Now you have entered the most important and final stage of your pregnancy, the third trimester. You are both excited and a little nervous as you will soon be able to hold your little one in your arms. Also, your baby is growing very rapidly during this time. So, let's see what happens to you and your baby during these five weeks.
Week 26: Baby can hear your songs too!
What's wrong with the baby?
By this week, your baby's hearing, or ability to hear, is fully developed. When you talk or sing, your baby will respond. When he hears those sounds, his heart rate will also increase. He may even start moving his body to the beat of a song you play.
Although the lungs are still developing, they are not yet fully developed. But the baby's brain waves are similar to those of a full-term baby. The baby now has a regular sleep and wake pattern. The baby can also suck its thumb. You may even see it sucking its thumb during an ultrasound.
How is Mom feeling?
You will be relieved to know that your baby is moving around a lot now. Your weight will likely increase by about a pound (about 450 grams) per week during this time. As your baby grows, he or she will push up on your ribcage, causing pain in your ribs . This pressure can also cause indigestion and heartburn . You may feel a stabbing pain in your stomach as the muscles in your uterus stretch.
Constipation may also be a bit more common during this time. Can't sleep at night? If so, try sleeping on your left side. Using extra pillows to make yourself more comfortable will also help a lot.
A little advice for you this week.
If you are planning to return to work after giving birth, it is a good idea to start researching childcare options in your area now. In Sri Lanka, the cost of childcare can vary greatly depending on the region you are in and the location you choose. Therefore, it is worth researching in advance and thinking about a place that suits you.
Week 27: Baby's little hands are very busy now.
What's wrong with the baby?
Your baby's hands are very active now. Thumb sucking helps calm him down, and strengthens the muscles in his cheeks and jaw. Surprisingly, your baby can now cry! His muscles are developing good muscle tone because he's constantly moving around.
How is Mom feeling?
As your uterus continues to grow, you may notice stretch marks on your skin. By now, you've probably gained between 16 and 22 pounds (7 and 10 kilograms). As your belly grows, your balance and mobility may change. Sometimes, the sciatic nerve can become compressed, causing pain in the back, hips, and legs.
As your uterus prepares for labor, you may start to feel Braxton Hicks contractions , or false contractions. These aren't as frequent or painful as real labor. But talk to your doctor about these. Also, ask your doctor about the symptoms of preeclampsia, a dangerous condition that can develop during pregnancy.
A little advice for you this week.
This is a great time to talk to your doctor about labor. Ask them about the signs of labor, how often you should go to the hospital, and what to expect. It's also important to find a good pediatrician to see your baby after delivery.
Week 28: Welcome to the third trimester!
What's wrong with the baby?
This week, your baby weighs 2.4 pounds (about 1.1 kilograms). His brainwave patterns show that he is now in a deep sleep called REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep . That means your baby may be dreaming now! His eyelids are opening, his pupils are growing, and his lungs are developing more branches.
How is Mom feeling?
You've reached the final stage of your journey. As your baby grows, you may experience leg cramps, slight swelling in your ankles and feet, shortness of breath, lower abdominal pain, and occasional Braxton Hicks contractions. You may also need to urinate more frequently as your uterus presses on your bladder. Your sleep may also be disrupted by your baby's movements.
A little advice for you this week.
Even if your partner is planning to be with you during labor, you may want to consider getting the help of a doula. A doula is a trained professional who does not provide medical assistance, but who provides emotional and physical support to the mother during labor. Some studies have shown that the support of a doula can shorten the duration of labor , reduce the need for pain medication, the use of forceps or vacuum, and reduce the likelihood of a cesarean section (C-section).
Week 29: Baby is now smiling from inside the womb!
What's wrong with the baby?
Although the baby's eyes may appear blue now, that color may change later. The baby can now distinguish between bright sunlight and artificial light coming through the uterine wall. Since there is less space inside the womb, the baby's movements and movements are less. However, he continues to kick and stretch his body. The baby's skin is now smooth as fat accumulates on his body. The amazing thing is that the baby's beautiful smile is first seen at this time, especially during sleep.
How is Mom feeling?
By now, you've probably gained between 19-25 pounds (8.5-11.5 kg). Even though you're still a long way from your due date, it's important to be aware of the signs of premature labor .
| Symptom | What to pay attention to |
|---|---|
| Pain like during menstruation | Persistent pain in the lower abdomen or back. |
| Leaking amniotic fluid | A watery liquid that leaks from the vagina in drops or suddenly. |
| Abnormal vaginal discharge | A watery, pink or brown discharge. This may occur after a thick mucus plug has been expelled. |
| If you have any of these symptoms, notify your doctor or hospital immediately. | |
A little advice for you this week.
Your blood pressure may normally rise slightly during the seventh month of pregnancy. But if you experience severe headaches, blurred vision, severe swelling in your hands, feet, or ankles , or sudden weight gain , tell your doctor right away. These could be early signs of a condition called preeclampsia . This is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine .A dangerous situation identified by elevation.
Week 30: Baby now looks like a little human
What's wrong with the baby?
Your baby is now about 17 inches long and weighs about 3 pounds (1.3 kilograms). He is now a little bigger and is starting to regulate his own body temperature. His eyebrows and eyelashes are fully grown, and his hair is thick. His hands are fully formed, and his fingernails are growing. His bone marrow is now taking over the production of red blood cells.
How is Mom feeling?
Your uterus is now well above your navel. As the baby pushes through your ribs, you may think, "I can't believe there's another 10 weeks." You may feel more uncomfortable in your pelvis and abdomen. Your belly may be getting bigger, making it harder to walk or move around. Varicose veins in your legs may cause itching. You may also have very strange, vivid dreams during this time.
A little advice for you this week.
The sac that surrounds the baby, which contains amniotic fluid, is what we call the "bag of waters." This usually breaks just before labor pains begin.
However, if this bag of water breaks prematurely (premature rupture of membranes), there is a risk of infection. Therefore, if this happens, call your doctor or the hospital's emergency department (ETU) immediately without any delay.
Take-Home Message
- The third trimester is a time when your baby's growth is very rapid. Be aware of your baby's movements.
- Understand the difference between Braxton Hicks (false contractions) and real contractions. If in doubt, ask your doctor.
- Always be aware of the symptoms of preterm labor and preeclampsia (severe headache, blurred vision, excessive swelling).
- If you notice any of these risk symptoms, do not delay and inform your doctor or hospital immediately.
- Talk openly with your doctor about your delivery, pain management, and caring for your baby afterward.
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