As the journey through pregnancy progresses, the third trimester unveils itself, bringing new challenges and exciting developments. This phase is marked by the continuous growth of the baby, which can lead to increased discomfort for the mother. The fetus gains weight, stores fat, and begins to position itself for the upcoming birth. It is important to note that pregnancies are considered early term if the baby is born after 37 weeks, while reaching the full-term milestone occurs at 39 weeks.
A Developing Fetus
During the 28th week of pregnancy, the fetus undergoes significant growth and development. It reaches a length of approximately ten inches and weighs between two and three pounds. Over the next 12 weeks or so, it will continue to grow until it reaches its birth size. As the fetus grows, it occupies more space in the uterus, which can lead to some discomfort for the mother.
One common issue experienced by expectant mothers during this stage is labored breathing. This occurs because the expanding fetus restricts the space available for the lungs to expand, making it harder for the mother to take deep breaths.
In addition to breathing difficulties, the mother may also experience increased urinary frequency. This is caused by the excess pressure exerted on the bladder by the growing fetus. The need to urinate more frequently can be inconvenient and uncomfortable for the mother.
Heartburn, indigestion, and constipation are other common discomforts that may worsen during this time. As the fetus grows, it can put pressure on the stomach and intestines, leading to these digestive issues. Expectant mothers may find relief by making dietary changes and practicing certain exercises.
Changes in the Mother’s Body During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the mother experiences various changes in her body. One noticeable change is the feeling of heat, which is caused by the baby radiating its own body heat. Additionally, she may experience slight swelling in her ankles, hands, and face. As hormone levels increase, there may be an increase in the growth of excess hair on the arms, legs, and face.
Another common symptom is itching of the abdominal skin, accompanied by the appearance of stretch marks on the belly, thighs, and breasts. Backaches and leg cramps are also prevalent and can sometimes intensify as the pregnancy progresses. It’s not uncommon for colostrum, a precursor to breast milk, to leak from the breasts at this stage.