Pregnancy Third Trimester

Congratulations, you've reached the home stretch. As your fetus continues to grow, you should prepare for the delivery of the baby. You may feel a little uncomfortable as you continue to gain weight and your false labor contractions continue. It is a good idea to start taking childbirth classes and breastfeeding classes around this time. Included below is a list of some of the changes and symptoms you can expect during this, your final trimester:

Increased temperature

As your fetus continues to grow, he/she will radiate heat, causing you to feel hotter. Also, your basal metabolic rate can increase to greater than 20 percent of normal. You may find that in addition to feeling overheated you may also perspire more, especially at night.

Try some of the following tips on staying cool:

• Dress lightly in breathable fabrics, like cotton
  
• Avoid exercising outside in the heat of the day. Take your strolls before breakfast or after dinner, or attend exercise classes in an air-conditioned facility.
  
• Stay out of the sun as much as possible, especially on very hot days.
  
• Take a cool shower or bath.
  
• Go for a swim
  
• Stay air-conditioned when possible. If you have no air-conditioning at home, spend time at the library, a museum, or mall.
  
• Drink lots of fluids; at least eight glasses of water a day, more if you're exercising or perspiring a lot.
  
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
  

The increased frequency of the bladder

As your fetus grows, there is increased pressure being placed on the bladder, causing an increase in urinary frequency. Make sure you don't cut back on fluids in an attempt to cut back on your trips to the bathroom. Also, as before, whenever you feel the urge to empty your bladder, do it.

Swelling

As you near the end of your pregnancy, you might notice more swelling than you had before, especially in your ankles, fingers and face. This is called edema and due to you retaining more fluids. Continue to drink lots of water and rest when you can with your feet elevated.

Some other things that you can do to battle swelling in your ankles and feet include:

• Avoid extended periods of standing
  
• Elevate your legs when you're sitting
  
• Lie down for brief periods when you can, preferably on your left side
  
• Wear comfortable shoes or slippers