Welcome to the third trimester! You are going to hold your baby soon, and you will be entering a new journey, motherhood! Here is everything to know about the third trimester.

When are you in your third trimester?

The first trimester is from week 28 to week 40. That is month 7, 8, and 9. 

What happens during the third trimester?

Everything will begin hurting during this trimester but remember you are almost done. Your baby’s bones are fully formed. He can open and close his eyes, hear your voice, and is sensitive to light. Your baby will be full term at 37 weeks.

What are some symptoms you might have during the second trimester?

• Ligament Aches and Pains

• Increase in Urination

• Mood Swings

• Varicose Veins

• Hemorrhoids

• Heartburn  

• Change in Skin Pigmentation

• Leg Cramps and Itchy Belly

• Mild Swelling

• Sensitive Teeth

• Backache

• Mood Swings

• Braxton Hicks Contraction

• Shortness of Breath

• Insomnia

What are some concerning symptoms? You should see a doctor if you have the following.

• Vaginal Bleeding: If you are spotting or have a heavy flow, all your doctor right away.

• Severe Abdominal Pain: If you feel pain in your abdominal area, call your doctor or go to the nearest ER.
• Excessive Swelling: Could be a sign of preeclampsia, call your doctor.

• Excessive Thirst and Fatigue: Could be a sign of gestational diabetes, call your doctor.

How much weight should you gain during the third trimester?

You should gain 0.5 to 1 pound a week during your third trimester. You should have put on a total of about 25 to 35 pounds from the beginning to the end of your pregnancy. If you are overweight, you should gain less. If you are underweight, you should gain more.

Things To Do During The Third Trimester

• Continue taking a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 mcg of folic acid.
• Finish your baby registry, and begin preparing for the baby.
• Light Exercise
• Eating healthy food. 
• Continue moisturizing.
• Visit a dentist.
• Prepare a hospital bag. Click to see what to pack in your hospital bag.
• Don’t forget to get the TDAP vaccine. 

Things To Avoid During The Third Trimester

• Alcohol
• Drugs
• Strenuous Exercise
• Uncooked Meat including Shellfish and Sushi
• Heat including Hot Tubs and Saunas 
• Cat Litter
• Smoking
• Too Much Caffeine

 What to expect at your third trimester prenatal visits?

You will be evaluated many times during this trimester. You will see your doctor once every 2 weeks until week 36 if there is nothing wrong. After week 36, you will be seen weekly.

• Your blood Pressure and Urine: They will be checked every time to ensure you have no symptoms of preeclampsia.

• Blood Test for Anemia

• Your doctor will examine your belly, baby’s heartbeat, and your weight. 

• Group B Strep: You will be tested for this bacteria. If you test positive, you will be given antibiotics during labor.

• Cervix for Dilation: After week 36, your doctor may start checking your cervix for dilation.

• Position of Baby: Around week 36, your doctor will perform an ultrasound to make sure your baby’s head is positioned downward.

This is everything to know about the third trimester. If you have more questions, leave a comment.