The third trimester brings a completely different batch of physical changes from the first two trimesters as your body continues to adapt to pregnancy and your baby prepares for birth. 

Increased weight gain: Your baby grows rapidly during the third trimester, so you may notice increased weight gain. This weight gain is essential for your baby's development and helps prepare your body for breastfeeding. It's important to continue eating a balanced diet to support your baby's growth and maintain your health. 

Braxton Hicks contractions: Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as "practice contractions," may become more frequent during this time. These contractions help prepare your uterus for labour but are usually irregular and less intense than true labour contractions. Staying hydrated and changing positions can often help to ease any discomfort caused by Braxton Hicks. 

Shortness of breath: As your uterus expands, it may put pressure on your diaphragm, leading to shortness of breath. Your breathing might also be affected by an increase in the hormone progesterone, which causes you to breathe in more deeply. Try to maintain good posture and sleep with your head elevated to help ease this symptom. Gentle exercise and deep breathing techniques can also be beneficial. 

Swelling: Swelling, particularly in the ankles, feet, and hands, is common in the third trimester due to increased blood volume and fluid retention. To reduce swelling, elevate your feet when possible, wear comfortable shoes, and drink plenty of water. If you experience sudden or severe swelling, contact a medical professional, as it could be a sign of preeclampsia. 

Heartburn and indigestion: As your growing baby presses against your stomach, you may experience heartburn and indigestion. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding spicy or fatty foods can help manage these symptoms. Antacids may also provide relief but consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication. 

The third trimester can be an emotionally intense time as you prepare for the arrival of your baby. It’s easy to feel exhausted by these new emotions, so make sure you anticipate the following to avoid overwhelm:  

Excitement and anticipation: As your due date approaches, you may feel a heightened sense of excitement and anticipation. Visualising your baby's arrival and imagining your new life as a parent can be both thrilling and overwhelming. 

Anxiety and worry: It's perfectly normal to feel anxious or worried about labour, delivery, and the transition to parenthood. Educating yourself about the birthing process, discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider, and developing a birth plan can help alleviate some of these fears. 

Nesting instinct: Many expectant mothers experience a nesting instinct during the third trimester. This is characterised by a strong urge to clean, organise, and prepare the home for your baby. Embrace this natural instinct but remember to pace yourself and enlist the help of others if needed. 

The third trimester is an ideal time to prepare for labour and delivery, as well as your baby's arrival. 

Create a birth plan: Consider creating a birth plan that outlines your preferences for labour and delivery, such as pain management options, birthing positions, and who will be present during the birth. Share your plan with your healthcare provider and birth team, but remain flexible, as the birth experience can be unpredictable. 

Pack your hospital bag: If you’re going to hospital to give birth, pack a hospital bag with essentials for both you and your baby at around week 36. Include comfortable clothing for you both, toiletries, snacks, nappies, and any important documents. Having your bag ready in advance will help ease any last-minute stress when labour begins. 

Attend prenatal classes: Consider attending antenatal classes to learn about childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care. These classes can provide valuable information and help build your confidence as you prepare for parenthood. 

Install the car seat: Ensure your baby's safety by installing a car seat well before your due date. Familiarise yourself with the car seat's instructions and have it inspected by a certified technician if possible. 

Prepare the nursery: Many expectant parents also like have their nursery planned, painted, and prepared, ready for baby’s arrival. You can use the third trimester to choose what nursery furniture you need and decorate the room ready for when your little one comes home for the first time.  

Here are some additional tips to help you manage the challenges of the third trimester: 

Prioritise rest: As your body works hard to support your growing baby, make sure to prioritise rest and listen to your body's cues. Consider taking short naps during the day and practice relaxation techniques to improve sleep quality. 

Stay active: Engage in gentle exercises, such as walking or swimming, to maintain your strength and endurance. Prenatal yoga can also be beneficial for both physical and mental well-being. 

Maintain a healthy diet: Continue to eat a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients to support your baby's growth and your own health. Consider consulting a nutritionist if you have specific dietary concerns or questions. 

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support your body's increased blood volume. Adequate hydration can also help relieve common pregnancy symptoms, such as swelling and constipation. 

Build a strong support system: Keep open lines of communication with your partner, friend, family member or delivery partner and discuss your expectations and concerns about labour, delivery, and parenting. 

When does the third trimester start? 

The third trimester of pregnancy starts at week 28 and runs through to the end of your pregnancy at week 40. 

What is the most common cause of third trimester bleeding? 

There are a few different reasons why this might happen, including changes to your cervix, infections, or a low-lying placenta. You should get in touch with your GP or midwife immediately if you start to bleed from your vagina.  

What are common ailments in the third trimester of pregnancy? 

Lower back pain, diarrhoea, pelvic pain, headaches, fatigue, cramping, nausea, elevated blood pressure, itchy skin, common colds, acid reflux, dizziness and insomnia are all common things you may experience during the final third of your pregnancy. While these complaints are widespread and often nothing to worry about, if you do have any concerns at all, reach out to your GP or midwife immediately.  

As your due date creeps ever closer, the third trimester can be a time of impending excitement, but also fear. It’s perfectly natural to feel worried about such a big change to your life, but as long as you prioritise focusing on self-care, being prepared, staying informed, and maintaining open communication with your GP, midwife and support network, you can navigate the challenges and joys of this period with confidence.  

Please Note: We are not medical professionals, and you should not take this blog as medical advice. If you have any concerns, always consult a medical professional for medical advice. 

he concept of the fourth trimester highlights the idea that newborns are still developing and adjusting to the world outside the womb. During this period, babies rely heavily on their parents for comfort, nourishment, and security. 

Physical changes for the newborn 

In the fourth trimester, your newborn will experience significant physical changes and developmental milestones: 

Rapid growth: Babies grow quickly during the first few months, gaining weight and increasing in length. This growth supports the development of vital organs and systems. 

Reflexes: Newborns are born with several reflexes, such as the rooting and sucking reflexes, which help them feed. These reflexes gradually give way to more voluntary movements as your baby develops. 

Developing senses: Your baby's senses are rapidly developing. They begin to focus on faces, respond to sounds, and distinguish between different smells and tastes. Providing a variety of sensory experiences can help stimulate your baby's development. 

The fourth trimester is a time of significant physical and emotional changes for you. Here’s what you can expect as your body recovers from pregnancy and childbirth:  

• Postpartum bleeding (Lochia): After giving birth, it's normal to experience bleeding and discharge as your body sheds the lining of the uterus. This can last for several weeks, gradually lightening in colour and volume. 
• Hormonal fluctuations: Hormonal changes can lead to mood swings, night sweats, and changes in your skin and hair. The drop in oestrogen and progesterone levels after birth can also contribute to the "baby blues" or, in some cases, postpartum depression. It's important to monitor your emotional health and seek support if needed. 
• Breast changes: Whether you choose to breastfeed or not, your breasts will undergo changes. Engorgement, leaking, and increased sensitivity are common as your milk comes in. If you are breastfeeding, you may also experience nipple soreness or clogged ducts. 
• Pelvic floor recovery: Your pelvic floor muscles, which support your bladder, uterus, and bowel, may feel weakened after childbirth. This might mean that you pee a little when you cough or laugh for a little while, but it should pass. Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, can help in regaining strength and preventing issues like incontinence. 
• Physical discomfort: You might experience general aches, especially in your back, abdomen, and perineal area (if you had a vaginal birth). C-section recovery comes with its own set of challenges, including managing the incision site. Gentle exercise, once approved by your GP or midwife, can aid in your recovery. 
• Changes in hair and skin: Postpartum hair loss is common due to hormonal changes. You might also notice changes in your skin, such as dryness or acne. These changes are typically temporary and often resolve as your hormones stabilise. 
• Adjusting to a new body: Your body has undergone big changes during pregnancy, and it’ll take time to recover. It's important to be patient with yourself and embrace your postpartum body, focusing on gradual, healthy recovery rather than put undue pressure on yourself to lose weight rapidly. 
• Getting sick more often: Pregnancy reduces your body’s natural immune system, leaving you more susceptible to things like flu and common colds. In fact, it can take your body up to a year to go back to its natural pre-pregnancy immunity levels, so don’t be surprised if you pick up common illnesses more often than you used to. 

During this period, rest as much as you can, eat a balanced diet, and reach out for support when needed. If you have any concerns about your recovery, don’t hesitate to consult your GP or district nurse team. 

The fourth trimester is also a time of emotional and psychological adjustment for new parents: 

Attachment and bonding: Establishing a strong bond with your newborn is crucial during this time. Holding, cuddling, and talking to your baby fosters attachment and helps them feel secure and loved. 

Crying and soothing: Newborns communicate primarily through crying, and understanding their cues takes time and patience. Responding promptly and gently to your baby's cries helps them feel safe and understood. 

Parental emotions: As a new parent, you may experience a wide range of emotions, from overwhelming joy to fatigue and anxiety. It's important to acknowledge these feelings and seek support from your close circle of family, and friends. 

Here are some practical tips to help you and your baby thrive during the fourth trimester: 

Focus on skin-to-skin contact: Skin-to-skin contact provides numerous benefits for you and your baby. It helps regulate your baby's body temperature, heart rate, and breathing and it also promotes bonding and breastfeeding. Spend time holding your baby close, particularly during the early weeks. 

Establish a flexible routine: While establishing a routine can be helpful, it's important to remain flexible and responsive to your baby's needs. A new born baby will have irregular sleep patterns, and their needs can change daily. Focus on creating a calm and nurturing environment for you and your baby, rather than trying to stick to an overly strict schedule. 

Prioritise rest and self-care: Caring for a newborn can be exhausting, so it's crucial to prioritise rest and self-care. Sleep when your baby sleeps, and don't hesitate to ask for help from family and friends. Taking care of yourself enables you to better care of your baby. 

Breastfeeding and nutrition: Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients for your baby's growth and development. If you're breastfeeding, ensure you eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and don’t drink alcohol. If you encounter difficulties, seek support from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support group. If you’re formula feeding, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper preparation and feeding. 

Encourage tummy time: Tummy time is essential for your baby's physical development, helping strengthen their neck and shoulder muscles. Begin with short sessions of tummy time while your baby is awake and supervised, gradually increasing the duration as they grow stronger. 

Seek support and connect with others: Connecting with other new parents can provide invaluable support and reassurance. Consider joining a parent group or attending baby classes to share experiences and build a support network. Don't hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals if you have questions or concerns about your baby's development. 

• When does the first period after giving birth happen? 

This usually happens approximately 5 to 6 weeks after giving birth but could be as early as a month if you’re formula feeding rather than breastfeeding. Why the difference? Because the hormone in your body that controls ovulation is regulated by your body’s breast milk production, so if you’re formula feeding, your body should go back to its normal period cycle much faster. 

• How soon can I have sex after birth? 

There’s no set rule here, but you’ll probably be sore for a while after giving birth and having sex will be the last thing on your mind. Many doctors recommend waiting at least six weeks before having sex, but you can get pregnant again just three weeks after giving birth, so remember to use contraception.  

• Eating the placenta after birth 

This isn’t an urban myth; it’s completely true! The placenta is an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, providing oxygen and nutrients to your baby and removing waste products from the baby's blood. After childbirth, some people choose to eat the placenta (a practice known as placentophagy), as it’s believed by some to offer benefits such as improved mood, increased energy, and enhanced postpartum recovery.  Although scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, it’s been happening for years. If you want to try it yourself, the placenta can be eaten raw, cooked, or encapsulated in pill form, making it more convenient to eat.  

The fourth trimester is when it truly hits home. This is a truly unique and transformative time filled with mental and physical challenges, but it’s also one of the most rewarding times you’ll ever experience.  

Each baby is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting, so don’t be too hard on yourself as you learn. By focusing on building a strong bond with your baby and taking care of your own well-being, you’ll create a nurturing environment for both you and your little one.  

Please note: We are not medical professionals, and you should not take this blog as medical advice. If you have any concerns, always consult a medical professional for medical advice.