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What's Happening with You:
Third Trimester

Weeks 27 - 40
Compiled by The Cradle Staff
Crib Notes
Your weight gain should slow down closer to due date.
   
You may feel short of breath (your uterus is pushing up against your lungs).
   
Stretch marks may develop.
   
Your cervix may begin to efface and dilate closer to due date.

For the full article, read more...

ou're almost there... just a few more months before you meet your baby!


WHAT YOU MIGHT BE EXPERIENCING THIS TRIMESTER:

  • You'll continue to gain weight, but it should slow down as you get closer to your due date.
  • Your belly button may pop out.
  • Your breasts will continue to grow. (Be sure to invest in more supportive bras.)
  • You might still experience the occasional nasal congestion, nosebleed, and/or clogged ears due to the increase in blood flow to your mucous membranes.
  • It's possible to have some backaches.
  • You might have difficulty sleeping. (If you don't already have a body/maternity pillow, it could be a helpful investment.)
  • That pleasant vaginal discharge (leucorrhea) may get heavier; if it changes in color or smell, call your health practitioner.
  • You might feel short of breath since your uterus is taking up much more space and is pushing up against the lungs. Plus, you are still sharing oxygen with your baby and the placenta.
  • You might feel the need to urinate more frequently since the baby is putting extra pressure on your bladder. (This will be especially noticeable after the baby drops.)
  • Towards the end of your pregnancy, you might have painless Braxton Hicks contractions as your uterus flexes to practice for labor.
  • The "pre-milk" colostrum might start leaking from your nipples.
  • You might still be experiencing all the joys of a relaxed digestive system (and growing uterus putting pressure on these organs): indigestion, heartburn, bloating, gassiness, and/or constipation.

 

This article was reviewed by Anthony Chin, MD. Dr. Chin is an OB/GYN in Beverly Hills, California, and a member of The Cradle's Advisory Board.

  Next Page: Leg cramps, Stretch marks, Swelling & more     Pages: 1, 2   Next »
 

 

 

Every pregnancy is different. The content offered in this article is for informational purposes only. Always consult with your health care practitioner if you have any questions about your health or the health of your baby.

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