13 Most Common 3rd trimester Pregnancy Questions You NEED to Know.

Summary

In this video, Diana, a physician assistant specializing in women's health, answers common questions about the third trimester of pregnancy. She addresses topics such as swollen feet, baby movements, the importance of the Tdap vaccine, signs of labor, mucus plugs, and more. Diana also offers tips on what to expect during labor and delivery, birth control options post-birth, and traveling in the third trimester. This comprehensive guide provides expectant mothers with valuable insights to navigate the final stages of pregnancy and prepare for childbirth with confidence.

Takeaways

• 😀 Swelling in the hands, feet, and ankles is common during the third trimester due to increased pregnancy hormones and pressure from the uterus. Elevating the legs and reducing salt intake can help.
• 😀 Fetal movements should be monitored in the third trimester, with at least 10 movements every two hours. If you notice fewer movements than usual, contact your OB.
• 😀 The Tdap vaccine, recommended during the third trimester, helps protect newborns from pertussis (whooping cough), which can be life-threatening to infants.
• 😀 Labor signs include painful, frequent contractions and a possible gush of water. The 5-1-1 rule (contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour) is a good guideline for heading to the hospital.
• 😀 Labor can last 12-18 hours for first-time mothers, and 6-8 hours for subsequent births. C-sections typically take under an hour.
• 😀 Labor pain is intense, but epidurals and spinal anesthesia can reduce the pain significantly. Some may choose to go without anesthesia, depending on their preference.
• 😀 A mucus plug may be expelled before labor begins, and it can appear as sticky, white, or pinkish discharge. Its expulsion signals that labor is near, but it doesn't necessarily mean labor has started.
• 😀 Water breaking might not always be a dramatic gush. It can also leak slowly. If unsure, contact your OB to confirm if it's amniotic fluid.
• 😀 It's generally not possible to induce labor at home. If your pregnancy is healthy and you're not past 42 weeks, it's best to wait for the baby to be ready.
• 😀 Sex is usually safe during the third trimester unless there are complications like preterm birth, placenta previa, or unexplained bleeding. Always consult your OB about what's best for your situation.
• 😀 After birth, there are both permanent and temporary birth control options. These include IUDs, implants, and tubal ligations, with the right choice depending on your family planning goals.
• 😀 Travel in the third trimester is possible, but airlines typically restrict travel after 36 weeks. Discuss with your OB if you have any risks for preterm labor, and be mindful of standing up frequently during long flights.
• 😀 Hospital stays vary: for vaginal deliveries, typically 24-48 hours; for C-sections, around 3-4 days. Your OB will give specific advice based on your birth experience.

Q & A

Is swelling in my hands and feet normal during the third trimester?

Yes, swelling (edema) is common in the third trimester due to increased pregnancy hormones and pressure from the enlarging uterus. Elevating your legs, reducing salt intake, walking frequently, and wearing compression stockings can help reduce swelling.

How can I monitor my baby’s movements in the third trimester?

You should aim to feel at least 10 movements from your baby every two hours. Any type of movement counts, including kicks, rolls, or stretches. If you notice fewer movements than usual or can't count 10 in two hours, contact your OB.

Why is the Tdap vaccine recommended during pregnancy?

The Tdap vaccine is recommended to protect your newborn from pertussis (whooping cough). It helps develop antibodies in the mother that are passed on to the baby, reducing the risk of hospitalization and death from whooping cough in infants.

What are the signs that I’m going into labor?

Signs of labor include painful contractions that become more frequent and intense. A helpful guideline is the 'five-one-one' rule: contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute, for at least 1 hour. A sudden gush of water can also indicate labor.

How long does labor typically last?

For a first-time vaginal delivery, labor usually lasts 12 to 18 hours. For subsequent births, it may last 6 to 8 hours. A C-section typically takes less than an hour, but labor duration can vary depending on individual circumstances.

Is labor painful?

Yes, labor can be very painful, often described as intense menstrual cramps. However, pain management options like epidurals can significantly reduce the pain. Some women may choose to go without anesthesia.

What does a mucus plug look like and what does its expulsion mean?

The mucus plug is a thick, sticky discharge that can appear white, clear, or pinkish. Its expulsion indicates that your cervix is beginning to open, but it doesn't necessarily mean you're in labor yet.

How can I tell if my water has broken?

While movies often show a dramatic gush of water, in reality, the water might leak slowly. If you're unsure whether it's amniotic fluid or urine, consult your OB, who can test the fluid to confirm.

Can I induce my labor at home?

While some methods may be suggested if you're past 42 weeks, in general, inducing labor at home is not recommended. It's best to wait for your baby to be ready unless there are medical reasons for early induction.

Is it safe to have sex in the third trimester?

In most cases, sex is safe during the third trimester if you have a healthy pregnancy. However, if you have conditions like placenta previa, a history of preterm birth, or unexplained bleeding, it's important to consult your OB.