10 Apr 2023 | 5 min Read
Manisha Pradhan
Author | 1053 Articles
Balkika Vadhu actor Neha Marda gave birth to her first child, a daughter, after being admitted to the hospital for complications during the third trimester of pregnancy. The baby was born premature and moved to the NICU.
The third trimester of pregnancy is an exciting time for expectant mothers. It is the final stage of the pregnancy, and the baby is getting ready for the big arrival. However, it can also be a challenging time, with many changes happening to both the mother and the baby.
To help you navigate through the third trimester of pregnancy, here are some things to keep in mind.
11 Things To Keep In Mind During The Third Trimester Of Pregnancy
The baby’s growth and development
During the third trimester of pregnancy, the baby is growing and developing rapidly. The baby’s brain, lungs, and other vital organs are developing, and the baby is gaining weight. The baby is also starting to practice breathing and preparing for life outside the womb.
Your changing body
As the baby grows, your body changes too. Your belly is getting bigger, and you may experience more discomfort and fatigue. You may also experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions that help prepare your body for labour.
Preparing for labour and delivery
During the third trimester, it’s essential to prepare for labour and delivery. Attend childbirth classes, read up on different labour and delivery options, and make a birth plan with your healthcare provider. You may also want to start packing your hospital bag and make arrangements for someone to care for your other children or pets while you’re in the hospital.
Managing discomfort and pain
As your body changes and your baby grows, you may experience more discomfort and pain. Some common discomforts during the last trimester include back pain, swollen ankles, and difficulty sleeping. To manage these discomforts, try to rest often, take warm baths, use a pregnancy pillow, and practice prenatal yoga or other exercises recommended by your doctor.
Staying active
Staying active during the third trimester can help prepare your body for labour and delivery and may even help shorten your labour. However, it’s essential to talk to your doctor about what exercises are safe for you and your baby. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are often safe and recommended exercises during pregnancy.
Eating a healthy diet
During the third trimester, it’s essential to eat a healthy diet to provide your growing baby with the nutrients they need. Focus on eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. You may also need to increase your calorie intake during the last trimester to support your growing baby’s needs.
Monitoring fetal movements
As the baby grows, you may start to notice changes in its movements. During the third trimester of pregnancy, it’s important to monitor fetal movements and report any concerns to your healthcare provider. If you notice a significant decrease in fetal movement or no movement at all, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Taking care of your emotional health
The third trimester of pregnancy can be an emotional time for many expectant mothers. It’s normal to feel anxious, excited, and overwhelmed all at once. Taking care of your emotional health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Take time for yourself, practice self-care, and talk to your partner, friends, or healthcare provider if you feel overwhelmed or anxious.
Preparing for postpartum
The third trimester of pregnancy is also an excellent time to prepare for the postpartum period. Make arrangements for help with household chores and caring for your baby, stock up on postpartum supplies, and plan for how you’ll take care of yourself after the baby arrives. It’s also essential to talk to your healthcare provider about postpartum care and any concerns you may have.
Monitoring blood pressure and other health concerns
During the third trimester of pregnancy, your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and other health concerns closely. High blood pressure can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication that can harm both the mother and the baby. Other health concerns, such as gestational diabetes, may also require close monitoring during the last trimester.
Understanding when to call your doctor
It’s essential to understand when to call your healthcare provider during the third trimester. If you experience severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, a significant decrease in fetal movement, or signs of preterm labour, call your healthcare provider right away. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, and your healthcare provider can provide you with the care you need.
The third trimester of pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also be challenging. By understanding what to expect and taking care of yourself and your growing baby, you can have a healthy pregnancy and prepare for the arrival of your new bundle of joy. With the right care and support, you can have a safe and healthy pregnancy and welcome your new baby into the world with joy and excitement.
You may want to keep these natural products handy during your third trimester of pregnancy:
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