The third trimester

In the third trimester you will probably be feeling a combination of excitement as the birth approaches, mixed with an increasing desire to hurry things along. As you are now carrying a large weight around, you will experience a number of symptoms related specifically to your increasing size. By now your uterus, which used to weigh about 50grams, will be carrying your baby, the placenta and up to about a litre of amniotic fluid, so it is little wonder that you will be feeling a bit uncomfortable.

Physical changes

Shortness of breath
Your diaphragm is increasingly pushed up by your growing uterus, which decreases lung capacity. At the same time, progesterone is causing you to breathe more deeply ensuring that, although your lung capacity is decreased, you are actually taking in a higher volume of air. Improving your posture can help you breath easier. If you are having any difficulty sleeping, try propping yourself up on pillows or lay on your side.

During the last couple of weeks of pregnancy, this shortness of breath will subside when the baby drops down into your pelvis in preparation for birth.

Sleeping difficulties
Because of your increasing size and shortness of breath, you may find that sleeping is more difficult during this trimester. Try sleeping on your side or using pillows to prop yourself into a comfortable position.

Leaking urine
Increasing pressure on your bladder can cause slight leakage of urine when you cough or laugh, however this should not be a problem after the baby is born.

Skin changes
Varicose veins can appear in later pregnancy as the growing uterus exerts pressure on the veins in the legs. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about them and take the following steps to try to improve circulation;

Itchy skin
Your abdomen in particular can become itchy as the skin stretches and tightens. Keep your skin well moisturised and try not to scratch. Continued...