In the home stretch: Entering the third trimester of pregnancy
The reality of your impending new arrival will become crystal clear as you begin the third trimester. This stage of pregnancy is often marked with excitement and trepidation about how much your life is about to change. As your trusted medical partners, our team of San Antonio women’s health experts will continue to offer the support and expert care you deserve.
What happens with fetal development in the third trimester?
The final 12 weeks of pregnancy, or weeks 28 to 40, are considered the third trimester. During these last few months, your little one continues to grow in weight and size. At this point, the fetus can see and hear, but the brain, kidneys and lungs will continue to develop. By the time you deliver, your baby will likely weigh between 6 and 9 pounds, and measure approximately 19 to 21 inches in length.
What should I expect during this stage of pregnancy?
In this final trimester, some women experience more physical discomfort. Your developing baby takes up more space in the abdominal area, which can cause pressure on the bladder, increased swelling in the extremities, stretch marks, constipation, and heartburn. Some patients also feel Braxton Hicks contractions – mild, irregular cramping that doesn’t progress.
As your due date approaches, you may feel a burst of energy and the strong urge to prepare for your baby’s birth. This is what people call “nesting.” Many women also feel more emotional during this time. Mood swings – from happy to scared to sad to nervous – can appear out of nowhere. They are generally caused by hormone fluctuations and aren’t typically cause for concern.
Tips for managing the end of your pregnancy
In the earlier stages of pregnancy, you visited your doctor for monthly appointments. During the third trimester, our San Antonio women’s health experts like to see our patients every two weeks until week 36. At that point, we will schedule weekly appointments until delivery. Our team will check your urine, monitor your weight, and assess fetal position and heart rate.
Consider these suggestions to take care of yourself and the baby in these last few months.
- Eat healthy meals and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Slow down and get extra rest whenever possible.
- Attend birthing classes to understand what’s ahead.
- Talk to your partner and your family about your birth plan.
- Ask for help or support when you need it.
- Address any new or unusual symptoms with your doctor.
Once you enter the third trimester, you will experience significant emotional and physical changes. Our San Antonio women’s health experts understand the excitement and stress this stage of pregnancy can create for our patients. Contact our office with any questions or concerns.
