Congratulations -You’ve reached the third trimester!
If your pregnancy symptoms decrease during the second trimester, be prepared that you’ll likely start having some more symptoms around this time (we know that’s not the news you wanted but it helps you to be prepared). If any of the symptoms you’re experiencing interrupt your ability to go about your day, talk to your healthcare provider! We recommend focusing on sleep hygiene, trying to develop a bedtime routine that ensures maximum relaxation, and considering using extra pillows.
You’ll likely start having more frequent office visits with your healthcare provider at 28 weeks. Most providers start seeing their patients every other week, which will continue until about 36 weeks pregnant (when you will start going every week until the birth). This is also a good time to start thinking and planning for the postpartum period. In general, everyone focuses on the pregnancy trimesters but we recommend implementing a plan for what’s sometimes referred to as ‘The Fourth Trimester’ too. This will ensure you have the necessary support in place, a plan to care for your baby’s needs, and importantly care for YOU and your partner.
During the third trimester, calcium is particularly important. Make sure you eat plenty of calcium-rich foods. Some parents start to experience birth anxiety (or worsened birth anxiety) during the third trimester. If you’re experiencing stress or anxiety around the birth of your baby, please talk to your healthcare provider for recommendations.