Third Trimester of Pregnancy: What to Expect

The last three months of pregnancy mark a pivotal period for expectant parents, brimming with both profound transformation and a sense of apprehension.

Typically referred to as the third trimester, the last phase of pregnancy ushers in a wave of anticipation, as the prospect of welcoming a new life becomes more real. During this phase, expectant mothers undergo myriad physical changes and contend with heightened levels of uncertainty.

What Is the Third Trimester of Pregnancy?

The third trimester is the last stage of pregnancy. It is typically from week 29 to the end of the pregnancy, which is week 40. During this phase, the foetus grows significantly, as its organs fully mature to survive outside the womb.

Furthermore, baby shifts position to head down into your pelvic area to get ready for birth.

Why Is the Third Trimester of Pregnancy Important?

The third trimester of pregnancy represents the final stretch of the gestational journey. During this stage, the baby’s vital organs and systems mature, reaching a state of readiness for life outside the womb.

During this stage, the foetus exhibits movements such as stretching, kicking, and grasping motions. Their eyes are capable of sensing light, and they may have some hair on the head. Fingernails have grown to the tips of the fingers, and limbs begin to look chubby. In male foetuses, the testicles start descending into the scrotum.

The foetus typically positions itself head-down, readying for the birthing process. The circulatory and musculoskeletal systems are fully developed, ensuring proper functioning and support for the growing baby.

As your due date approaches, you might start experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions, which are false contractions that should not be painful. However, when you begin to experience true labour pains, there will be no mistaking them.

Real contractions are characterised by a tightening of the abdomen that is accompanied by pain, and the pain subsides when the muscles relax. These contractions are a clear sign that labour is starting.

What Are the Commonly Observed Symptoms During the Third Trimester?

During the third trimester of pregnancy, the expectant mother may experience several common signs and symptoms, such as:

• Braxton Hicks contractions
• Backaches
• Headaches
• Stretch marks
• Sleeping problems
• Bloating and constipation
• Leg cramps
• Dizziness&
• Haemorrhoids
• Heartburn
• Frequent urination
• Urine infection

What Should an Expectant Mother Do During the Third Trimester?

During the third trimester, it is crucial for expectant mothers to prioritise their health and the well-being of their baby.

Regular prenatal check-ups

Attending regular prenatal check-ups become increasingly important, with appointments scheduled every two weeks from week 32, and then weekly from week 36 onwards.

These check-ups allow obstetricians to monitor both the mother’s health and the baby’s development closely.

Find out more about antenatal screening during the third trimester.

Be vigilant about pregnancy-related health conditions

It is vital for expectant mothers to be vigilant about any pregnancy-related issues that may arise.

Seeking medical attention promptly is necessary if experiencing prolonged abdominal pain, unexplained vaginal bleeding, pain during urination, abnormal heart rate patterns, and severe headaches.

Monitor foetal movement

Monitoring foetal movement is another key aspect of third-trimester care. Decreased foetal movement could signal potential issues with the baby’s health. Factors such as reduced or excessive amniotic fluid, the baby’s position, maternal stress, or dehydration can influence foetal movement and should be addressed promptly.

Other matters to be practiced

• Staying hydrated is essential to prevent dehydration.
• Practice pelvic floor exercises to prepare for labour and have bladder control.
• A balanced diet rich in fibre and protein is crucial for meeting the nutritional needs of both the mother and the baby.
• Avoid uncooked meat, including beef, poultry, and pork, as well as fish with high levels of mercury, raw shellfish, raw eggs, soft cheeses, and unpasteurised milk products.
• Stop smoking and avoid alcohol.
• Reduce caffeine intake during pregnancy.
• Stop contact sports and activities that put pressure on your abdomen.
• Avoid lifting heavy objects that may put pressure on the abdomen and augment the risk of bleeding.
• Avoid hot tubs and saunas.
• The best sleeping position during the third trimester is lying on your left side whilst using pregnancy support pillows. Other positions involve placing a pillow between your legs and another under the abdomen to relieve pressure on your lower back. Avoid sleeping flat on your back, as it may potentially lead to reduced blood flow to the baby.

Read our comprehensive guide to prenatal care.

Find out what to expect in the first trimester and second trimester of your pregnancy journey.

How Should I Prepare for My Baby’s Birth?

As you choose between a natural birth or a caesarean section, consider some of these helpful birth preparation tips:

• Understand more about your birthing options, and the pros and cons of each.
• Attend childbirth education classes, watch birth videos, read books, and research positioning exercises.
• Practice deep breathing to help reduce labour pains.
• Exercise every day to prepare your body for labour.
• Communicate your preferences to your OBGYN.

Make an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals

The third trimester marks a pivotal period in pregnancy as the baby’s organs and systems reach maturity, while the mother’s body undergoes substantial changes to support the growing baby.

Regular prenatal check-ups are essential during this time to monitor the health of both mother and baby. Moreover, the third trimester serves as a period of readiness and empowerment for the mother as she prepares for childbirth, fostering confidence and assurance during this transformative journey.

Get in touch with us to book an appointment with our team of O&G specialists today. We offer a comprehensive medical care including prenatal and postnatal care. Find out more about our Obstetrics and Gynaecology Services at your nearest Pantai Hospital.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.