The third trimester marks the final stretch of your pregnancy journey, bringing both excitement and anticipation as you prepare to meet your baby. From week 28 to delivery, your body and baby undergo significant changes as you both get ready for birth. At PregnancyDate.online, we want to help you navigate this important time with confidence and preparation.
Use our pregnancy calculator to track your exact week and countdown to your due date. Understanding your timeline helps you prepare appropriately for labor, delivery, and your baby's arrival.
Third Trimester Overview (Weeks 28-40)
Weeks 28-32: Early Third Trimester
Your baby's brain develops rapidly during this time, and they begin to regulate their own body temperature. You may notice stronger, more frequent movements as space becomes tighter. Your healthcare provider will monitor your baby's growth and position more closely.
Weeks 33-36: Pre-Term Preparation
Your baby's lungs continue maturing, and they gain significant weight. You may experience Braxton Hicks contractions as your uterus practices for labor. This is when you should finalize birth preparations and pack your hospital bag.
Weeks 37-40: Full Term and Ready
Your baby is considered full-term at 37 weeks. They continue gaining weight and strength while you may experience signs that labor is approaching. Stay alert for labor signs while trying to rest and prepare mentally for delivery.
Common Third Trimester Changes
Physical Changes You May Experience
- Increased back pain and pelvic pressure
- Shortness of breath as baby grows
- Frequent urination as baby presses on bladder
- Swelling in feet, ankles, and hands
- Difficulty sleeping comfortably
- Heartburn and indigestion
- Braxton Hicks contractions
Emotional Changes
- Excitement mixed with anxiety about labor
- Nesting instinct and urge to prepare
- Concerns about parenting abilities
- Impatience as due date approaches
- Mood swings due to hormonal changes
Recognizing Labor Signs
Early Labor Signs
- Lightening: Baby drops lower into pelvis
- Bloody show: Loss of mucus plug with blood streaks
- Nesting instinct: Sudden burst of energy to organize
- Diarrhea: Body's way of clearing intestines
- Back pain: Persistent lower back discomfort
Active Labor Signs - Call Your Healthcare Provider
- Regular contractions: Every 5 minutes for 1 hour
- Water breaking: Rupture of amniotic sac
- Intense contractions: Can't talk through them
- Contractions lasting 60+ seconds
- Decreased fetal movement
Creating Your Birth Plan
Pain Management Preferences
- Natural pain relief methods (breathing, positioning, massage)
- Epidural or other medical pain relief
- Water birth or hydrotherapy options
- Movement and position preferences during labor
Labor and Delivery Preferences
- Who you want present during delivery
- Lighting and music preferences
- Episiotomy preferences
- Cord clamping timing
- Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth
Postpartum Preferences
- Breastfeeding plans and support
- Rooming-in with baby
- Visitor policies
- Newborn procedures and timing
Preparing Your Hospital Bag
For Labor and Delivery
- Comfortable labor gown or your own clothes
- Non-slip slippers or socks
- Hair ties and comfortable headband
- Lip balm and lotion
- Phone charger and camera
- Snacks for after delivery
For Hospital Stay
- Going-home outfit (maternity size)
- Nursing bras and comfortable underwear
- Toiletries and personal care items
- Comfortable pajamas or nightgowns
- Slippers and robe
For Baby
- Going-home outfit in newborn and 0-3 month sizes
- Car seat (properly installed)
- Blankets for warmth
- Hat and mittens
Prenatal Appointments and Tests
Increased Monitoring
During the third trimester, you'll have more frequent prenatal appointments:
- Weeks 28-36: Every 2-3 weeks
- Weeks 36-40: Weekly appointments
- After 40 weeks: Twice weekly monitoring
Common Third Trimester Tests
- Group B Strep test (35-37 weeks): Screening for bacterial infection
- Growth ultrasounds: Monitor baby's size and position
- Non-stress tests: Check baby's heart rate and movement
- Biophysical profile: Assess baby's well-being
Staying Comfortable in Late Pregnancy
Sleep Strategies
- Use pregnancy pillows for support
- Sleep on your left side for optimal blood flow
- Elevate your upper body if experiencing heartburn
- Try relaxation techniques before bed
Managing Discomfort
- Wear supportive maternity clothes and shoes
- Take warm baths for muscle relaxation
- Practice gentle prenatal yoga or stretching
- Use heat or cold therapy for aches
- Consider prenatal massage
Preparing for Breastfeeding
Learning About Breastfeeding
- Take a breastfeeding class
- Read about proper latch and positioning
- Learn about common challenges and solutions
- Find lactation consultant contact information
Gathering Supplies
- Nursing bras in appropriate sizes
- Nursing pads for leakage
- Nipple cream for comfort
- Breast pump if planning to pump
- Comfortable nursing clothes
Final Preparations
Home Preparations
- Install and inspect car seat
- Set up nursery and baby essentials
- Prepare meals for after delivery
- Arrange help for household tasks
- Confirm pediatrician appointment
Mental and Emotional Preparation
- Practice relaxation and breathing techniques
- Discuss fears and concerns with your partner
- Connect with other new mothers for support
- Prepare for the unpredictability of labor
- Focus on the excitement of meeting your baby
When to Call Your Healthcare Provider
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
- Regular contractions before 37 weeks
- Sudden gush or steady leak of fluid
- Severe headaches or vision changes
- Sudden severe swelling
- Decreased fetal movement
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Signs of infection (fever, chills)
Conclusion
The third trimester is an exciting time of final preparations as you get ready to welcome your baby. While it can bring physical discomforts and emotional intensity, remember that each day brings you closer to meeting your little one. Focus on taking care of yourself, preparing practically and emotionally, and trusting in your body's ability to bring your baby safely into the world.
Use the resources at PregnancyDate.online to stay informed about your pregnancy timeline and what to expect as you approach your due date. Our pregnancy calculator helps you track your progress and prepare for each milestone.
Remember that every birth experience is unique, and flexibility is key. Trust your healthcare team, communicate your needs and preferences, and prepare for the incredible moment when you finally hold your baby in your arms. At PregnancyDate.online, we're here to support you through every step of your pregnancy journey.