Pregnancy (cont.)
The 3rd Trimester Stage of Pregnancy
You're in the home stretch! Start thinking about breastfeeding, learn to
spot the signs of labor and get the facts on cesarean sections.
Changes in Your Body
Some of the same discomforts you had in your second
trimester will continue. Plus, many women find breathing even more difficult and notice they have to go
to the bathroom even more often. This is because the baby is getting bigger and
it is putting more pressure on your organs. Don't worry, your baby is fine and
these problems will lessen once you give birth.
The following aches and pains often appear for the first time during the
third trimester:
- Heartburn
- Swelling of the ankles, fingers, and face. If you
notice any sudden or extreme swelling or if you gain a lot of weight really
quickly, call your doctor right away. This could be a sign of preeclampsia or toxemia.
- Hemorrhoids
- Tender breasts
- Trouble sleeping
As you near your due date, your cervix becomes
thinner and softer (called effacing). This is a normal, natural process that
helps the birth canal (vagina) to open during the birthing process. Your doctor
can check your progress with a vaginal exam.
Weight Gain
Everyone gains weight at different rates. On average, it is
normal to gain about one pound per week, or three to four pounds per month,
during the third trimester. By the end of your pregnancy you should have gained,
on average, about 25 to 30 pounds. About 7 1/2 pounds of that weight should be
the baby.
Next: Changes in Your Baby »
- Birth Control Pills (Oral Contraceptives) - Read about the different types of birth control pills (oral contraceptives) such as monophasic, biphasic, and triphasic. Find out which birth control pill may be the best for you.
- Ultrasound - Learn an ultrasound procedure, and conditions and diseases it assists in diagnosing and screening like tumors, cysts, heart conditions and more.
- Yeast Infection - Learn about vaginal yeast infection symptoms like vaginal burning, itching, soreness discharge, and pain during sex and urination. Treatment information is included in the information.
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