Pregnancy Third Trimester

First Trimester | Second Trimester | Third Trimester

Pregnancy Third Trimester
Congratulations, you've reached the home stretch. As your fetus continues to grow, you should prepare for the delivery of the baby. 

You may feel a little uncomfortable as you continue to gain weight and your false labor contractions continue. It is a good idea to start taking childbirth classes and breastfeeding classes around this time.

Included below is a list of some of the changes and symptoms you can expect during this, your final trimester:

Hair
Increased circulation and metabolism caused by pregnancy hormones nourish your skin very well. You may notice that hair is beginning to grow at a faster rate and on your arms, legs, and face due to increased hormone stimulation of hair follicles. You may also find that your hair feels coarser. The good news is that most of this excess hair will disappear within six months after birth. If it doesn't, though, permanent methods of hair removal are available for unwanted hair.

Increased Temperature
As your fetus continues to grow, she will radiate heat, causing you to feel hotter. Also, your basal metabolic rate can increase to greater than 20 percent of normal. You may find that in addition to feeling overheated you may also perspire more, especially at night.

Try some of the following tips on staying cool:

-	Dress lightly in breathable fabrics, like cotton
-	Avoid exercising outside in the heat of the day. Take your strolls before breakfast or after dinner, or attend exercise classes in an air-conditioned facility.
-	Stay out of the sun as much as possible, especially on very hot days.
-	Take a cool shower or bath.
-	Go for a swim
-	Stay air-conditioned when possible. If you have no air-conditioning at home, spend time at the library, a museum, or mall.
-	Drink lots of fluids; at least eight glasses of water a day, more if you're exercising or perspiring a lot.
-	Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

The Increased Frequency of the Bladder
As your fetus grows, there is increased pressure being placed on the bladder, causing an increase in urinary frequency. Make sure you don't cut back on fluids in an attempt to cut back on your trips to the bathroom. Also, as before, whenever you feel the urge to empty your bladder, do it.