- Health
In the home stretch (the third trimester!!)
You are in the home stretch. Take time to care for your body and your mind. And while you wait, start deciding on that baby name!
YOUR BODY:
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You gain weight faster in the last month of your pregnancy.
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Your feet, hands and ankles may swell. You may have back and leg pains.
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As the baby’s head moves lower, you may feel more pressure on your bladder, but less near your ribs allowing you to breathe easier.
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Your uterus lowers as the baby drops toward the birth canal. You may feel pressure low in your pelvis as the baby settles into position for birth.
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The Braxton Hicks contractions are more frequent.
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Call your doctor if you have four or more contractions in one hour.
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You should see your doctor about every two weeks during the third trimester and then have weekly visits during the last month of pregnancy.
YOUR BABY:
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Your baby will continue to grow on average to 20 inches and 7 pounds.
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The brain and nervous system are growing quickly. The lungs continue to mature.
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Your baby’s sense of hearing is improving. Read aloud so your baby knows your voice!
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The baby may settle into a head-down position and may seem quieter because there is less space to move.
Your baby will be considered full term at 39 weeks.
SOURCE:
Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Palm Beach County
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Related resources
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- Health
- Other
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Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Palm Beach County
A safety net of local services and support for pregnant women and families with infants, focusing on racial disparities in birth outcomes
561-623-2800 Website Email -
- Health
- Parenting
March of Dimes
National information to improve infants' health by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality
561-684-0102 Website Email -
- Behavior
- Health
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Children's Services Council of Palm Beach County
Healthy Start Healthy Beginnings, a network of local intervention and prevention services for pregnant women and families raising young children
1-888-634-7900 Website Email