The third trimester of pregnancy is the final stage of gestation, and it is an exciting time for expectant parents. During this trimester, the baby continues to grow and develop. This is the time when the mother’s body begins to prepare for labor and delivery. The third trimester begins at 28 weeks of pregnancy and...
Cuddle - 0 to 12 MonthsEverything you should know in third trimester of pregnancy
The third trimester of pregnancy is the final stage of gestation, and it is an exciting time for expectant parents. During this trimester, the baby continues to grow and develop. This is the time when the mother’s body begins to prepare for labor and delivery.
The third trimester begins at 28 weeks of pregnancy and lasts until delivery. During this time, the baby’s organs continue to mature and develop, and they gain weight and fat. The baby’s bones also harden, and they can open and close their eyes.
Body changes for the mother in the third trimester:
Here are some of the body changes that a woman may experience during the third trimester:
- Increased weight and size: The baby continues to grow and gain weight during the third trimester, which can cause the mother to gain weight as well. The uterus also expands to accommodate the baby, which can cause the abdomen to enlarge and the breasts to swell.
- Changes in posture: As the baby grows and the abdomen enlarges, a woman’s center of gravity shifts. This can cause changes in posture, such as increased curvature in the lower back and a rounding of the shoulders. These changes can cause discomfort and pain, and may require adjustments in daily activities and exercise routines.
- Swelling: The baby’s growth and the increased blood flow to the uterus can cause swelling in the feet, ankles, and hands. This swelling, also known as edema, is typically worse in the later stages of pregnancy and can be relieved by resting and elevating the affected areas.
- Discharge: The increased blood flow and hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause an increase in vaginal discharge. The discharge may be thin and watery, or thick and white. It is usually harmless, but it’s important to talk to your doctor if the discharge has a strong odor or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as itching or burning.
Baby growth in the third trimester
Here are some of the ways in which the baby grows and develops during the third trimester:
- Weight gain: The baby continues to gain weight during the third trimester, and by the end of the trimester, they will have doubled their birth weight. The baby’s fat layers also continue to develop, providing insulation and energy reserves.
- Organ development: The baby’s organs continue to mature and develop during the third trimester. The lungs, liver, and immune system all reach their full maturity, and the baby’s heart pumps around 300 quarts of blood per day.
- Bone development: The baby’s bones continue to harden and strengthen during the third trimester. The bones in the skull remain soft and flexible, allowing for easier passage through the birth canal. The bones in the rest of the body, however, harden and become more solid.
- Sensory development: The baby’s senses continue to develop during the third trimester. They can hear sounds from outside the uterus. They may be able to see light and dark through the closed eyelids. The baby may also be able to respond to touch, and they may have a strong startle reflex.
During the third trimester, it’s important for the mother to take care of herself and the baby. She should continue to eat a healthy, balanced diet and stay active. She should also attend regular prenatal care visits, where her doctor will monitor the baby’s growth and development and check for any potential complications.
In the final weeks of the third trimester, the mother may experience signs of labor, such as contractions, abdominal pressure, and vaginal discharge. She should discuss a labor and delivery plan with her doctor, and make sure to have a hospital bag packed and ready to go.
Overall, the third trimester of pregnancy is an exciting time for expectant parents. The baby continues to grow and develop, and the mother’s body prepares for labor and delivery. By taking good care of themselves and the baby, and being prepared for labor and delivery, parents can make the most of this special time.
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