The third trimester – those exciting, yet sometimes uncomfortable, final months of pregnancy – is a whirlwind of preparation and anticipation. Your body is working overtime to nurture your growing baby, and emotions can run the gamut from excitement to nervousness. This guide will equip you with information and resources to navigate this crucial stage, ensuring a smooth transition into parenthood.
Physical Changes in Late Pregnancy
As your baby prepares for arrival, you’ll experience significant physical changes. Increased weight gain, particularly in the abdomen and breasts, is normal. Your centre of gravity will shift, affecting your balance and posture. Fatigue is common, so prioritize rest and delegate tasks whenever possible. Allow your partner to slowly take over the tasks he will need to do when the baby first arrives & you are learning how to feed your gorgeous baby.
Prenatal Care in the Third Trimester
Regular prenatal appointments are vital in the third trimester. Your doctor will monitor your baby’s growth and development through checkups, ultrasounds, and possibly additional tests. Discuss any concerns you might have, such as Braxton- Hicks contractions (practice contractions) Any reduced foetal movement needs to be addressed immediately, ringing your midwife for advice.
Preparing for Birth
Birth Map: Develop a birth map outlining your preferences for pain management, birthing environment, and involvement of your partner or support person. Consider how you will pivot if the unexpected occurs. Remember, this is a guideline, and you can adapt it as needed during labour
Birthing Classes: Consider attending childbirth education classes with your partner. These classes can help you understand the birthing process, pain management techniques, and newborn care basics.
Hospital Bag: Pack a well-stocked hospital bag for yourself, your baby, and your partner by 36 weeks. Include comfortable clothing, toiletries, essential baby items (nappies, wipes, outfit to wear home), and anything that might make you feel more comfortable during your stay (music &headphones). Also pack anything that might be helpful during the Labour -massage tools, TENS machine, essential oils & electric burner, heat pack, stress balls, comb, visualization pictures, favourite music etc.
Nesting Instinct
The “nesting instinct” – a surge in the urge to organize and prepare for your baby’s arrival – is a common third-trimester phenomenon. Take advantage of this by setting up the nursery, washing baby clothes, and stocking up on essential supplies.
It is good to do research about baby equipment but all babies are individuals so it is often better to wait for their arrival to see what they like.
You will need a safe place for your baby to sleep & a safe way of transporting your baby home from hospital
Emotional Wellbeing
The third trimester is often a time of heightened emotions. You might experience anxiety about childbirth, worry about your parenting abilities, or feel overwhelmed by the preparations. Talk openly with your partner, family, or friends. Additionally, support services like Raising Children, Cope, Panda, Gidget, Karitane & Tresillian offer resources and support groups specifically tailored for expectant Parents.
Self-Care Tips for a Comfortable Third Trimester
- Prioritize sleep: Develop a regular sleep schedule and take naps whenever possible.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to nourish yourself and your baby.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat fatigue and prevent constipation.
- Exercise regularly: Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga or prenatal pilates can improve circulation, reduce back pain, and boost your mood.
- Connect with other mums: Join pregnancy support groups online or in your community to connect with other expectant mothers and share experiences.
The Royal Women’s Hospital (The Women’s: https://www.thewomens.org.au/) provides a wealth of information on late pregnancy topics such as foetal development, common discomforts, and preparing for birth. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Embrace the changes, listen to your body, and seek support when needed. The third trimester may be challenging, but it’s also a beautiful time of anticipation and preparation for the incredible experience of parenthood.
We hope you found this article valuable. To gain a deeper understanding of the third trimester & late pregnancy go to Our Classes and Book a Having a Baby Class most relevant to you. We offer in-person classes, online classes and a combination of both online and in-person, to cater for everyone’s needs for the antenatal classes that suit best. I’d love to see you there.
Carmel Heazlewood