Third Trimester Symptoms: Tips to Survive the Last Month of Pregnancy

Maternity photography of belly in teal fabric with third trimester symptoms

Are you suffering from third-trimester symptoms? These symptoms may interrupt your sleep or have you generally uncomfortable all day long. But there are things you can do to survive the last month of pregnancy.

Or months.

And I feel you. When writing this I’m in the third trimester of my fourth pregnancy. Additionally, as an older mom, I’m experiencing some of these symptoms even more than I had in the past.

Being pregnant isn’t easy, and it doesn’t get any easier the older you get.

But there are ways to fight these third-trimester symptoms. So, I wanted to share some of my best tips to get you through those last several months. 

Don’t worry. You can do it, momma!

What Week Does Third Trimester Start

If you are wondering what week does third-trimester start, you might find conflicting information. Sources like Health News Today and WhatToExpect.com say 28 weeks. But you will also find contradicting references like the University of California San Francisco that site 27 weeks as the start of the third trimester.

Either way, third-trimester symptoms will start around this time, give or take, but may begin differently for every unique person.

The following are third trimester symptoms and some quick tips to manage them.

Heartburn

Heartburn is usually the first physical complaint I have during pregnancy. While the uterus expands, it pushes up your stomach, and this causes a shorter distance for the stomach acid to rise. Heartburn can be very uncomfortable throughout the day, but especially when it is time to sleep.

  • try eating smaller meals several times a day versus three large ones
  • avoid foods that aggravate the digestive systems, such as fried foods, chocolate, peppermint, garlic, and onion
  • drink lots of water but try to avoid acidic drinks
  • eat 2-3 hours before going to sleep
  • use pillows to prop up your upper body while sleeping to help prevent acid in your esophagus

If heartburn symptoms persist you may use antacids (Tums, Mylanta, Maalox) or medications such as Zantac. But consult your OB if you have any questions.

Leg Cramps

Leg cramps, or Charley horses, may occur in any pregnancy. I’ve had them in all of mine to varying degrees and find them to be the most painful symptom I’ve experienced.

They most often occur at night and usually in the claves. I have had Charley horses that are so intense they wake me out of deep sleep.

  • try messages to help the circulation in your legs
  • stretch the claves by pushing your toes back
  • avoid pointing your toes as it will exacerbate the condition

You may also wish to increase your potassium or magnesium, but consult your OB before doing so.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

One of the notable third trimester symptoms is Braxton Hicks contractions. They should be painless on the most part. These random contractions squeeze the lower abdomen and groin. This tightening feeling of the uterus is your body’s way of preparing for childbirth.

You may experience these contractions more frequently during sex.

If you think your contractions are intense or occur at regular intervals try laying down and drinking water. If your contractions persist call your OB.

Backaches and Hip Pain

At the end of your pregnancy, your baby will grow considerably more quickly. This weight will put more pressure on your back and the shift in your hormones relaxes the joints between your pelvic bones.

With this baby, I am carrying it all in the front like a basketball, and as an older mom, I’ve had more back pain than with any of my other pregnancies.

  • use a pregnancy support band to lift some of the burdens from your back
  • utilize pillows and sit in chairs with good back support
  • apply heat and/or ice to the affected areas to ease the pain

Contact your OB if the pain does not go away or is accompanied by other symptoms. Personally, I needed to see a chiropractor and eventually a physical therapist to aid my third trimester symptoms.

Round Ligament Pain

Similar to the above, you may begin to feel ligament pain. The round ligaments support the uterus in your pelvis. As your uterus grows, the ligaments stretch and thicken to accommodate and support the change.

It’s pretty amazing what your body can do.

But unfortunately, these changes can cause pain on one or both sides of the pelvis.

The pain may start deep within the groin and move upward and outward towards the hips. Or it may be milder as a dull ache after an active day.

I notice it most if I am doing an exercise with my leg pressing in toward the other. If it is too painful, don’t do it.

Try the following to relieve discomfort:

  • stretch by flexing your knees toward your abdomen
  • relax in a warm bath
  • lying on your left side with a pillow under your belly
  • decrease your physical activity if necessary
  • and use a belly brace to relieve the pressure

If you are having extreme pain talk with your OB. You may benefit from seeing a physical therapist or chiropractor. 

Swelling

Swelling is a common pregnancy symptom. The blood circulation from your veins is weakened during pregnancy. You may see fluid retention in your ankles, feet, face, and hands.

  • reduce your salt intake
  • drink lots of water
  • avoid standing for long periods
  • elevate your feet at night
  • try to exercise regularly
  • and stay cool in warm and humid weather

If you see an abnormal amount of swelling, swell in a short amount of time, or have any pain in your legs and feet contact your OB.

Frequent Urination

Sorry, Momma, it’s a thing. As Baby grows there is extra pressure on your bladder which may cause you to urinate more often (or even leak urine). You may have problems when laughing, coughing, or sneezing.

You should not experience bladder infection symptoms such as burning with urination, fever, or blood in your urine. If you do have these symptoms, call your health care provider.

The following will help you urinate less during sleep:

  • stop drinking at least an hour before bed
  • if you do need a drink take only a sip to set your mouth
  • go to the restroom directly before laying down to sleep

Shortness of Breath

Often women think they are short of breath due to the extra load they are carrying. But the fact is, your lungs are processing more air than they did before pregnancy. This change may leave you breathing slightly faster and feeling short of breath during moderate activities such as climbing stairs, going for walks, or light exercise. 

Contact your OB if you experience chest pain, especially if it is restricted to one side or the other.

Constipation

Sorry, we have to talk about it. Constipation affects at least half of all pregnant women and can be a very uncomfortable third trimester symptom.

It may be caused by an increase in progesterone, which slows the digestive process, or your prenatal vitamins. But don’t stop taking your vitamins. The following will help with your constipation symptoms:

  • water, water, water, drink plenty of it
  • Eat regularly in smaller meals
  • get some form of exercise every day
  • eat high-fiber fruits, vegetables, and grains
  • try a “greens” drink with probiotics
  • or try a fiber supplement (such as Metamucil or Citrucel) or a mild laxative (such as milk of magnesia)

Final Thoughts on Third Trimester Symptoms

Headaches happen all through pregnancy, but if you are trying to deal with them without any medication try using essential oils. I have a helpful post on essential oils for headaches you may like.

I hope this article helps you deal with your third trimester symptoms. Regardless, you will have some of these symptoms no matter what you do. 

I just want you to know it is completely normal, so don’t be afraid to talk about any concerns with your OB or midwife. They have heard it all, and you must get any help you need to be healthy and as comfortable as possible. 

My midwife referred me to a physical therapist for pelvic pain, and I’m so glad I got the help. So, do what you need to do to get through these last weeks.

And in the end, whatever symptoms you experience. just know it will all have been worth it when you see your baby’s beautiful face.

If you enjoy this article you may also want to check out my tips for going to Disney World with your baby for an amazing 1st birthday and everything you need to know about the Disney baby care center.

third trimester symptoms maternity photography
pregnancy couple photography third trimester on www.artsyfartzy.com

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