Third Trimester Of Pregnancy- Getting Ready For D-Day

The third trimester of pregnancy is a difficult phase for the mother to be. The baby is growing bigger in the mother’s womb and she may feel breathless and want to frequently pass water, as the uterus exerts pressure on the urinary bladder. The mother may suffer from a swollen face and ankles, tender breasts and heartburn. Any signs of too much swelling or too much weight gain should be reported to the doctor immediately, as this could mean complications in your pregnancy. Your sleep pattern could also be disturbed during this time.

Weight Gain

You will gain about 25 to 30 pounds by the end of your pregnancy, out of which your baby will be about 7 ½ pounds. You will probably gain about a pound a week or three to four pounds in a month.

Your Rapidly Developing Baby

The fetus grows in the womb at this stage at a rapid pace. Its brain is developing fast and so are its five senses. Your baby has less space to move in the womb and so you do not feel its movements too much. Your baby practices breathing inside you and is able to respond to a high-pitched voice. The baby may now drop down into the birth canal in its birth position. This will give some relief to you. You will be able to breathe more freely, because of the reduced pressure on the lungs and rib cage.

You And Your Doctor

This is the time, when visits to your doctor will increase. You must visit your doctor at least every tw weeks during your third trimester. Ask your doctor questions, clear your doubts on labor and a caesarian section. Ask him if you are going to have a caesarian section or a vaginal birth. If you prefer to have a vaginal birth, what sort of medication can you take for pain relief during labor?

You must also read up good books and magazines to help you stay well informed about your condition, health and delivering a safe baby at the end of your third trimester of pregnancy.