Preparing for Baby’s Arrival
The third trimester, from weeks 27 to 40, is the final stretch of pregnancy when the baby grows rapidly and prepares for birth. During this time, the baby’s lungs, brain, and other organs reach full development, and the baby often shifts into a head-down position in preparation for delivery. For the mother, this phase can bring increased physical discomfort, including back pain, swelling in the feet and hands, shortness of breath, and more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions. Sleep can become challenging, and regular prenatal visits—usually weekly from week 36—become important to monitor the baby’s position and overall health. It’s also the time to finalize your birth plan, pack your hospital bag, and prepare emotionally and physically for labor and delivery. Though it can be physically demanding, the third trimester brings excitement and anticipation as the journey of pregnancy nears its joyful conclusion.
Baby’s Final Growth Phase
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Rapid weight gain
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Lung and brain development
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Baby moves into birth position
Common Late Pregnancy Symptoms
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Braxton Hicks contractions
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Shortness of breath
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Frequent urination
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Swelling in feet and hands
Final Preparations
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Birth plan discussion
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Hospital bag checklist
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Touring the birthing center
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Breastfeeding planning
Third Trimester Appointments
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Weekly checkups from 36 weeks
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Cervix checks
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Monitoring baby’s position and heartbeat