Third Trimester
During the third trimester of pregnancy you can expect to gain from 10 to 15 pounds, at this time the fetus accounts for 7 to 8 pounds of weight gain

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You are getting closer and closer to the day of welcoming your baby into the world. Although you may be thrilled about becoming a parent, you will likely experience concerns as well, which is perfectly normal. With good support of your partner, family members, and friends, you will get through this phase. During the final phase of pregnancy, you can expect to gain from 10 to 15 pounds. If you find that you are gaining more or less, you might consider discussing any concerns with your doctor. At this time, the fetus accounts for 7 to 8 pounds of this weight gain.

Some typical changes that you will experience during this trimester include:

• Increased Back Strain - As you gain weight and the fetus settles lower in the uterus during the final weeks, you may notice increased back strain and find it difficult to sleep. Many women have difficulty in finding a comfortable position, resulting in significant tossing and turning.

A pregnancy pillow or body pillow can help alleviate some of the discomfort. It is usually most comfortable to sleep on your side with your knees bent during the last weeks. The body pillow placed between your knees and under your belly will take some of the pressure off your spine and make you more comfortable.

• Engorged Breasts – Women who are smaller breasted tend to find this part of pregnancy to be a wonderful fringe benefit. Choose supportive pregnancy and nursing bras, preferably made from 100% cotton, to fully support the added weight and keep you comfortable.

Sometimes your breasts may leak a bit of fluid as they prepare for breast-feeding. If this is bothersome to you, simply use breast pads in your bra to absorb the moisture and prevent chafing.

• Shortness of Breath – This is caused by the fetus’ pressure on your diaphragm and stomach. Quite a bit of room is being taken up at this point and the compression of some organs will make you feel out of breath and a bit light-headed at times.

• Elevated Blood Pressure – Do not confuse this with high blood pressure. The elevation in your blood pressure is considered a normal part of this last trimester. Unless it goes up a considerable amount, you should not be concerned. Your doctor will be monitoring you closely during this trimester and will keep an eye on this potential problem.

• Aggressive Kicking – The growth of the fetus is part of the last trimester. Because the fetus has grown so much and there is little room left, it will sometimes seem as though it is punching you. Watch your belly as the fetus moves, which can be very entertaining. This is a wonderful experience and as see a tiny hand or foot press against your skin, you will be amazed at how clearly you can see the outline of fingers and toes!

• Swollen Hands and Feet – As you retain fluid, this will occur. Elevate your feet as often as you can, and remove rings that might be uncomfortable. If you like, wear your wedding ring on a chain around your neck. This is a much better solution than having to have the ring cut off if your hands swell too much.

As the due date draws nearer, your doctor will ask you to come in for weekly check-ups to chart the growth and progress of the fetus. These visits are very important and should not be neglected. These routine checkups should not cause concern as they are intended to ensure that both you and the fetus are doing fine.

“Nesting Instinct” is the term used for the last few weeks when you suddenly feel the urge to be constantly on the move, rearranging the baby’s room, going over the list of essentials, cleaning as you have never cleaned before, and double-checking everything. This is a natural mothering instinct to give you the energy and stamina for childbirth. While you may feel as though you can do anything, be sure not to overdo things since you will need strength for the actual birthing process.

Being very pregnant and uncomfortable, you may find yourself becoming impatient and snappy. After all, you are not as mobile as you would like to be, you are tired of waiting, and it seems like you have been pregnant for two years, like an elephant! Find ways to pamper yourself and enjoy these last few weeks. Even thought it will seem as thought they drag by, keep your mind busy so your focus is not on the time. Ask your husband for back rubs to ease your discomfort, treat yourself to a pedicure, read a good book, rent some old-time movies, and find ways to enjoy the time before your give birth. Once your baby arrives, time will pass so quickly that you will find it hard to keep up!

The last trimester is when the fetus is using all its energy to prepare a grand entrance into the world.

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