Common Effects of Pregnancy in the Third Trimester

Overview

During the third trimester of pregnancy, there are several common unpleasant effects that women may experience. Here are some of those effects and what can be done to treat or counter them.

Key facts about sore breasts in the third trimester of pregnancy include:

Sore breasts are caused by hormonal changes in preparation for breastfeeding.
Treatment includes wearing a larger, more comfortable, and supportive bra can help prevent or alleviate breast pain during pregnancy.
When to call the doctor: If the breast pain becomes severe or persists.

Key facts about swelling in the third trimester of pregnancy include:

Swelling is caused by increased blood volume and fluid retention.
Treatment includes elevating the feet, wearing comfortable shoes, and avoiding standing or sitting for long periods can help reduce swelling.
When to call the doctor: If swelling is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like headache or vision changes.

Key facts about sensations of pressure or fullness in the vagina in the third trimester of pregnancy include:

Feelings of pressure or fullness in the vagina are caused by increased blood flow, pressure from the growing uterus and fetus.
These sensations are usually uncomfortable rather than painful and rarely require treatment. However, if severe vaginal discomfort or pain occurs, it's important to talk to a doctor.
When to call the doctor: If severe vaginal discomfort or pain occurs.

Key facts about abdominal (stomach) pain in the third trimester of pregnancy include:

Abdominal pain can be caused by increasing pressure on the abdomen as the uterus and fetus (unborn baby) grow, irregular contractions known as Braxton Hicks.
Most abdominal pain during the third trimester is mild to moderate and doesn't require treatment. Resting, changing positions, and applying heat can provide relief.
When to call the doctor: If abdominal pain is severe, persistent, accompanied by bleeding, or if there's a sudden decrease in baby's activity.

Key facts about aches and swelling in the third trimester of pregnancy include:

Carrying around the growing baby puts added demands on the body, which can cause aches and swelling
Treatment involvesesting with feet elevated, avoiding standing for long periods, gentle exercise like walking, wearing comfortable shoes, and using cold compresses can help reduce aches and swelling.
When to call the doctor: If swelling is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like headache or vision changes.

Key facts about heartburn in the third timester of pregnancy include:

Pressure from the growing uterus on the stomach can cause heartburn.
Treatment involves eating smaller meals more frequently, avoiding spicy and fatty foods, staying upright after eating, and using over-the-counter antacids after consulting with a doctor can help manage heartburn.
When to call the doctor: If heartburn is severe or persists despite lifestyle changes.

Key facts about difficulty sleeping in the third trimester include:

Discomfort due to the growing belly and hormonal changes can make it difficult to sleep.
Treatment involves establishing a bedtime routine, using pillows for support while sleeping on your side, avoiding caffeine and large meals before bedtime can improve sleep quality.
When to call the doctor: If difficulty sleeping is significantly impacting daily functioning or mental well-being.

It's important to remember that while these remedies may help alleviate discomfort during pregnancy's third trimester, it's always best to consult with a doctor before trying any home remedies or over-the-counter medications. Additionally, any pregnant woman who experiences unfamiliar pain in the abdomen or develops any other worrying symptoms should talk to their doctor.