An average pregnancy lasts for 40 weeks. The third trimester of pregnancy lasts from weeks 28 to 40.
For a pregnant woman, the third trimester can be emotionally and physically taxing. At the conclusion of week 37, the baby is regarded as full term, and delivery is just a matter of time.
You can lessen any anxiety you may experience during the last few weeks of your pregnancy by learning what to anticipate throughout the third trimester. And what not to do in your third trimester of pregnancy?
Well, as of now you can rely for the research part on us. Let us all explore what you can be expecting from the third trimester of pregnancy.
Table of Contents
What happens to a woman’s body during the third trimester?
A woman’s body changes significantly throughout the third trimester of pregnancy as it gears up for the latter stages of pregnancy and delivery. The following are a few significant changes that take place at this stage:
Increased Weight and Size: The woman’s uterus expands as the baby grows, leading to a significant increase in weight and size. This growth may result in discomfort, backaches, and trouble finding a comfortable sleeping posture as well as increased pressure on the organs.
Fetal Movement: Before knowing what not to do in your third trimester of pregnancy, during this time, fetal movements intensify and are more obvious. Stronger and more frequent motions may be felt as the baby grows. As the baby gets more active, women could feel kicks, rolls, and stretches.
Backache and Pelvic Pressure: The growing uterus and the shifting of the baby’s position can put pressure on the back and pelvis, leading to backaches and pelvic discomfort. This is due to the ligaments and joints stretching to accommodate the expanding uterus.
Swelling and Water Retention: Edema, or swelling, frequently happens in the hands, feet, and ankles during the third trimester. This is because the expanding uterus’ strain on blood arteries causes greater fluid retention and decreased circulation.
Braxton Hicks contractions: Right before we know what not to do in your third trimester of pregnancy, know that Braxton Hicks contractions are a type of practice contraction that women experience in the third trimester to get the uterus ready for labor. In contrast to true labor contractions, these contractions are typically erratic and less painful.
What happens to the fetus during the third trimester
Your baby’s bones are fully developed at week 32. Now that its eyes are open, the infant can also perceive light. The body of the newborn will start to retain minerals like calcium and iron.
Experts at Avicenna Hospital say that. The infant should be lying head down by week 36. Your doctor may suggest a cesarean delivery if the baby doesn’t move into this position or may try to move the baby’s position. In order to deliver the baby, the doctor makes a cut in the mother’s abdomen and uterus at this point.
Your kid is full term and its organs are prepared to function independently after week 37. The baby is currently between 19 and 21 inches long, and the Office on Women’s HealthTrusted Source estimates that it weighs between 6 and 9 pounds.
Suggested Read: Pregnancy week by week.
What not to do in your third trimester of Pregnancy?
There are some things that you do not have to be doing when you are in the third trimester of your pregnancy.
Avoid Excessive Physical Exertion
Dr. Rabia Nosheen who is one of the best gynecologists in Pakistan says that, it is crucial to be aware of your physical limitations and to refrain from strenuous physical activity throughout the third trimester. Because of the major changes your body is facing, pushing oneself too hard might result in weariness, pain, and even hazards.
Heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and straining activities might impose excessive stress on your body and the developing baby. Choose easy exercises that won’t exhaust you, like swimming, prenatal yoga, or walking, to improve your strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.
What not to do in your third trimester of pregnancy? Maintain a balance between remaining busy and giving yourself enough downtime to unwind and regenerate by paying attention to your body’s needs and taking a break when necessary.
Say No to Stress and Overexertion
During the third trimester, stress and excessive activity can have a detrimental effect on your physical and emotional health. Preterm labor and high blood pressure are two issues that may be exacerbated by ongoing stress.
Self-care must be prioritized, and stress must be appropriately managed. To relieve stress, try relaxation techniques like pregnant yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Ask for help from close friends and family, and think about going to prenatal classes or support groups to meet other pregnant women.
To get the answer of what not to do in your third trimester of pregnancy? Try to avoid exhaustion and to do that, assign work, set reasonable expectations, and request assistance as required. You may keep your composure and lower your stress levels by prioritizing sleep and taking part in relaxing activities like warm baths or relaxing pregnant massages.
Suggested Read: 5 Tips to Deal with Anxiety During Pregnancy.
Avoid Exposure to Harmful Substances
Being mindful of harmful substances and avoiding exposure to them is crucial during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester when the baby’s organs are maturing. Stay away from tobacco smoke, including secondhand smoke, as it can increase the risk of complications and have long-term effects on your baby’s health.
When it comes to harmful substances, what not to do in your third trimester of pregnancy? Minimize exposure to household chemicals, pesticides, and other toxins by wearing protective gloves when handling cleaning products or engaging in any potentially hazardous activities.
Be cautious with certain beauty products, such as hair dyes or strong chemical-based cosmetics, as they may contain ingredients that could be harmful.
If you work in an environment where you may be exposed to harmful substances, consult with your healthcare provider and employer to ensure appropriate safety measures are in place to protect you and your baby.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Every stage of pregnancy necessitates maintaining a healthy, balanced diet, and the third trimester is no exception. Avoiding harmful meals and drinks that can harm both you and your unborn child is vital.
Well, what not to do in your third trimester of pregnancy when it comes to a healthy diet? Avoid processed foods that are high in sugar and caffeine since they can make you feel more uncomfortable, cause gestational diabetes, or interfere with your sleep. Instead, concentrate on eating meals that are high in nutrients and that offer important vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Suggested Read: Is it Safe to Eat Papaya (Papita) During Pregnancy?
A variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products should be chosen. Limit your consumption of sugary beverages and drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
By making nourishing decisions, you give your body the energy it needs for a successful pregnancy and promote the growth and development of your unborn child.
Be Cautious with Medications and Supplements
It’s crucial to use caution when using supplements and drugs during pregnancy as some compounds may be harmful to the unborn child. What not to do in your third trimester of pregnancy?
Before beginning any new supplement regimen or taking any prescription, including over-the-counter medications, always speak with your healthcare physician.
Some drugs and herbal remedies might not be advised during pregnancy or they might have unknowable effects on fetal development. Your healthcare practitioner can advise you on the safest medications to take for everyday ailments like headaches, allergies, or minor aches and pains.
The safety and effectiveness of herbal supplements during pregnancy may not be well proven, so use caution when taking them.
To provide the greatest care for you and your baby, always tell your healthcare practitioner about any supplements or medications you are taking.
When to See a Gynecologist
In conclusion, the third trimester of pregnancy is a crucial period where expectant mothers need to be particularly cautious and mindful of their choices. By avoiding excessive physical exertion, managing stress and overexertion, being cautious with medications and supplements, and avoiding exposure to harmful substances, pregnant women can prioritize their health and the well-being of their growing baby and get the answer to what not to do in their third trimester of pregnancy.
If you feel like you are having some complications despite avoiding all the above factors make sure to see the best lady doctors near you. You can do that by booking an appointment through Heslthwire.
