications. Frequent Urination
As your baby moves deeper toward your pelvis, the added pressure on your bladder will cause you to urinate more frequently. You might also leak urine, especially when you laugh, cough, bend, sneeze, or lift things. Consider using pantyliners if this becomes a problem. If you think you might be leaking amniotic fluid, call your doctor immediately.Spider Veins and Varicose Veins
Increased blood circulation can cause small red or purple veins to show up on your face, neck, and arms. This should ideally fade after delivery. You might also notice these veins on your legs. They can be itchy or uncomfortable, but once again, if you are doubtful about any new symptoms, check with your doctor. Hemorrhoids
Increased blood circulation can also cause the veins in your rectal area to become itchy and painful. To ease this swelling, you can stay active with some regular forms of exercise and elevate your legs frequently. You should also include a lot of fibre in your diet and stay hydrated. Consider soaking in a warm tub or applying witch hazel pads.Emotional Changes
As you get closer to your due date, you will feel a lot of new emotions regarding the whole process of the birth, like how long it will last or if it will be very painful. Consider taking childbirth classes at the later stages of your pregnancy, if you have not done so already. You will learn more about what to expect and meet other women going through the same things. It's wise to establish a network of supporters.. You might also feel a mix of emotions as the reality of becoming a parent starts to set in. Swelling
Swelling towards the end of pregnancy is normal and only means your body is retaining more water than usual. This water tends to collect at the lowest parts of your body, especially if you stay in a humid area or if you have been standing for longer periods. The pressure of your growing uterus can also cause the legs to swell up. To reduce the swelling, try to take frequent walks, avoid standing for long periods, and wear comfortable shoes that do not constrict your feet.
Insomnia
Insomnia is especially common during the third trimester, mostly due to discomfort and waking up in the middle of the night. This can be caused due to back pain, the need to urinate, or even strange dreams, a common symptom during pregnancy. It can be managed by using a pregnancy pillow for better sleep and practising gentle exercises like prenatal yoga and mindfulness.Nesting Instinct
Many women feel the urge to prepare for the baby’s arrival by cleaning and organizing their space. This is called a nesting instinct and is a symptom of the third trimester. Baby’s Positioning
During the third trimester the baby’s position changes to a head-down position in preparation for the birth. At this point, your doctor will monitor the baby’s positions, movements and development to monitor how close you are to giving birth. You will also start to see some signs that labour may be approaching, such as the loss of the mucus plug, your baby dropping lower into the pelvis and an increased intensity of Braxton Hicks contractions.Labour Signs
As the end of your pregnancy approaches, it might be a good idea to stay informed about the signs of labour. If you have sharp, painful contractions that last 20-40 seconds and gradually progress to last longer, it could be a sign that you are going into labour. Other signs you need to watch out for include back pain, your water breaking or cramps that feel like a period or make you feel like going to the toilet. The third trimester brings many uncomfortable symptoms, but they can be managed with some patience and diligence on your part. Use a pregnancy pillow to get better sleep, and practice gentle exercises like prenatal yoga and mindfulness to ease the anxiety the prospect of childbirth is bringing.
As always, remember to consult your doctor if you see any symptoms that make you feel uncomfortable.
