Congrats mama, you are carrying the gift of life, and we couldn’t be more excited for you. Here’s a guide on what exactly to expect!
It may feel like your tummy can’t grow anymore, but your bump is about to get a whole lot bigger. Thankfully, it just means you’re a few weeks closer to meeting the greatest gift of all. This blog will outline all you need to know before your due date!
When exactly does the third trimester start?
If you are entering your third trimester, it means that you are in the final stage of your pregnancy – woohoo! You are approximately 28 weeks pregnant, and this trimester continues until you give birth.
So, simply put, your third trimester happens roughly between week 28 and week 40. This is between months 7 and 8. That being said, babies work on their own time, so keep this in mind that your baby could come either before or after your expected due date.
In the meantime, just hang in there, mommy! You are almost at the finish line!
Discover: 5 Prenatal Classes for a Fit and Healthy Pregnancy
Are there any symptoms in the third trimester?
During this time, most expectant moms do experience a few symptoms, but pregnancy is very much a personal journey. Everyone’s pregnancy experience is going to be different. That being said, below are a few common symptoms associated with the third trimester:
Foetal activity
You will definitely start to feel your little one moving around in your belly. From kicking, to hiccups and flipping around. As the baby enters the final trimester, they begin to experience major changes and lots of growth. And trust us when we say that you will definitely begin to feel all of it.
Nausea
It is very common for expecting moms to experience quite a bit of nausea during the first and third trimesters. Generally, it is said that nausea tends to build up the closer that you get to giving birth. Remember to keep your body hydrated. Plain crackers are an absolute lifesaver for nausea too!
Headaches
There are many factors that can trigger a headache when you are pregnant. This includes certain smells, motion sickness, lack of sleep or stress. To help ease the likelihood of an unwarranted headache, try keeping a healthy routine. This includes eating well, exercising and drinking plenty of fluids!
Heartburn
This is a major symptom that a lot of moms-to-be experience. During the last few weeks of pregnancy, you will most likely experience a lot of acid reflux. This is because your uterus is pushing your stomach upwards, which releases that kind of burning sensation in your chest. Definitely consult your doctor if you are experiencing serious heartburn/acid reflux.
Read this: What’s The Deal with Cravings During Pregnancy?
When should you consult a doctor?
During the third trimester, you will notice that as your delivery day slowly begins to approach you will begin to experience false labour symptoms. That is totally normal, but you may want to head over to the doctor if you experience the following:
- Blood
- Pelvic pressure
- Labour contractions
- High fever
- Any time you are feeling concerned for either you or the baby
Remember to always trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, rather trust the advice of a medical professional, and head to your nearest ER or call your physician.
Third trimester essentials
You have most likely read every birthing book you could find, which is a great way to ease some of your anxiety as you approach your due date. That being said, here is a quick refresher course on a few things you should keep in mind during these final weeks.
Get all of your baby gear ready
This is around the time that you want to make sure that you’ve got all of your baby essentials like the pram, cot, baby monitor, and car seat. These are the things that you will essentially need in order to bring the baby home.
Check up on your birthing plan
Once you are in full labour, you won’t be in the mood to figure out how you want to give birth. Plan ahead and finalise important aspects like whether or not you want an epidural. Figure out who you want cutting the umbilical cord, etc.
Read next: Breastfeeding Tips: Everything you need to know in the first week
Make sure your health insurance is in check
There are a lot of costs involved in giving birth and even general third-trimester check-ups. The bills quickly add up and generally shock most expectant parents. Save yourself the headache and financial strain and ensure that your health insurance is geared and ready to take care of most of those costs. That way you can focus on the baby rather than the bill.
Find comfort knowing that you and your little one are safe and protected with the help of Oneplan Health Insurance.
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