Adapting to Pregnancy: Third Trimester

Man and pregnant woman walking in park.

Although common during pregnancy, some discomforts may seem worse in the final weeks. Simple lifestyle changes can help. Take care of yourself. And ask your partner to help out with small tasks.

Limiting leg problems

Ways to combat leg issues:

  • Wear support hose all day.

  • Avoid snug shoes and clothes that bind, like tight pants and socks with elastic tops.

  • Sit with your feet and legs raised often.

Caring for your breasts

Tips to follow include:

  • Wash with plain water. Avoid using harsh soaps or rubbing alcohol. They may cause dryness.

  • Wear a nursing bra for extra support. It can also hide any leaks from your nipples.

Controlling hemorrhoids

Ways to avoid hemorrhoids include:

  • Eat foods that are high in fiber. Also, exercise and drink enough fluids. This will reduce constipation and hemorrhoids.

  • Sleep and nap on your side. This limits pressure on the veins of your rectum.

  • Try not to stand or sit for long periods.

Controlling back pain

As your body changes during pregnancy, your back must work in new ways. Back pain is due to many causes. Physical changes in your body can strain your back and its supporting muscles. Also, hormones (chemicals that carry messages throughout the body) increase during pregnancy. This can affect how your muscles and joints work together. All of these changes can lead to pain. Pain may be felt in the upper or lower back. Pain is also common in the pelvis. Some pregnant women have sciatica. This is pain caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve running down the back of the leg. Ask your healthcare provider for specific tips and exercises to help control your back pain.

Tips to help you rest

Good rest and sleep will help you feel better. Here are some ideas:

  • Ask your partner to massage your shoulders, neck, or back.

  • Limit the errands you do each day.

  • Lie down in the afternoon or after work for a few minutes.

  • Take a warm bath before you go to sleep.

  • Drink warm milk or teas without caffeine.

  • Avoid coffee, black tea, and cola.

Stopping heartburn

  • Avoid spicy, greasy, fried, or acidic foods.

  • Eat small amounts more often. Eat slowly.

  • Wait 2 hours after eating before lying down.

  • Sleep with your upper body raised 6 inches.

Managing mood swings

Ways to manage mood swings include:

  • Know that mood changes are normal.

  • Exercise often, but get plenty of rest.

  • Address any concerns and limit stress. Talking to your partner, other women, or your healthcare provider may help.

Dealing with urinary frequency

Tips to deal with having to urinate often include:

  • Drink plenty of water all day. If you drink a lot in the evening, though, you may have to get up more in the night.

  • Limit coffee, black tea, and cola.

« Back to Health Library