Third Trimester of Pregnancy - Precaution, Symptoms & Care for Delivery
The third trimester of pregnancy is the final phase of the pregnancy ending with the birth of the baby. Pregnancy has been divided into three trimesters and the third trimester of pregnancy is when women are advised to start preparing for the arrival of their bundle of joy. Hence, third trimester of pregnancy care is probably the most crucial. It could be difficult for a woman to move around comfortably, due to the amount of weight gain in the third trimester. During this phase of pregnancy, the baby too will have less room to move about within the womb and therefore, the women’s discomfort and perhaps even pain is likely to get worse. There are a few other third trimester symptoms that may be experienced, which are not very pleasant. However, it is important to distinguish between the symptoms that are normal and those which are a cause for concern and should be brought to the attention of the doctor immediately. The growth of the baby will be more during these last few months. The mother can also experience a lot of changes in her body. In the third trimester of pregnancy, the fetus continues to grow in weight and size. The lungs are maturing and fetus begins to position head down. And the fetal development includes the growth of kidney and lungs, the bones of the skull remain soft to make it easier to pass through the birth canals and the baby is covered in vernix caseosa (or simply called vernix), a creamy, protective coating on the skin, at this period consult with your doctor, if you have swelling in the hands and feet in the seventh month. You can also have cramps in legs due to the growing demand of the baby on extra calcium, minerals and vitamins.
Third Trimester Nausea
Digestive problems, which include third trimester nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, are complaints that quite a few women have. It is still not clear why women experience third trimester nausea after eating; however, health experts believe that hormonal changes may have something to do with it. In case a woman vomits once or even twice a day, it is not really a cause for concern. However, excessive vomiting should be investigated by a doctor, and so should all instances of third trimester nausea, dizziness and headache. Heartburn, shortness of breath, indigestion, tiredness and sleep trouble become apparent in the third trimester of pregnancy as the baby grow to almost four pound and sixteen inches in length. These symptoms can mitigate by change in relaxation and dietary habits. In the last month of the third trimester of pregnancy, the baby head will come in the pelvic area, to get ready for the delivery. At this period you feel a surge of energy and have an easy breathing and more frequent urge to urinate. This is the crucial period when your anxiety level and sacredness rises considerably. These are the normal feeling for perfect delivery. So enjoy each and every minute of your pregnancy with good health and happiness.
Fetal Movement Third Trimester
Since the baby is much bigger in the third trimester, it is only natural that he or she will not have adequate space to move around. This could cause the baby to be a little less active, as compared to earlier. While, it is normal for a baby to move at least 8 to 10 times, within a 3 hour period, there are several exceptions, where they may move around a little less. However, if the lack of activity seems unsettling, it is best for the woman to speak to her doctor and preferably undergo a checkup.
Third Trimester Bleeding
Bleeding in the third trimester of pregnancy can be a major complication, which is why it should be investigated by a doctor without any delay. Some of the third trimester bleeding causes, which are a concern, include infections, pre-term labor, placental problems or even miscarriage. Strenuous activity could also lead to vaginal discharge or bleeding, which is why women could experience third trimester bleeding after intercourse. However, there are several women who have had bleeding in the third trimester but have gone on to give birth to healthy babies. Nevertheless this occurrence should never be left unchecked. Thinning of the cervix in the third trimester of pregnancy could also occur.
Cramping during Third Trimester
As the baby continues to grow, the uterus too stretches which could lead to some amount of pain and perhaps even cramping during the third trimester of pregnancy. However, it is important to keep a lookout for other signs too, since cramps could be an indication for labor, if it is accompanied by diarrhea, backaches or contractions. In case of severe pain or bleeding, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. If the cramps are too severe and lead to restlessness, it is important to keep the doctor notified about it.
There are several online resources that have detailed third trimester of pregnancy week by week information, which most women have easy access too. However, it is best for any woman to speak to her doctor in case she has any concerns about third trimester of pregnancy symptoms. Family members as well as relatives are also advised to educate themselves about the alarming symptoms that may be experienced by a woman during the third trimester, so that they can help if necessary.
