Third Trimester
(28 weeks to birth)

The final three months of pregnancy are an important time of preparation, when you need to gear yourself up nutritionally, emotionally and physically for the birth of your baby. Plenty of rest can help to alleviate some of the ailments that occur in the third trimester as well as fortifying you for the birth. Good nutrition and appropriate exercise also help.

Nutrition for Mother and Baby
In the third trimester, as is in the last two, there are windows of nutritional opportunity.

Action Plan
At this stage your body is changing to cope with the growing baby and in preparation for labor and breast feeding.

Boost Energy
Your metabolism becomes more efficient during this stage to provide extra nutrients to the baby and to prepare your body for labor. Drink a lot of water, too little will diminish your energy.

Gear Up Mentally
Prepare yourself mentally not just for the birth of your baby but also for the life afterwards as a parent.

Common Problems in the Third Trimester

Sleeplessness/Insomnia
Sleeping difficulties during pregnancy is very common and lead to fatigue during the day.

SYMPTOMS: Difficulty in falling asleep, restlessness and irritation all day long.

DIET & NUTRITION: Vitamin B deficiency can cause insomnia (sleeplessness). If blood sugar levels fall during the night, you may feel hungry or nauseatic. Drink warm milk before going to bed. Leafy green vegetables (vitamin B) have a tranquilizing effect.

KEY TIPS:

Avoid afternoon naps.

Eat sustainable lunch and a light supper.

Relax before bed and avoid mental stimulation.

Raised Blood Pressure
Raised blood pressure affects 5-10 % of women.

SYMPTOMS: Headaches, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances and raised blood pressure.

DIET & NUTRITION: Eat plenty of raw fruits and vegetables which are rich in Vitamin C and potassium.

KEY TIPS:

Eat light food.

Get plenty of rest.

Undertake regular gentle exercises.

Refer to the doctor immediately if a problem occurs.

About the Author: Ms. Rabya Aqeel has previously worked as the Editorial Content Manager with Catco Kids, Inc. She has also worked with the Dawn Group of Newspapers in addition to teaching at the Lahore Grammar School.

References:
Zita West ‘Natural Pregnancy’ – Complementary Therapies for Preconception, Pregnancy & Postnatal Care

“Your Pregnancy Bible” – Consulting Editor, Dr. Anne Deans

“Antenatal Class 1: Minor disorders of pregnancy” prepared by Ms. Mehrunissa Kabani & Ms. Mumtaz Budhwani – Aga Khan University

www.healthlink.uhseast.com

www.netdoctor.co.uk

Sharma, Rekha: Pregnancy and Nutrition. Obstetric and Gynaecology Today. September 1996. 1(3).p.195-199.