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Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Weeks 28-40: The final stretch! Preparing for labor, delivery, and meeting your baby.
What to Expect
- •Baby grows rapidly and gains weight
- •Increased fatigue and discomfort
- •Braxton Hicks contractions
- •Preparing for labor and delivery
- •Nesting instinct kicks in
Key Milestones
- •Week 28: Welcome to third trimester!
- •Week 32: Weekly prenatal visits begin
- •Week 36: Group B strep test
- •Week 37: Baby is full term!
- •Week 40: Your due date arrives
Common Third Trimester Symptoms
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Shortness of Breath
Baby pressing on diaphragm
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Heartburn
Acid reflux and indigestion
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Trouble Sleeping
Difficulty finding comfortable position
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Swelling
Swollen feet, ankles, and hands
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Braxton Hicks
Practice contractions
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Frequent Urination
Baby pressing on bladder
Third Trimester Nutrition
Focus on:
- Continue eating a balanced, nutritious diet
- Eat small, frequent meals to avoid heartburn
- Stay hydrated to prevent swelling and constipation
- Foods rich in vitamin K for blood clotting
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating
Preparing for labor: Some women eat dates in the final weeks as studies suggest they may help with cervical ripening and labor progression. Always consult your healthcare provider before making dietary changes.
Preparing for Labor & Delivery
What to Pack
- • Hospital paperwork and ID
- • Comfortable clothes
- • Toiletries
- • Baby outfit and car seat
- • Phone charger
Signs of Labor
- • Regular contractions
- • Water breaking
- • Bloody show
- • Lower back pain
- • Baby dropping