Medical information in this article is sourced from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Mayo Clinic, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Cleveland Clinic. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with questions about your pregnancy.
You’ve made it to the third trimester of pregnancy, and the finish line is finally in sight. These final weeks, from week 28 until delivery, are an exciting and intense time as your body prepares for birth and your baby gets ready to meet you.
If you’re feeling a mix of anticipation, exhaustion, and “is it time yet?” you’re in good company. The third trimester brings big changes, and knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and less overwhelmed.
In this guide, we’ll walk through what’s happening with your body, how your baby is developing, and what you can do to take care of yourself during these final weeks.
Not sure exactly how far along you are? Use our Due Date Calculator to find out.
When Does the Third Trimester Start?
The third trimester begins at week 28 of pregnancy and lasts until you deliver, typically around week 40. That’s roughly 12 weeks, though babies have their own timelines.
You might find it helpful to think of the third trimester in three phases:
Early third trimester (weeks 28 to 32 ): Your baby is growing quickly, and you’re adjusting to a bigger belly.
Mid third trimester (weeks 33 to 36): Your baby is putting on weight and getting into position. You might start feeling ready to be done.
Late third trimester (weeks 37 to 40+): Full term begins at 39 weeks. Any day now, you’ll meet your baby.
Physical Changes to Expect
Your body is working incredibly hard during these final weeks. Here’s what you might experience:
Your belly is getting bigger. This one’s obvious, but it affects everything. Bending over, tying shoes, getting comfortable in bed, even breathing can feel harder as your baby takes up more space.
Braxton Hicks contractions. These “practice contractions” are your uterus warming up for the real thing. They’re usually irregular and go away when you change positions or drink water. If they become regular and painful, that’s when you call your provider.
Back pain and pelvic pressure. As your baby drops lower and your body prepares for birth, you might feel pressure in your pelvis, hips, and lower back. This is normal, though not exactly comfortable.
Shortness of breath. Your growing uterus is pushing up against your diaphragm, leaving less room for your lungs to expand. This usually gets better once your baby “drops” lower in your pelvis.
Swelling in your feet and ankles. Some swelling is normal, especially at the end of the day. However, sudden or severe swelling, especially in your face or hands, should be reported to your provider right away.
Frequent urination. Remember this from the first trimester? It’s back. Your baby is pressing on your bladder, and trips to the bathroom increase again.
Trouble sleeping. Between the belly, the bathroom trips, the heartburn, and the racing thoughts, sleep can be hard to come by. If you’re struggling, our article on sleep during pregnancy has tips that might help.
How Your Baby Is Developing
While you’re feeling all these changes, your baby is busy growing and getting ready for life outside the womb.
Weeks 28 to 32: Your baby’s eyes can open and close, and they’re practicing breathing movements. They’re gaining fat, which will help regulate body temperature after birth. By week 32, most babies are about 4 pounds and 17 inches long.
Weeks 33 to 36: Your baby’s bones are hardening (except for the skull, which stays soft for delivery ). Most babies turn head-down during this time. Their lungs are maturing, getting ready for that first breath. By week 36, your baby weighs around 6 pounds.
Weeks 37 to 40: Your baby is considered “early term” at 37 weeks and “full term” at 39 weeks. They’re adding the final layers of fat, and their brain and lungs are still developing right up until birth. The average newborn weighs 7 to 8 pounds, but healthy babies come in all sizes.
Common Third Trimester Symptoms and What Helps
Most third trimester discomforts are normal, even if they’re annoying. Here are some common ones and what you can do:
| Symptom | What Helps |
| Back pain | Prenatal yoga, warm compresses, supportive shoes, pregnancy pillow |
| Heartburn | Eat smaller meals, avoid lying down after eating, skip spicy or acidic foods |
| Insomnia | Sleep on your side with pillows, limit fluids before bed, keep a consistent bedtime |
| Swelling | Elevate your feet, stay hydrated, reduce salt intake, take short walks |
| Braxton Hicks | Change positions, drink water, rest, take a warm bath |
| Leg cramps | Stretch before bed, stay hydrated, gentle massage |
These are general suggestions that help many women, but every pregnancy is different. If a symptom is severe, persistent, or worrying you, check with your healthcare provider.
Prenatal Appointments in the Third Trimester
Your appointment schedule picks up during the third trimester. Here’s what to expect:
Weeks 28 to 36: You’ll typically see your provider every two weeks.
Weeks 36 to 40: Appointments become weekly as your due date approaches.
At these visits, your provider will check your blood pressure, measure your belly, listen to your baby’s heartbeat, and monitor your baby’s position. Starting around week 36, they may also check for signs that labor is approaching.
Group B Strep test: Between weeks 36 and 37, you’ll be tested for Group B Strep, a common bacteria. If you test positive, you’ll receive antibiotics during labor to protect your baby. This is routine and nothing to worry about.
These appointments are also a great time to ask questions and discuss your birth plan. If you’re not sure what to ask, our article on prenatal appointments can help.
Preparing for Baby’s Arrival
The third trimester is when the “getting ready” kicks into high gear. Here are some things to think about:
Pack your hospital bag. By week 36, it’s a good idea to have a bag ready. Include comfortable clothes, toiletries, phone charger, going home outfit for baby, and anything else that will help you feel comfortable.
Install your car seat. Most hospitals won’t let you leave without a properly installed car seat. Do this ahead of time so you’re not scrambling.
Choose a pediatrician. Your baby will need to see a doctor within the first few days after birth, so it helps to have someone lined up.
Talk about your birth plan. Whether you have specific preferences or you’re going with the flow, it’s good to think through your options and discuss them with your provider and support person.
Rest when you can. This one is easier said than done, but try to take it easy when possible. Your body is doing a lot.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Most third trimester symptoms are normal, but some need immediate attention. Call your healthcare provider or go to the hospital if you experience:
•Heavy vaginal bleeding
•Severe headache that won’t go away, especially with vision changes
•Sudden, severe swelling in your face, hands, or feet
•Your baby is moving less than usual
•Contractions that come regularly before 37 weeks
•Your water breaks
•Severe abdominal pain
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it’s always okay to call. Your care team would rather hear from you than have you worry alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the third trimester start?
The third trimester begins at week 28 and continues until you deliver your baby, usually around week 40.
How much weight will I gain in the third trimester?
Most women gain about 1 pound per week during the third trimester, though this varies. Your provider will monitor your weight gain and let you know if there are any concerns.
Is it normal to feel exhausted in the third trimester?
Yes, absolutely. Your body is working hard to support your growing baby, and carrying the extra weight is tiring. Rest when you can and don’t feel guilty about slowing down.
How do I know if it’s Braxton Hicks or real labor?
Braxton Hicks contractions are usually irregular, don’t get stronger over time, and go away when you change positions or drink water. Real labor contractions come at regular intervals, get closer together, become more intense, and don’t stop when you move around.
When should I pack my hospital bag?
It’s a good idea to have your bag packed by week 36, just in case your baby decides to come early. Better to be ready and waiting than scrambling at the last minute.
The Home Stretch
The third trimester can feel like the longest weeks of your life, but it’s also an incredible time. Your body is doing something amazing, and every day brings you closer to holding your baby.
Take care of yourself. Ask for help when you need it. And remember that you don’t have to have everything figured out. You’ve got this.
Ready to count down the days? Use our <a href=”https://duedatecalculators.com”>Due Date Calculator</a> to see exactly how far along you are and when you can expect to meet your little one.
You’re almost there, mama. The best is yet to come.
References
1.American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. How Your Fetus Grows During Pregnancy. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-your-fetus-grows-during-pregnancy
2.Mayo Clinic. Third Trimester Pregnancy: What to Expect. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20046767
3.March of Dimes. The Third Trimester. https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/third-trimester
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Every pregnancy is unique. Please talk to your healthcare provider about your specific situation and any questions about your third trimester.
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