Towards the end of the third trimester you start to think ahead and prepare for a safe delivery. You may feel less comfortable during this period as the foetus grows from about 1.5 kg to its birth weight of about 2.75 kgs to 4 kgs. As the uterus grows larger pushing up the diaphragm you will feel uncomfortable.

Because of body changes, you will have trouble getting around, exercising and sleeping comfortably and you will may get tired easily.

INDIGESTION :

During this period indigestion is a common problem due to food and acids getting back into the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth, stomach and food pipe). This may be due to relaxation of the muscles between the stomach and the esophagus or due to the enlarging uterus pressing on the stomach and esophagus. Signs of indigestion are - discomfort, fullness, burning in your upper abdomen, nausea and bloating. To avoid indigestion eat several small meals at frequent intervals.

Avoid foods that cause gas (or irritate your stomach like spicy foods, citrus fruits).
Do not lie down for at least an hour after you eat and do not exercise for at least two hours after you eat.

CONSTIPATION :

Is severe during the last trimester, when the enlarged uterus puts pressure on the rectum, making it difficult to pass stools.

To avoid constipation - eat a high fibre diet and drink plenty of liquids. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables throughout the day. If you have severe constipation (haemorrhoids) piles consult your doctor. Do not take any self medication.

SWOLLEN ANKLES AND FEET :

You may retain fluid towards the end of pregnancy and as a result the ankles may be swollen.

Precaution : If the legs and ankles are swollen, consult your doctor and confirm that it is not due to pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH).

Report to your doctor if there is any other epigastric pain or headache. In the ninth month you may feel mild cramps in the abdomen (i.e. Braxton Hicks contractions lasting from 30 sec's to 2 Mts.). They should not be mistaken for labour pains.

Continuous exercising (walking for 30 Mts. at a time) will help you to have an easy vaginal delivery. Continue your pelvic floor exercises.

Do not forget to take at least 1200 mg of calcium every day as the bones of your foetus are hardening as they absorb calcium from your body. The foetus moves into a position for birth - head down with arms and legs curled up. At the same time your breasts may have a small amount of fluid discharge ( i.e in prepartion for breast feeding).

TOWARDS TERM :

Report to your doctor if there is any excessive watery discharge, frequent urination or blood stained discharge. After food lie down and concentrate on your foetus and note if the movements of the foetus are normal. If you think the movements are less than normal - consult your doctor.

Report to the hospital which you and your doctor have decided previously once any of the above signs and symptoms occur or if the labour pains start. Take food only after your doctor examines you and allows you to drink and eat.