Third Trimester of Pregnancy

Summary

The video provides an overview of pregnancy, specifically focusing on the third trimester, which begins at week 28 and lasts until delivery. It details fetal development milestones, such as growth in size, the ability to sense light, and the positioning of the fetus for birth. The mother may experience various physical changes, including shortness of breath, swelling, and labor contractions. The video emphasizes the importance of consulting healthcare providers for any concerns regarding fetal growth or maternal health during this critical period.

Takeaways

• 👶 Pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, starting from the first day of your last menstrual period.
• 📅 The 40 weeks are divided into three trimesters, with the third trimester beginning at week 28.
• 📏 By week 28, the fetus is over a foot long from head to rump.
• ⚖️ Rapid weight gain occurs in the fetus by week 32, and the baby's eyes can sense light.
• 🦴 At 36 weeks, the bones harden while the skull remains soft for easier delivery.
• 🔄 The baby typically turns to a head-down position in preparation for birth around week 36.
• 🌬️ During the third trimester, expect discomfort due to pressure on organs.
• 💧 Common maternal symptoms include shortness of breath, heartburn, and swelling in the ankles, fingers, and face.
• 🥛 Tender breasts may leak colostrum, a watery pre-milk, during this stage.
• 💤 Pregnant individuals may experience trouble sleeping, hemorrhoids, and both Braxton Hicks and regular contractions.

Q & A

What is the typical duration of pregnancy?

Pregnancy usually lasts about 40 weeks, starting from the first day of the last menstrual period.

How is the 40-week pregnancy period divided?

The 40 weeks are grouped into three segments called trimesters.

When does the third trimester begin?

The third trimester begins around week 28 of the pregnancy.

What significant changes occur by week 32 of pregnancy?

By week 32, the baby is gaining weight quickly, can sense light, and the eyelids can open and close.

What happens to the baby's bones by week 36?

By week 36, the baby's bones have started to harden, but the bones of the skull remain soft to facilitate passage through the birth canal.

What position does the baby typically assume before birth?

Around week 36, the baby usually turns to a head-down position in preparation for birth.

What are some common discomforts experienced in the third trimester?

Common discomforts include shortness of breath, heartburn, swelling of the ankles, fingers, and face, and trouble sleeping.

What is colostrum and when might it occur?

Colostrum is a watery pre-milk that may leak from tender breasts, typically occurring as the body prepares for breastfeeding.

What are Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular false labor pains that can occur in the third trimester.

When should a pregnant person consult their healthcare provider?

Pregnant individuals should talk to their healthcare provider if they have questions about their baby's development or concerns about their own health.