First Trimester Pregnancy - What's happening with you and your baby

Third Trimester Pregnancy Third Trimester

Congratulations, you've almost made it. Now is the time to start taking some childbirth and breastfeeding classes.

In the seventh month of your pregnancy you will experience some vigorous kicking! Your baby will grow rapidly during this last trimester. During the eighth month, your baby will weight around four pounds. Finally, in the last month of pregnancy, your baby will gain approximately 2 pounds and measure between 19 - 21 inches long.

Below you'll find out about some of the changes that are taking place in your body.

Increased Temperature

As your fetus continues to grow, he or she will radiate heat, causing you to feel hotter. Your basal metabolic rate can increase to greater than 20 percent during this time. You may find that you are perspiring more, especially at night.

Here are some tips for staying cool:

- avoid exercising outside in the heat of the day. Try to take your walks in the morning or later at night. There are even some gym classes geared especially for expectant women.

- Dress lightly in breathable fabrics such as cotton.

- Take a cool shower or bath

- Go for a swim... This is also a great exercise while you're pregnant. (very safe for you and the baby.)

- Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

- Drink lots of fluids... eight or more glasses a day.

Swelling

Near the end of your pregnancy, you might notice some more swelling in your ankles, fingers, and face. This is known as edema and is caused by your body retaining more fluids. Continue to drink lots of water and elevate your feet when resting.

To ease the swelling, you can:

• lie down for brief periods when possible
• avoid extended periods of standing
• wear comfortable shoes or slippers
• support panty hose may bring some relief
• elevate your legs when sitting

Increased frequency of the bladder As your fetus grow, an increased amount of pressure is being p;ace on the bladder, causing more trips to the bathroom. However, make sure you don't cut back on those fluids.

Caution.... If you notice sudden, extreme swelling in your ankles, fingers, or face or have a significant weight gain, call your health care provider right away. This could be a sign of preeclampsia or toxemia. This is characterized by high blood pressure, fluid retention, and protein in the urine. This can cause serious damage to the baby and should therefore be checked on right away. To avoid this rare pregnancy complication, make sure that you are getting all the right prenatal care and keeping all of your appointments so that your health provider will pick up on any complications early.

Hair Growing faster

The increased pregnancy hormones will cause your hair to grow faster rate on your arms, leg, and face. Luckily, most of the excess hair will disappear within six months after birth.

Fatigue

Fatigue can certainly be an issue during the third trimester. This is a signal that you should slow down. Be sure to get plenty of rest and avoid nonessential activities. This will ensure that you have all of your strength for labor and delivery.

You may also experience some shortness of breath. This is due to the fact that your body is trying to take in more oxygen to use with the development of your child. Try to sit up straight at all times.

Braxton Hicks contractions (false labor)

You may experience false contractions at irregular intervals in preparation for childbirth. These occur sometime after the 20th week of pregnancy and last about fifteen or thirty seconds. The braxton hicks contractions become more frequent and intense as you draw near to your due date and are sometimes even confused as the beginning of labor by some women.

To relive discomfort change position and move around.

If you find that the contractions are very frequent or accompanied by pain or vaginal discharge, report them immediately.