Symptoms During the Third Trimester of Pregnancy

Headaches, abdominal pain, decreased libido and many more. The symptoms during the third trimester of pregnancy indicate that the end of gestation is arriving. In this article, we’ll share with you some tips about how to manage this period in the best way possible.

Seven months in and the discomfort continues. The road has been hard, but it’s coming to an end. The symptoms during the third trimester of pregnancy show that the baby is preparing to exit the womb. The thought of having your child in your arms will be the best antidote to withstand what is to come.

The discomforts associated with pregnancy vary from woman to woman. Symptoms aren’t suffered with the same intensity nor frequency. Some symptoms that you overcame during the first trimester may reappear. You may even experience certain symptoms that you have never felt before.

Weight, the diameter of the belly, nutrition and health are all factors that determine the severity of a pregnant woman’s symptoms. The symptoms during the third trimester of pregnancy may include reflux, swelling, back pain, trouble sleeping, indigestion and even bleeding.

Acid-reflux: a very common symptom

It all begins with a burning sensation that starts around the lower part of the sternum which then extends to the throat. It occurs quite frequently during the first weeks of pregnancy, then it disappears and then reappears during the third trimester.

Obstetricians believe that reflux during pregnancy is related to the hormone progesterone. Progesterone causes the esophageal muscle to relax, it also causes a delay in gastric emptying which can cause inflammation and irritation.

This and other symptoms are caused by the growth of the baby and the pressure that it exerts on the internal organs. The burning sensation in the esophagus for example, can be caused by compression of the stomach by the uterus which in turn hinders digestion.

To avoid and prevent reflux, specialists recommend eating more but in smaller portions (eat five times a day rather than three). It is also wise to avoid spicy foods and avoid lying down or going to bed immediately after eating.

Swelling and fatigue

Swelling is another common symptom during the third trimester. The thighs, feet, ankles and fingers are usually the first places to swell up. This can occur due to many factors including fluid retention, high blood pressure and poor circulation.

The discomfort is sometimes accompanied by fatigue which usually occurs after standing or sitting for long periods of time. Therefore, it is important to walk, eat fruits, raise your legs occasionally and to drink sufficient quantities of water. It is also wise to wear loose clothing and to get massages periodically.

Lower back pain

One of the biggest struggles during the third trimester is back pain. It is usually focused on the lower central part of the back and it becomes more acute when walking or standing. In some women the pain is so intense that they have to move around in wheelchairs. This kind of pain is caused by the weight that the growing uterus puts on the spine.

To prevent lower back pain, try to maintain good posture. Here are some elements that you should keep in mind:

• Lean on something when you stand and place cushions on your chairs to keep your spine straight.
• Sitting down with a straight back is one of the best ways to counteract this type of pain.
• If you have to bend over, remember to do it by bending your knees.
• High heels and flats should remain in the closet, they aren’t suitable footwear during pregnancy.
• Sleep on an orthopedic or hard mattress. The best position to rest while lying down is on your left side.
• Swimming lessons and pilates can also provide relief from back pain.

Indigestion and insomnia

As we stated earlier, there are many hormones that interfere with the digestive system during pregnancy. Therefore, many pregnant women suffer from indigestion, gas and a feeling of fullness.

Ideally, to prevent these symptoms, it is best to prepare light meals and to eat slowly. It is recommended to eat at least 2 hours before going to bed.

Specialists suggest sleeping on the left side, as this position allows for better blood circulation for both mother and child. Specialists also recommend sleeping with a pillow under the belly to prevent negative changes in blood pressure. At first it may feel a little uncomfortable, however, with time, it is easy to get used to.

Symptoms during the third trimester, there’s more!

A lot of changes occur from the moment the pregnancy test comes back positive. Pregnancy brings along a wave of emotions and transformations which can also cause discomfort.

In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, during the third trimester, pregnant women may also experience headaches, inter-costal pain, difficulty breathing, involuntary movements, tingling in the legs, decreased libido and hemorrhoids.

Pregnancy may seem like a long winding road. However, don’t fret: all of the symptoms that occur during the third trimester are bearable and they will pass. Having a healthy routine will help you face the challenges in a positive way. There is no reason to be afraid, the reward is on the way.