Adapting to Pregnancy: Third Trimester

Limiting leg problems

Ways to ease leg problems:

• Wear compression socks all day.

• Don't wear snug shoes or clothes that bind, such as tight pants and socks with elastic tops.

• Whenever possible, sit with your feet and legs raised.

Caring for your breasts

Here are some tips that can help:

• Wash your breasts with mild body soap and warm water. Dry with a clean towel.

• Wear a nursing bra for extra support. It can also hide any leaks from your nipples.

Controlling hemorrhoids

Ways to prevent hemorrhoids include:

• Eating foods that are high in fiber. Also exercise and drink enough fluids. This will reduce constipation and hemorrhoids.

• Sleeping and napping on your side. This limits pressure on the veins of your rectum (lower part of your bowel).

• Trying not to stand or sit for long periods.

Controlling back pain

As your body changes during pregnancy, your back must work in new ways. Back pain has many causes. Physical changes in your body can strain your back and its supporting muscles. This can affect how your muscles and joints work together. All of these changes can lead to pain.

Pain may be felt in the upper or lower back. Pain is also common in the pelvis. Some pregnant women have sciatica. This is pain caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve, which runs down the back of the leg. Ice or heat may help. Your provider may advise massage therapy or a chiropractor. Sleep on your left side with a pillow between your knees. Ask your provider for tips and exercises to help control your back pain.

Tips to help you rest

Good rest and sleep will help you feel better. Here are some ideas:

• Massage your shoulders, neck, or back.

• Limit the errands you do each day.

• Lie down in the afternoon or after work for a few minutes.

• Take a warm bath before you go to sleep.

• Drink warm milk or teas without caffeine.

• Don't drink coffee, black tea, and caffeinated soft drinks.

Stopping heartburn

• Don't eat spicy, greasy, fried, or acidic foods.

• Eat small amounts more often. Eat slowly.

• Wait 2 hours after eating before lying down.

• Sleep with your upper body raised 6 inches.

Managing mood swings

Ways to manage mood swings include:

• Knowing that mood changes are normal.

• Exercising often, but also getting plenty of rest.

• Limiting stress. Talk to your doctor about ways to manage stress.

Dealing with urinary frequency

Here are some tips if you have to urinate often:

• Drink plenty of water all day. You may want to limit water before bedtime so you don't have to get up more at night.

• Limit coffee, black tea, and caffeinated soft drinks.

How daily issues affect your health

Many things in your daily life affect your health. These can include transportation, money problems, housing, access to food, and child care. If you can’t get to medical appointments, you may not receive the care you need. When money is tight, it may be difficult to pay for medicines. And living far from a grocery store can make it hard to buy healthy food.

If you have concerns in any of these or other areas, talk with your care team. They may know of local resources to assist you.