Third Trimester

During your third trimester (27th to 40th week), your baby's eyes open and its hair gets longer. By now, your baby should be very active. The baby will feel high up in your abdomen as the baby grows larger. Toward the end of the trimester, the baby may feel lower in your pelvic area, which may make it easier to breathe, but you may feel like you have to go to the bathroom to urinate more often. At night, you may find it difficult to sleep because of the baby's movements and position. Extra pillows may make you more comfortable.

Sleeping or lying on your back may produce feelings of faintness and shortness of breath. It is best to rest on your side, particularly toward the end of your pregnancy. Your ankles may become swollen. Rest with your feet raised and do not cross your legs at the knee. You will continue to gain weight.

Nutrition and Exercise

• Try to have a caloric intake of 2500 calories per day
• You may need to resume small frequent meals to prevent heartburn
• Take prenatal vitamins if prescribed
• Avoid using alcohol and tobacco
• Drink 10-12 cups of liquid daily
• Further modify your exercise regimen as needed to protect muscles and joints
• Shortness of breath is common on exertion. You may need to reduce the intensity of your exercise regimen if you are becoming too winded
• Stretch and tone to prepare for childbirth