Third Trimester of Pregnancy

What will happen to Mother?

Mother:

• Irregular, painless contractions of the uterus may be experienced. (Braxton Hicks contractions)
  
  
• Heartburn, haemorrhoids, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping may be experienced in the early part of the third trimester.
  
  
• Toward the end of the third trimester, breathing may improve due to the uterus settling down into the pelvis, this may also cause an increase in frequency of urination.

What will happen to Baby?

Baby:

• The baby becomes aware of sounds outside the body, the pupils can react to light
  
  
• The baby stores fat under the skin
  
  
• The baby increases the store of maternal antibodies and thus resists some diseases.
  
  
• By 40 weeks, the baby is 45-55cm long (18-22in.) and usually weighs at least 3200g or 7lbs.