Third Trimester Guide

The final stretch. During the third trimester, you prepare physically and mentally for labor, while your baby packs on fat and completes critical organ maturation.

Finishing Touches

Baby's Final Milestones

Your baby reaches significant weight goals now, gaining about 200–250g per week. Lungs are producing surfactant (essential for breathing outside the womb), bones are fully formed but remain soft and flexible, and immune antibodies transfer from you to your baby.

By Week 36, most babies descend lower into the pelvis, turning head-down in preparation for birth.

Milestone Highlights

Week 28: Eyelashes complete. Weight passes 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs).
Week 32: Plump, opaque skin. Fingernails reach tips.
Week 36: Lightening: baby drops down into the pelvis.
Week 39-40: Full-term milestone. Baby is ready for birth.

Late Pregnancy Changes

The physical weight of the baby puts pressure on your diaphragm, hips, and bladder. Insomnia and practice contractions are very common:

⚡ Braxton Hicks (Practice contractions) 💧 Leaking Colostrum (Early milk) 🚽 Return of Urinary Frequency 🎒 Nesting Instinct Spikes

Clinical Guidance & Care

Daily Kick Counts: Start daily tracking around Week 28. Look for 10 movements in under 2 hours.
Group B Strep (GBS): Swab test performed between Week 35 and 37 to protect baby during delivery.
Watch for Preeclampsia: Monitor for sudden facial swelling, severe headaches, or vision changes.
Know the Signs of Labor: Contractions getting stronger/closer, water breaking, or losing mucus plug.

Last reviewed by medical team: June 2026

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