You have now entered the third and last trimester of pregnancy. Congratulations for having successfully come this far where soon you will get to hold your baby in your hands.
How Big is Your Baby?
The baby has been putting on many layers of fat and thus it now weighs 1.5 to 2.5 pounds and measures 13.6 to 14.8 inches.
Growth and development of baby
The baby has started to develop more fat on the body because of which the wrinkly skin will now start to become smoother. Its lungs are fully mature now.
Mother's Development
Changes You Experience
The mother has gained about 22 pounds by now, and therefore looks quite huge. The uterus rises to about 9 cm above the navel by this week. Women are constantly troubled by constipation, haemorrhoids and leg cramps during this time. Backaches are also common.
As a result of so many troubles, most women are not able to have proper sleep. They even suffer from restless leg syndrome. There is unpleasant sensation in the lower legs which urges you to move them while resting, like sleeping for instance. This symptom only exists for a few days and is common among expecting mothers.
Complications
By now, the results of gestational diabetes test must have come in. If you are tested positive, you will have to take a glucose tolerance diet. Also, you will have to stick to the strict diet plan prescribed to you by your doctor.
You must get the Rh factor test conducted to determine whether the Rh factor of you and your baby is compatible. In case, it is not, it may lead to complications in the future pregnancies. Just to be safe, you must get Rh immunoglobulin shot if the Rh factor is different.
If you suddenly notice changes such as excessive weight gain, sudden swelling of face and hands, nausea, vision change or constant headache, you may be a victim of pre-eclampsia. The disorder is rare and must be treated immediately.
Diet
Include lot of fluids in your diet to steer clear of haemorrhoids and constipation. Also include green leafy vegetables, milk and a variety of grains to ensure that all the nutrients are maintained at an optimum level. Caffeine is a strict no-no at this stage, as it could increase the chances of preterm labor.
Calculate Your Due Date ?