Congratulations mama-to-be! You’ve officially entered the home stretch of your pregnancy journey. The third trimester (weeks 28 – 40) brings the finish line in sight (aka your baby gets to meet you). You’re probably feeling excited, nervous, and maybe a little uncomfortable (hello, back pain and swollen feet!). From new symptoms to final preparations, a lot is happening with your body and baby.
Let’s break down what to expect in the third trimester, how your little one is growing, and some survival tips to help you through these final weeks!
Third Trimester Pregnancy Symptoms
By now, you’ve probably noticed that pregnancy has shifted from “this is exciting” to “this is getting a little uncomfortable!”. The third trimester brings new symptoms as your baby grows and your body prepares for labour.
Common Third-Trimester Symptoms
- Shortness of breath: your baby is taking up more space, making it harder to breathe deeply.
- Heartburn and Indigestion: your uterus is pushing on your stomach, which can lead to acid reflux.
- Back pain and Pelvic pressure: the weight of your baby (and that pregnancy waddle) can put extra strain on your back.
- Swelling (feet, ankles, hands): your body retains more fluid, so don’t be surprised if your shoes feel tighter.
- Frequent urination: your baby is pressing on your bladder, meaning bathroom trips every 10 minutes!
- Braxton Hicks’s contractions: the ‘practice’ contractions help prepare your body for labour.
- Difficulty Sleeping: between baby’s kicks, bathroom trips, and general discomfort, sleep can be a challenge.
- Leaky breasts: your body is already producing colostrum, the first milk for your baby.
- Hemorrhoids and Constipation: the pregnancy hormone “progesterone” and increased pressure on your rectum can cause these uncomfortable conditions.
Tip: if you experience severe swelling, blurred vision, or intense headaches, call your doctor right away, as these could be signs of preeclampsia.
Foetal Development in the Third Trimester
Your baby is growing rapidly and preparing for life outside the womb! Here’s what’s happening inside your belly:
Weeks 28 – 30: your baby’s brain develops rapidly and can open and close their eyes. They also start practising breathing movements!
Weeks 31 – 34: your baby gains fat, making their skin less wrinkled. Their bones harden, but the skull remains soft for birth.
Week 35 – 37: your baby’s lungs are almost fully developed, and they respond to light, sound, and touch.
Weeks 38 – 40: your baby is considered full-term at 37 weeks. Most babies settle head-down in preparation for birth.
Exciting Fact: your baby recognises your voice and may even react to music or familiar sounds.
Third-Trimester Survival Tips
The last weeks of pregnancy can be challenging, but these tips can help you stay comfortable and prepared:
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: helps with energy levels, digestion, and baby’s development; prevents dehydration; and reduces swelling.
- Rest When You Can: nap when you can and use pillows for support.
- Stay Active: gentle walks, prenatal yoga, or stretching can reduce swelling and back pain.
- Wear Comfortable Clothes: now is not the time for tight waistbands. Embrace maternity clothes that give you room to breathe.
- Use Support Garments: belly bands, supportive maternity bras, and compression socks can provide relief from various discomforts.
- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, meditation or prenatal massage can help manage stress and discomfort.
- Prepare for Labour: read up on breathing techniques, pain management, and delivery options:
- Accept Help: when people offer help with meals, errands, or setting up the nursery, say yes!
Third Trimester To-do List
There’s a lot to accomplish before your baby’s arrival. Here’s a checklist to help you stay organised:
Weeks 28 – 32
- Finalise your baby registry if you haven’t already.
- Start thinking about your birth preference or birth plan.
- Research paediatricians and schedule interviews.
- Take a hospital tour if available.
- Sign up for childbirth and newborn care classes.
- Start preparing the nursery.
Weeks 33 – 36
- Pack your hospital bag.
- Install the car seat.
- Wash baby clothes, bedding, and blankets.
- Stock up on household essentials and postpartum supplies.
- Prepare and freeze meals for after your baby arrives.
- Make plans for pet care during your hospital stay if needed.
Weeks 37 – 40
- Finalise your maternity leave.
- Set up automatic bill payments for the postpartum period.
- Review your health insurance to understand what’s covered for delivery and add your baby to your policy.
- Prepare for childcare if you’re returning to work, research and secure childcare options.
- Prepare a list of people to notify when your baby arrives.
- Clean your home (or better yet, have someone else do it).
- Schedule any self-care appointments you want before your baby arrives.
- Rest as much as possible – the real marathon begins soon!
The Final Countdown
The third trimester is tough, but every ache, kick, and sleepless night means you’re one step closer to meeting your baby.
Take it one day at a time, listen to your body, and don’t stress about perfection. You’ve made it this far, and you’re doing an amazing job!
Treasure these last moments of pregnancy when you have your little one all to yourself!
