Third Trimester

Almost 90% of pregnant women get stretch marks. You could apply creams, oils and lotions with vitamin E and alpha hydroxy acids to prevent stretch marks. However, there is no guarantee that these will work.

You will continue to go experience constipation, heartburn, indigestion, flatulence and bloating.

As your baby grows, the weight will put a lot of pressure on the uterus and lower abdomen. It's okay if you find your lower abdomen a bit achy and hard. Occasional headaches, faintness and dizziness are also common.

Leukorrhea (white vaginal discharge) may get heavy. Hormonal changes may also cause nasal congestion, occasional nosebleeds and ear blockage. You may also experience bleeding gums.

The increased weight will also cause;

• Leg cramps
  
  
• Backaches
  
  
• Varicose veins
  
  
• Haemorrhoids
  
  
• Shortness of breath
  
  
• Trouble sleeping

You may also feel Braxton Hicks contractions that are usually painless. Here your uterus hardens for a minute and then returns to normal. This is also called false labour.

This is your body's way of preparing for final labour. Colostrum or the first milk may leak from your breasts. Your stomach may change shape as the baby begins to position itself for birth. You will need to urinate more often.

Eat healthy and avoid sweets and fatty foods. Include loads of sprouts, fruits, vegetables, liquids and soups.

Just relax and enjoy your pregnancy.

(With inputs from Dr. Ravindra Narsapur, MD, DGO Bhagwat Hospital, Mumbai)

Author: Vidya Anand
Vidya is a freelance journalist and is expecting her first baby.