So, you’ve made it through the first few weeks of pregnancy, and you can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Pregnancy might not have been the easiest walk in the park, but you’ve survived it so far, right? It can’t get any worse, right? Wrong. For many women, the toughest part of pregnancy is those last few weeks, as you eagerly wait for your little one to come… and your body goes through even more changes.
After the first and second trimester of pregnancy, we come to the biggest, roundest, most uncomfortable stage: the third trimester. The third trimester refers to weeks 29 through 40 of your pregnancy—months seven, eight and nine—when you can just see the end in sight and could go into labor at almost any moment. The third trimester comes with its own plethora of challenges, and can often be a pretty difficult stage for many women. So, we compiled a guide with the top tips for surviving your third trimester. Here’s how to make it through these last few weeks until your new little one arrives.
The biggest aspect to remember in third trimester is to take it easy on yourself during these last couple of months. It can be tempting to continue to push yourself and try to continue the lifestyle you were leading early-on in the pregnancy, or even before pregnancy. However, this can end up being even more exhausting and strenuous on your body. After all, you’re growing a whole other human being. You might find that you’re not able to do as many things as you did before, and this is perfectly okay. Be sure to rest as much as you can. Relax and put your feet up to help reduce swelling, soak in a bath and don’t be afraid to say no to plans with friends or family. Continue to listen to your body and its needs throughout the third trimester.
Many of the struggles during the third trimester involve heartburn and indigestion. As your belly grows, it becomes more and more obvious that there is very little room for two people in one body. Be sure to drink lots of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Dehydration can be a leading cause for premature labor, so drink water consistently as the day goes on. While it might be more of a hassle to get up and go to the bathroom, it helps ensure you and baby stay healthy and hydrated as you go into the last few weeks.
While maintaining good hydration, try to keep up with physical activity during this last trimester, as well. While it is definitely important to listen to your body and relax when necessary, keeping fit and being physical activity will help you along, as well. Even if being active is the last thing you want to do, give it a try when you can. Being physically active will help improve your mood, aid digestion and even help you sleep at night. As Mommy Edition says, “Staying active during these last few months will also aid you to have an easier and safer labor with fewer complications.” For ideas on how to safely be active during pregnancy, check out our article on The Why, What and How of Exercising While Pregnant.
As you experience your third trimester of pregnancy, it’s easy to feel all alone, and like no one truly understands what you’re going through. While this might be true, don’t be afraid to ask for help throughout the process. Ask for help from your friends and family in any area you need. Maybe you need someone to help with housework, yard work, running errands or childcare. It could be as simple as asking your significant other, older children or other loved ones to get involved and contribute more with chores or other necessary work. If someone offers help, don’t be embarrassed to take them up on the offer and appreciate their efforts.
As you head into your third trimester of pregnancy, stay relaxed and unwind with a glass of premium non-alcoholic wine. Pregnancies are stressful, and the last few weeks are definitely no exception. Survive your third trimester by remembering to relax, staying hydrated, being active and asking for help. Then before you know it, your little one will arrive, and you can embark on a whole new adventure.