The third trimester of pregnancy, covering weeks 28 through 40, is the final stretch before meeting your baby. This period brings noticeable physical changes as your body supports significant fetal growth and prepares for birth. You’ll experience shifts in energy, new symptoms, and emotional ups and downs, all part of the normal process.
During these weeks, your baby gains weight rapidly, their organs mature, and they get ready to enter the world. Meanwhile, your prenatal visits will likely become more frequent focused on monitoring your health and your baby’s progress. Understanding what to expect can help you feel confident and prepared as you approach this special time.
For a clear, step-by-step explanation of what happens during this phase, check out this helpful video: What to expect in your Third Trimester of pregnancy | Pregnancy Week-by-Week.
Physical Changes and Common Symptoms in the Third Trimester
As you enter the third trimester of pregnancy, your body goes through noticeable physical changes designed to support your baby’s rapid growth. Alongside excitement, you may experience discomforts and symptoms that can feel challenging. Understanding these signs helps you manage them effectively and stay comfortable. Let’s explore some common physical changes and how to handle them confidently.
Recognizing and Managing Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions are often called “practice contractions.” They are irregular, usually painless tightenings of your uterus that start appearing in the second or third trimester. Unlike real labor contractions, Braxton Hicks:
- Are inconsistent and don’t get closer together over time.
- Tend to be mild and don’t increase in intensity.
- Rarely cause significant discomfort or back pain.
You might feel these contractions as a brief hardening of your belly, sometimes triggered by dehydration, overexertion, or a full bladder. To ease them:
- Drink plenty of water, as dehydration can bring on Braxton Hicks.
- Change your position—lying down or sitting comfortably can help.
- Take slow, deep breaths or enjoy a warm shower or bath (not hot) to relax your muscles.
If contractions become regular, painful, or are accompanied by bleeding, fluid leakage, or significant changes in fetal movement, contact your healthcare provider immediately. For a deeper look into Braxton Hicks contractions, the Cleveland Clinic offers a detailed explanation here.
Handling Musculoskeletal Discomforts
As your baby grows, you may notice your lower back aching, your hips feeling sore, or pelvic pressure increasing. These discomforts stem from hormonal changes that loosen ligaments and shifts in your posture as your center of gravity moves forward. Managing these aches can make a big difference in your daily comfort.
Here are some practical tips:
- Maintain good posture. Keep your shoulders relaxed and hips square to avoid extra strain.
- Use support garments like a maternity belt or well-fitted supportive underwear to offload pressure from your lower back.
- Engage in gentle exercise. Short walks, prenatal yoga, and light stretching help strengthen muscles and improve blood flow.
- Optimize sleep comfort. Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees or consider a pregnancy pillow for extra support.
Avoid heavy lifting and standing for long periods if you can. If you experience sharp or persistent pain that disrupts your activities, check with your healthcare provider. They can rule out conditions like sciatica or pelvic girdle pain and suggest tailored treatments. For more information on handling back pain during pregnancy, you can explore advice from the Cleveland Clinic Back Pain During Pregnancy page.
Digestive and Circulatory Changes
The third trimester is a time when you’ll likely notice digestive and circulatory symptoms like heartburn, constipation, and varicose veins. These are caused by hormonal shifts slowing digestion and increased pressure from your growing uterus.
Managing heartburn and constipation:
- Eat smaller meals more frequently instead of large meals to reduce stomach pressure.
- Cut back on spicy, greasy, or acidic foods that trigger heartburn.
- Stay upright after eating and avoid lying down too soon.
- Boost fiber intake with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and drink plenty of water to ease constipation.
Handling varicose veins and swelling:
- Move regularly with gentle walks to improve circulation.
- Elevate your legs during rest periods to reduce swelling.
- Wear compression stockings if recommended by your doctor.
- Avoid tight clothing around your waist and legs to prevent restricting blood flow.
If symptoms become severe or you notice sudden swelling, persistent pain, or discoloration of veins, reach out to your care team. The Cleveland Clinic has a useful guide on managing heartburn during pregnancy here and information on varicose veins during pregnancy here.
Every pregnancy is unique, but many women find relief with small lifestyle changes and careful symptom monitoring. These adjustments help make your third trimester more comfortable as you near the exciting day of birth.
Fetal Growth and Development Milestones
The third trimester is a whirlwind of development for your baby. During these final weeks, your baby’s body shifts into full preparation mode for life outside the womb. From bone growth to positioning, each milestone shapes how your little one will thrive once born. Tracking these changes gives you a front-row seat to your baby’s transformation.
Monitoring Baby’s Movements and Kick Counts
Feeling your baby move is one of the most reassuring signs that healthy development is underway. Tracking fetal movements, often called kick counts, is a simple yet powerful way to keep tabs on your baby’s well-being during pregnancy.
Why monitor fetal movements?
Your baby’s movements reflect their health and activity levels. When they are strong and consistent, it means your baby is getting enough oxygen and nutrients. If movements slow down or stop, it might signal a problem that needs medical attention.
How to perform kick counts:
- Choose a time of day when your baby is usually active—after a meal or when you’re resting.
- Sit or lie down comfortably and focus on your baby’s movements.
- Count each distinct movement: kicks, flutters, rolls, or swishes.
- Aim to count 10 movements within 2 hours, but you might feel 10 kicks in less time. Don’t worry if it takes longer now and then; what’s most important is consistency over time.
What counts as normal activity?
Every baby has their own rhythm, but most expectant moms feel regular movements throughout the day. A typical goal is feeling at least 10 movements in 2 hours during the third trimester. If you consistently notice fewer movements or a drop in activity, it’s important to act.
When to notify your healthcare provider:
- If you feel fewer than 10 movements in 2 hours during your usual baby-watch time.
- If movements suddenly stop or become significantly less frequent.
- If your baby’s movements feel weak or slower than normal.
Don’t hesitate to call your healthcare provider if anything feels off. Early intervention can make a big difference. For detailed guidance on tracking kick counts and understanding their importance, trusted sources like the Cleveland Clinic’s Kick Counts guide and Count the Kicks offer clear instructions and helpful advice.
By keeping a simple daily routine of movement monitoring, you stay connected with your baby and play a crucial role in their health right up to delivery.
Prenatal Care and Medical Monitoring
As your pregnancy moves into the third trimester, prenatal care steps up to keep both you and your baby safe and healthy. Your healthcare provider will recommend more frequent visits—typically every two weeks from week 28 to 36, then weekly until delivery. These visits include important screenings, tests, and discussions to track your baby’s progress, monitor your health, and prepare you for birth.
Screenings and Vaccinations
During the third trimester, expect several key screenings designed to catch potential issues early and help keep complications away from you and your baby.
- Gestational Diabetes Screening: Usually done between 24 and 28 weeks, this test measures your blood sugar levels to spot diabetes that develops during pregnancy. If your provider hasn’t done it yet, they’ll schedule it early in the third trimester.
- Iron Deficiency Anemia Check: Blood tests will monitor your iron levels since anemia can cause fatigue and increase risks during delivery.
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) Test: This culture is performed between 36 and 38 weeks. It checks for bacteria that can pass to your baby during birth. If positive, antibiotics during labor reduce infection risks.
- Other blood and urine tests may be done to assess overall health, looking out for issues like preeclampsia or infections.
For vaccines, the Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) is recommended between 27 and 36 weeks. It helps protect your newborn from whooping cough during the first months after birth. Some providers also suggest vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in certain cases to help shield babies from severe lung infections.
Each visit offers a chance to review your birth plan, answer questions about labor, and discuss any concerns you have. This ongoing monitoring is the safety net ensuring your pregnancy is on track.
For more detailed information about routine prenatal tests, you can visit Kaiser Permanente’s prenatal screening guide or check the comprehensive overview on Freeman Health System’s third trimester screenings.
Photo by MART PRODUCTION
Recognizing Warning Signs and When to Seek Care
Even with regular checkups, it’s crucial to know when your body is sending urgent signals. Certain warning signs mean you should contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital immediately:
- Painful, regular contractions: True labor contractions come at steady intervals and increase in intensity. If you notice contractions that come every 5 minutes lasting 60 seconds or more, it’s time to get checked.
- Heavy vaginal bleeding: Any bleeding more than spotting needs urgent evaluation to rule out issues like placental problems.
- Severe swelling: Sudden swelling in your hands, face, or legs, especially if accompanied by headaches or vision changes, suggests preeclampsia.
- Decreased or no fetal movement: After 28 weeks, you should feel your baby moving regularly. A noticeable drop or absence in movements can signal distress.
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C): This might indicate infection, which can be risky for both of you.
Trust your feelings; it’s better to be cautious. If you experience any of these symptoms or feel unsure about new or unusual discomforts, call your provider right away. Early care makes a big difference for your pregnancy outcome.
For guidance on labor signs and when to seek medical care, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers clear patient advice.
By staying alert to these signs and keeping up with your prenatal appointments, you’re giving your baby the best start possible.
Emotional Changes and Practical Preparations for Labor and Delivery
As you near the end of your pregnancy, it’s natural to experience a mix of emotions alongside the physical changes. The third trimester brings feelings that can shift quickly—from excitement and joy to anxiety and uncertainty. These emotions are a normal part of preparing for labor and delivery. Alongside these feelings, practical steps to get ready for your baby’s arrival will help you feel more confident and calm.
Emotional Changes in the Third Trimester
In these last weeks, many women notice a swirling mix of feelings. You might feel excited about meeting your baby but also nervous about labor pain and the adjustment to parenthood. Anxiety can pop up as you think about how labor will go or wonder if you’re truly ready. At the same time, mood swings and restlessness can be caused by hormonal shifts and physical discomforts.
- Anxiety and fears: Concerns about labor, delivery, or even being “ready” are common. You may find yourself worrying about pain management, possible complications, or your ability to care for a newborn. It helps to talk openly with your partner or healthcare provider about these feelings.
- Excitement and anticipation: Dreams about your baby and planning for their arrival often fill your mind. This excitement can feel overwhelming but also energizing.
- Mood swings: Emotional ups and downs haven’t disappeared. Hormones, tiredness, and discomfort may cause feelings to change fast—from elation to crying unexpectedly. This is your body’s natural way of managing stress.
One helpful way to handle these emotions is through self-care strategies like deep breathing, meditation, journaling your thoughts, or gentle prenatal yoga. Support from friends, family, or pregnancy support groups can also ease stress. Taking a childbirth education class not only prepares you for what to expect but provides a space to ask questions and meet others traveling this path. You can find options locally or online like the classes offered by Ohio State Wexner Medical Center.
Practical Preparations for Labor, Delivery, and Life After Birth
Getting your practical plans in place reduces stress and lets you focus on what really matters when labor approaches.
1. Birth Plan Preparation
Creating a birth plan helps you communicate your preferences about labor and delivery—pain relief options, who will be present, and whether you want certain interventions. Write it down, review it with your healthcare provider, and be open to flexibility since labor can be unpredictable. The process of making a plan can make you feel more in control and ready.
2. Packing Your Hospital Bag
Packing early prevents last-minute scrambling. Essential items include:
- Comfortable clothes and slippers
- Toiletries and skincare products
- Documents like ID, insurance card, birth plan
- Phone charger and snacks for your support person
- Items for baby like a going-home outfit, blankets, and diapers
Keep your bag ready by week 36 or earlier if you are at risk of preterm labor.
3. Arranging Transportation and Support
Plan how you will get to the hospital or birthing center when labor starts. Have a contact list for your support people ready. It’s also smart to arrange care for older children or pets if needed.
4. Preparing Your Home
Getting your home set up can relax your mind during the intense days ahead. Basic steps include organizing baby gear, setting up a safe sleeping area, and stocking up on essentials like diapers, wipes, and formula or breastfeeding supplies.
5. Making Key Decisions
The third trimester is a good time to decide on:
- Pain management during labor (natural methods, epidurals, medications)
- Feeding choices for your baby (breastfeeding, formula, or combination)
- Pediatric care provider for your newborn
Talking about these decisions early ensures you feel supported rather than overwhelmed during labor and after delivery.
Managing your emotions and practical preparations side by side creates a balanced approach as your due date nears. It’s a normal part of pregnancy to feel a flood of emotions paired with the drive to get things ready for your baby’s welcome.
