When you first find out you are pregnant, there are always a wide range of feelings. You can feel happy, sad, scared, and a myriad of other emotions. These will usually even out somewhat after your first trimester. By the second trimester you feel almost invincible. But by the third trimester, you have one thing on your mind, and that is delivery.
There are many things that contribute to your discomfort in the third trimester. Many women are experiencing Braxton Hicks labor pains. The size of your belly makes it hard to sleep. Swollen ankles and a sore back are also common. One top of it all, you are anxious for the baby to arrive, but may be terrified as well.
Help for Lower Back Pains
As your baby grows you will become more uncomfortable. Unfortunately, you cannot stop your baby from growing, nor would you really want to. For backaches, consider a warm heating pad or a massage from your partner. A warm shower beating down on your lower back will often help as well. Sitting frequently can also take the strain off your lower back. If it is not possible to get off your feet, stand with one foot up on something, like a box or a chair. This will help relieve some of the pressure on your lower back.
Controlling Heartburn
Heartburn is one of the most common complaints in the third trimester of pregnancy. The baby is pushing up on your stomach, and it can be extremely uncomfortable. Eat several small meals, instead of one large one. Avoid spicy foods or high caffeine drinks. When you lay down, lay on your left side to ease your discomfort. Check with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications to relieve heartburn.
Relief from Swollen Feet and Hands
If you have a problem with swollen feet, do not be alarmed. Many women experience this, and it can really make walking uncomfortable. Try to stay off your feet and elevate them several times a day. You may also experience swollen hands as well, so be sure to remove rings that might not come off without cutting through them.
Proper Rest is Important
You will probably be very tired as well. Try to nap as often as possible. Go to sleep as early as you can. You will not be getting much sleep for the first few months after the baby is born and this is a good time to enjoy a good night's sleep. Of course, you may need to urinate frequently during the night. Try to limit your fluid intake before bed to minimize these interruptions of your sleep.
These are some of the best ways to help you feel more comfortable during your third trimester. You will hear others that can offer other great advice. Choose what is best for you, and speak with your doctor if your discomfort continues or becomes unbearable. And, never ignore signs of distress that may mean something else is going on, like bleeding, vaginal pain, or not feeling your baby move for a few days. These could be signs of problems that need to be checked by your doctor.
The best advice is to try and enjoy your pregnancy, even through the third trimester. Keep your eye on the prize. Soon you will have a soft, adorable baby, and all the discomforts will seem like a thing of the past.
Note: This article is not intended to be medical advice for women in their third trimester of pregnancy. Always consult your doctor with questions and concerns you have, and take your doctor's advice. He knows what is best for you and your baby.
