Knowing what to expect during the third trimester of pregnancy
You’ve entered the home stretch of your journey, and you may be wondering what to expect during the third trimester of pregnancy. Weeks 28 through 40 are the last phase of pregnancy. During this time, your body and your baby are getting ready for birth. You may feel excited, uncomfortable and anxious, but knowing what is happening can help. During this three-month period, your baby gains more than half of its total body weight. The brain, lungs and kidneys continue to develop and mature. You and your baby are navigating the final part of your pregnancy, and our San Antonio OBGYNs are here to help you along.
What to expect at your prenatal appointments
As you enter the last phase of pregnancy, our physicians want to see you in the office every two weeks until week 36. From week 36 until you give birth, you will have weekly visits with our team. At these visits, our team checks your weight and blood pressure and measures your abdomen. Our physicians will check the height of your fundus, which is the top of the uterus; your urine; the fetal heartbeat; and the position, development and growth of your baby.
What are some of the symptoms of the third trimester of pregnancy?
Every woman feels different during their last months, but our San Antonio OBGYNs want you to be aware of the symptoms you may experience.
- More frequent urination as the baby presses on your bladder
- Leaking urine when laughing, coughing or sneezing
- Shortness of breath
- Mild Braxton Hicks contractions that feel more like menstrual cramps than actual contractions
- Heartburn
- Swollen feet and ankles
- Hemorrhoids
- Constipation
- Spider or varicose veins
- Trouble sleeping
- Stretch marks
- Leg cramps
- Backaches
Emotionally, you may feel stressed or nervous about giving birth or impending motherhood. You may also feel the urge to nest during the third trimester of pregnancy, cleaning and organizing your home to get ready for your baby.
When to call our San Antonio OBGYNs during the last phase of pregnancy
Sometimes, complications can arise during the third trimester of pregnancy. These include gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm labor and other issues. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call our OBGYNs.
- Vaginal bleeding
- Water breaking or painful contractions
- Severe cramps in your abdomen
- Vomiting or nausea
- Dizziness
- Terribly painful headaches
- Lack of fetal movement
If you have questions or concerns, reach out to our OBGYNs. We understand that the third trimester of pregnancy can make mothers-to-be anxious, and we are happy to alleviate your worries. You can rely on our team throughout your pregnancy, birth and after your delivery. Contact us for an appointment.