You made it! You’re finally in the third trimester. While the third trimester is an exciting time as you prepare to meet your little one, it can also be a physically tough time as your body adjusts to a growing baby. Today, I’m sharing what has (and is currently) working for me in my third trimester.
At 34 weeks pregnant, I’m definitely feeling all of the aches and pains. I’m BEYOND ready to meet our little one, and I’m sure if you’re reading this article you may be feeling the same way! It’ll be here before we know it and in the meantime, here are some tips for surviving the third trimester!
RELATED: Preparing For Second Baby
Tips for surviving the third trimester
Pamper yourself
Pampering yourself is a great way to ease some aches and pains associated with pregnancy. Whether you get your hair done, get a massage, take a bath, or get your nails done, pampering is a must during the third trimester, especially towards the very end. Find time to take care of yourself and you won’t regret it!
Check out this Guide To Self-Care (Mom Edition) for ideas on pampering yourself!
Drink lots of water
Drinking lots of water is essential during the end of pregnancy. Staying hydrated helps reduce swelling, increase your energy, increase your amniotic fluid, and will help you stay cool!
Tired of drinking water? Try staying hydrated with fresh fruit or delicious smoothies!
Walk
Walking is a great way for you to get some moderate activity in. Light exercise is so beneficial for your pregnancy! Some of the benefits of walking include better sleep, relieving back pain, and potential help with labor and delivery.
Take time to do what you love
It’s often assumed that the third trimester should be spent preparing for your little one. While you should be preparing, you should also be taking this time to enjoy some hobbies before the baby arrives. You’ll feel great and it will help pass the time!
Invest in comfortable clothing
Now is the time to embrace those comfortable clothes! Invest in some maternity leggings and loose-fitting shirts. You’ll be so glad you did!
Stay cool
Staying out of the heat will have some great benefits for you during your third trimester. Feel free to stay indoors, go for a swim, or take cool showers! Staying cool will help you reduce swelling and can help prevent dehydration as well.
Listen to your body
This is SO IMPORTANT! You never want to ignore signs that your body is giving you. If you’re tired, try to rest. If you’re stressed, take a bath. If you need a cookie, eat a cookie! If you sense something is off, contact your doctor. Being in tune with your body’s needs is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby.
Eat a well balanced diet
Any time that you’re eating good, nutritious food, you’re going to feel better, too! Eating the right kinds of foods can give you energy and focus. Remember, you’re making a baby and your body needs about 300 extra calories, so don’t deprive yourself. Part of staying balanced with your diet is giving into those pregnancy cravings too!
Embrace Nesting
Nesting is a very normal part of the third trimester. It can also be very relaxing and accomplishing. Embrace the things that need to be done during this time. If you pace yourself, you’ll have plenty of time to accomplish everything you want to.
Spend quality time with your spouse and/or kids
One thing is for sure about a new baby – you’ll have less time on your hands. Take advantage of this time during your pregnancy to spend time with your spouse and children. If you don’t have the funds for a baby-moon, don’t fret. You can enjoy a nice meal together, go to the movies, or just head out for a walk together!
Meal prep
Meal prepping before your baby arrives is a HUGE lifesaver! Freezer meals and keeping your pantry stocked are a must during this time. If you need some meal prepping ideas, here is a list of some of our 30+ Best Easy Meal Prep Recipes.
Along with meal prepping during the third trimester, something that significantly helped me with my first baby was making these 6 Healthy Freezer Meals For New Moms (Or Anyone!) before the baby arrived!
Get comfortable
The third trimester is known for being the MOST uncomfortable time in your life! Do whatever you can to stay comfortable during this time. Kick your feet up to rest, take advantage of using belly bands, and convince your spouse to let you have the bed to yourself! You deserve it!
Ask for help
You should never feel like you have to tackle everything yourself during this time! The people who love you would love to help you out. Be sure to make your needs known to those who love you the most during this time!
Give yourself grace
Pregnancy is different for every single mother. Your pregnancy is uniquely yours. What works for someone else’s pregnancy might not work for you, and that’s ok. Just remember to be easy on yourself and breathe. Your little one will be here before you know it!
Deborah Brooks says:
Hope you enjoy this special time in your life. And yes take the time to pamper yourself and spend time with your husband while you can
Farrah says:
Hang in there–you’re almost there! These are all really great tips — having a well-balanced diet, comfortable clothing + hydration are definitely things I recommend to my patients! :]