Third Trimester of Pregnancy: A Guide to What to Expect
Third Trimester of Pregnancy: A Guide to What to Expect
What is the third trimester?
The third trimester is your grand finale of pregnancy magic, kicking off at weeks 28 and coasting right through week 40. This is when your little star is in full-throttle growth mode, gearing up for their grand entrance.
They’re honing those vital breathing skills. Their brain is blooming at lightning speed. They’re stacking up those irresistible baby pounds.
You might notice something new as you glide into weeks 34 to 36. Your baby begins their final descent, nestling lower into your pelvis. It’s a beautiful hint that they’re nearly ready to say hello to the world and you.
And let’s talk about you. Your body performs wonders, stretching and adapting to accommodate your precious cargo. This stage is pivotal as you rev up for the momentous birth day. So, why take this time a little slower, bask in these final weeks, and bubble up with excitement for that incredible instant when you embrace your baby for the first time?
So, let’s dive into what’s cooking each week in this breathtaking finale of your pregnancy. Here’s what you and your growing baby are up to:
Pregnancy Week 28
At 28 weeks, your baby is as big as a large eggplant, about 14.80 inches. Imagine that! They can even blink and have tiny eyelashes. Their brain is busy developing, and they’re starting to have dreams when they sleep. Also, your baby is getting chubbier, making their skin look less wrinkly. They’re even practicing breathing, getting ready for the big world outside.
For you, it’s normal to feel more tired these days. You might also have Braxton Hicks contractions, which are like practice contractions for labor. Some other things you might notice are swollen legs, pregnancy rashes, feeling short of breath, and your breasts might start leaking a bit. It’s all part of the journey.
Now’s a good time to think about how you want your labor and delivery to go. Chat with your healthcare provider about your birth plan. It’s just about ensuring you’re both on the same page when your little one decides it’s time to meet you!
Pregnancy Week 29
At 29 weeks, your little one is about the size of a butternut squash, measuring nearly 15.74 inches. They’re getting stronger daily, and you likely feel more of their kicks and wiggles. Their muscles and lungs are developing nicely, and their head is growing to keep up with their busy brain. Now’s a good time to ensure you get plenty of calcium-rich foods like cheese, yogurt, and milk – essential for your baby’s growing bones.
Your belly’s getting bigger, throwing off your balance and making you feel clumsier than usual. The shortness of breath might still hang around as your baby takes up more room. And slathering on some moisturizer can be a significant relief if your skin is stretching and itching, especially around your belly and breasts.
You might also be dealing with a mix of heartburn, cramps, feeling lightheaded, anemia, and headaches. It’s quite the journey, but you’re handling it like a champ! Take breaks, relax, and keep those feet up to reduce swelling. And if you haven’t settled on a baby name yet, now could be the perfect time to start brainstorming – it’s one of the more fun parts of this adventure!
Note: What Is Anemia?
Anemia is like when your body is running low on its little red blood cell ‘delivery trucks’ that bring oxygen to every part of your body. If you don’t have enough of these trucks, or they’re not packed full of oxygen, you’ll likely feel more tired and weak. Your body isn’t getting the total energy boost it needs.
Now, when you’re expecting, anemia can pop up more often. Here’s why: your body is in overdrive, making extra blood for your growing baby, and sometimes, you might not have enough red blood cells. This often happens if you need more iron or specific vitamins. Iron is like the premium gas for these red blood cell trucks. So, eating iron-rich foods and sticking to your prenatal vitamins and doctor’s appointments is super important. It’s all about preventing or managing anemia so you and your baby can stay healthy, joyful, and full of pep.
Anemia during pregnancy can pose several risks, understanding these is crucial for expecting mothers.
Premature Birth: Anemia might lead to having your baby a bit sooner than expected, or it might be smaller at birth.
Postpartum Depression: If you’re feeling unusually down after giving birth, it could be linked to anemia. It’s important to talk to your doctor about it.
Poor Fetal Development: Anemia means less oxygen for your little one inside, which can affect their growth. We want them to be strong and healthy—increased.
Risk During Labor: Having anemia can mean a bit more bleeding when you give birth. Doctors will watch out for this, being aware is good.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
- Anemia in pregnancy is usually diagnosed through a blood test measuring hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.
- Treatment typically involves taking iron supplements and dietary changes to increase iron intake.
Iron-Rich Foods for Strong Moms and Babies:
- Lean meats (think chicken or turkey)
- Fish (an excellent reason for some salmon!)
- Beans (for some yummy chili or soups)
- Leafy greens (like spinach in salads or sandwiches)
- Iron-fortified cereals (for a quick and nutritious breakfast)
Remember, taking care of yourself means taking care of your baby too. So, let’s ensure you get all the nutrients you need!
Pregnancy Week 30
At 30 weeks, your little one is about the size of a giant cabbage, nearly 15.95 inches. They’re bulking up now, getting chubbier and smoother skin. Plus, they’re busy practicing breathing, even though their lungs aren’t quite ready yet. Your baby might have a cute mop of hair on their head by now, and they can even open their eyes and see a little bit. Their brain is getting all wrinkly, gearing up for all the learning they’ll do.
Your body’s doing a lot of adjusting to make room for your growing baby. You might be dealing with heartburn or indigestion – smaller, more frequent meals can help you sleep comfortably. That might be a challenge, too. And then there’s the not-so-fun stuff like brown discharge, swelling, and those roller coaster mood swings. It is all part and parcel of the journey but always chat with your doctor if anything’s worrying you.
It’s a fab time to start getting the baby’s room ready and picking out those teeny-tiny clothes – so cute! Just remember, it’s super important to take breaks and chill out. You’re growing a whole human, after all! Self-care is vital, so put your feet up when necessary and take care of yourself.
Pregnancy Week 31
You’re 31 weeks along now! Your baby is as big as a coconut, about 16.46 inches. They’re getting good at sensing things – they can turn their head, react to sounds and touches, and might even be holding their feet or sucking their thumb. You’re probably feeling them move often, doing flips and kicks, especially at night. It’s a good sign they’re healthy and active. Plus, their brain is growing super fast!
You might feel worn out, and back pain can be a nuisance. You could also start feeling some Braxton Hicks contractions – these are like practice runs for labor, but if they get too frequent or painful, definitely tell your doctor. Swelling in your feet and ankles is expected, so keep moving and drink plenty of water. And oh, there might be some leaky breasts, lots of bathroom trips, sciatica pain, and trouble sleeping. It’s all part of the pregnancy journey.
Now’s a great time to get your birth plan ready and talk it over with your doctor. If you haven’t already, check out where you’ll give birth. And start getting your hospital bag packed – it is better to be ready early!
Note: What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is like this super annoying pain that starts in your lower back and zips through your hip and bum, right down to your leg. It’s all because something’s squishing your sciatic nerve – a big, important nerve that runs from your back, through your hips, and down to your feet.
When you’re pregnant, this can happen more quickly. Your growing baby is taking up much space and putting pressure on everything inside, including that nerve. Plus, with your body changing, like putting on some pregnancy weight and your center of gravity shifting, that nerve can get even more squeezed.
The pain can feel sharp or be a naggy ache, but it usually just bothers one side of your body. It’s common during pregnancy and usually sorts itself out after a bit. But if it’s bugging you, chat with your doctor. They can share some nifty tips to help ease the pain, like specific ways to sit or stand or some gentle exercises.
Pregnancy Week 32
At 32 weeks, your baby’s about the size of a jicama, measuring nearly 16.93 inches! Their bones are all there, but they’re still soft and getting ready for the outside world. Your little one is even practicing breathing and might start getting into position for birth – head down position and all. You’ll likely have a checkup now since doctors like seeing you more often as your due date approaches. Usually, there’s no ultrasound at this stage unless your doctor needs to check on something specific.
Your baby isn’t transparent anymore – they’re gaining body fat and looking more like the newborn you’ll soon meet.
As your baby grows, you may feel more squashed and uncomfortable. Say hello to more trips to the bathroom; your baby is pressing on your bladder! Your dreams might get more vivid with all the hormones and excitement about your little one. Other things you might notice: swollen hands, stretch marks, a change in your appetite, some vaginal discharge, darker nipples, and maybe even some milk leakage.
Now’s a good time to keep on track with your prenatal visits, consider your maternity leave, and look into childcare options. And remember, a bit of gentle exercise like prenatal yoga can be beneficial for your discomfort.
Pregnancy Week 33
At 33 weeks, your little one is about as big as a pineapple, measuring around 17.36 inches! They’re getting chunkier by the day, and their immune system is getting stronger. Your baby’s even getting the hang of breathing, sucking, and swallowing all at the same time. The bones in their skull are super flexible, which will help them quickly move through the birth canal during birth.
Since it’s getting crowded in your womb, your baby might not be flipping and rolling as much, but you should still feel them moving about the same amount. If your baby’s head is down, getting ready for their big debut, you might feel their kicks more up near your ribs.
You’re noticing your giant belly, which might make sleeping trickier. Try using pillows to get comfy. You might also be feeling those Braxton Hicks contractions more often. Other things you might be dealing with? Swollen labia, running to the bathroom a lot, a bit of pregnancy brain, feeling short of breath, and getting overheated easily.
If you’re considering having a baby shower, now’s a great time. Also, watch your baby’s movements – they should be pretty regular. Let your healthcare provider know if you notice any significant changes in how much they’re moving.
Note: Swollen Labia
Swollen labia during pregnancy is when the outer and inner “lips” around your vagina get a bit puffy. It’s pretty normal, especially later in your pregnancy. Think of it like this: there’s more blood flowing down there, and your body’s holding onto more fluid, which can make things swell up. Plus, your growing baby bump puts pressure on your pelvic area’s veins, causing the swelling to be more noticeable.
It might feel weird or uncomfortable, but it’s usually nothing to worry about. It should get better after your baby arrives. To help yourself feel more cozy, you can:
- Wear loose and comfortable clothes.
- Put your feet up when you can.
- Sleep on your side.
- Try a cold compress for a little while to ease the swelling.
If you start feeling itchiness, pain, or anything else that seems off, call your doctor to ensure everything’s alright.
Pregnancy Week 34
At 34 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe, measuring around 17.84 inches. They’re getting smarter and stronger daily, especially their lungs and brain. Plus, they’re now really good at keeping warm all by themselves. They can feel when you chat or play music and even react to lights and your touch. Soon, their little ears will be all set to hear everything happening.
Your munchkin is still growing, gaining about a half pound each week. If you’re due for an ultrasound, it’s just to ensure everything’s on track, especially if there are any particular things to watch out for in your pregnancy. Also, your baby’s getting a thicker layer of that white, creamy stuff called vernix that keeps their skin safe and sound.
You may feel zapped with energy, with your feet and ankles getting puffy. It’s super important to listen to your body. If you’re feeling drained or something doesn’t feel right, it’s time to chat with your doctor.
On top of the regular pregnancy stuff like constipation, practice labor pains (Braxton Hicks), a bit more discharge, and feeling like you’re always too warm, be sure to eat lots of iron and protein-packed foods.
You’re in the home stretch now! Keep prepping for your baby’s big arrival, start taking it a little easier. Slow down, put your feet up, and remember to care for yourself.
Pregnancy Week 35
At 35 weeks, your baby is as big as a honeydew melon, measuring nearly 18.23 inches. Their skin is getting all smooth and soft. Plus, their liver and kidneys are working like a charm now. Your little one is probably getting ready for their big entrance, likely moving into the head down position. And guess what? Their fingernails have grown suitable to their fingertips, and their toenails will catch up in a few weeks.
As your baby settles lower in your belly, you might feel a bit more pressure down there. The good news? This might give you a break from heartburn and being short of breath. But yep, you’ll probably be making even more trips to the bathroom. You might also feel more wiped out, with some aches in your back and pelvis, not to mention constipation, a bit more discharge, blurry vision, and maybe even hemorrhoids.
Now’s a great time to double-check your hospital bag to ensure you’ve got everything for you and the baby. If you’re considering a maternity photo shoot, this could be the perfect time to capture your pregnancy glow. Keep an eye on how much your baby’s moving, try to rest up whenever possible.
Pregnancy Week 36
At about 36 weeks, your baby is as long as a big bunch of romaine lettuce, around 18.6 inches. They’re saying goodbye to their fuzzy hair and creamy vernix, keeping them cozy. Your baby is beefing up, getting ready for their grand entrance. You’ll be popping into the doctor’s office weekly to ensure everything’s ticking along nicely. Your baby’s bones are toughening up but are still slightly bendy. Even though it’s getting snug, you’ll still feel those little stretches and kicks.
Your baby is ready to roll, with their circulation and immune system all set. Plus, they’re nearly ready to breathe on their own.
You might get hit with a wave of energy to get things ready for the baby – that’s your nesting instinct. Just take it easy, and don’t overwork yourself. Your doctor might start checking if your body’s gearing up for labor. Also, you might deal with headaches, a bit more discharge, pelvic pain, and dizziness, and your feet and ankles might puff up a bit.
Tie up any loose ends with your baby prep. Put your feet up, relax when you can, and keep track of your baby’s kicks and wiggles. And if you’ve got any worries or questions about labor, now’s a great time to chat with your healthcare provider.
Pregnancy Week 37
At 37 weeks, your little one is about the size of some Swiss chard, measuring roughly 19 inches. They are officially early term now, which means all their tiny organs are ready to do their thing outside your belly. They might have a sweet little head of hair, and their toenails are all grown out. You might feel your baby dropping lower, preparing for their big arrival. They’re busy in there practicing breathing, sucking, and blinking, and they’ve even got their first sticky poo (called meconium) lined up for that very first diaper change.
Their lungs, brain, and nervous system are just putting on the final touches. And yep, they’re still getting chubbier – perfect for all those cuddles coming your way.
You’re in what they call ‘early term.’ Full term is 39 weeks, but you’re getting close now! You might be feeling more uncomfortable, especially when trying to sleep. Look for signs that labor might be starting, like regular contractions or if your water breaks. Your doctor or midwife might check to see if your cervix is getting ready for the big day.
You could be seeing some spotting, feeling a lot of pressure in your tummy, noticing more stretch marks, having some contractions, leaking a bit from your breasts, dealing with gas, or suffering from lower back pain.
Ensure you’ve got your doctor’s number handy, try to rest as much as possible. Keep feeling for those baby movements – they’re essential. And have your hospital bag all set and your plan ready for when it’s go-time.
Pregnancy Week 38
At 38 weeks pregnant, your baby is as long as a leek, about 19.41 inches. Their brain and lungs are putting the finishing touches on their development, gearing up for life outside your tummy. Your baby might be moving down into your pelvis, ready for their big arrival. With your baby getting more extensive, feeling squished and uncomfortable is normal. Your baby has a nice layer of chub for smooth skin and has shed most of that fuzzy lanugo hair.
At your doctor visits, they’ll check to make sure your baby’s head is down and starting to get into position in your pelvis.
You might feel nervous and excited as your due date gets closer. Those Braxton Hicks contractions might get a bit more intense – just your body’s way of practicing for labor. Keep an eye out for real labor signs, try to stay as chill as you can. You might be dealing with swollen ankles, some wild dreams, trouble sleeping, quick sharp pains (that’s a ‘lightning crotch’), more vaginal discharge, and an itchy belly.
Now’s the time to take it easy, eat well, and keep up with your prenatal check-ups. Stay in touch with your healthcare provider. It’s also good to brush up on those labor signs to know when it’s go-time.
Pregnancy Week 39
At 39 weeks pregnant, you’re in the home stretch with a baby inside about as big as a small watermelon, measuring almost 19.72 inches. They’re fully cooked and ready for life outside your tummy. When they’re prepared to say hello, they’ll nudge you! At your check-ups now, your doctor might check if your cervix is getting ready – softening and opening up for the big day.
Your little one is still adding some baby body fat, which will help keep them warm when cuddling with you. And yep, they can turn their little heads now! Keep feeling for those kicks and movements, and if you think it’s go-time (like if your water breaks), call your doctor immediately.
You may feel pressure as your baby gets into position. It’s normal to feel excited and nervous about meeting your baby. Sleeping might be tricky, and you might visit the bathroom even more. You could also have a bit of diarrhea, mood swings, and tiredness.
Try to relax and enjoy these last few days before your baby arrives. Keep your phone charged and your car ready, just in case. And keep an eye on those baby movements – you’ll want to know when it’s time to head to the hospital. As your baby gears up for their grand entrance, you’ll notice their weight gain tapering off. Be on the lookout for those early signs of labor – it’s getting close to welcoming your little one. Almost there, mama.
Pregnancy Week 40
Woohoo, 40 weeks! Your baby is now about the size of a small pumpkin, measuring around 20.08 inches long and weighs somewhere between 6 to 9 pounds. You’ve hit your official due date, but babies have their schedules and might not arrive on time. Your little one’s organs can adapt to life outside your belly.
You’re at the finish line! You’re probably feeling a whirlwind of emotions – excitement, nerves, and, yeah, a bit of discomfort. It’s normal to have more muscular Braxton Hicks contractions now and maybe even feel like labor’s starting when it’s not quite there yet. You might be dealing with back pain, struggling to get a good night’s sleep, or feeling some pelvic pain. Keep an eye out for your water breaking – that’s a big sign things are moving along.
Stay in touch with your healthcare provider. If you still need to start labor, chat about what’s next, like induction. Stay as chill as possible and watch for those real-deal labor signs – regular contractions or your water breaking. You’ve got this, mama! Any day now, you’ll be meeting your little pumpkin!
Pregnancy Week 41
At 41 weeks, you’ve officially hit the “post-term” stage. Your baby, snug as a bug, is still growing in there. They’re about the size of a small pumpkin, over 20.39 inches long and weighs 7 to 8 pounds, maybe more. Your little one is fully developed and putting on more weight, preparing for their big debut.
You might be feeling a mix of excitement and a bit of impatience. It’s common to feel a little uncomfortable now with the extra weight and size of your belly. Those Braxton Hicks contractions could be getting more robust, and you might have some pelvic discomfort as your body gets ready for labor. Plus, you’re visiting the bathroom much more, thanks to the pressure on your bladder.
Keep tracking your baby’s movements – they should still be active. Your healthcare provider might start talking about induction, especially if they think both you and the baby should deliver sooner rather than later. Keep going to those prenatal appointments, and don’t hesitate to chat about any questions or concerns you have.
Most babies are born by 41 weeks, but some take a little longer. As long as your healthcare provider is closely watching that everything looks good, try to stay patient and positive. Your little one is almost here! Rest as much as you can and keep everything ready for when labor starts.
