Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Weeks 28-40: The final stretch! Preparing for labor, delivery, and meeting your baby.
What to Expect
- •Baby grows rapidly and gains weight
- •Increased fatigue and discomfort
- •Braxton Hicks contractions
- •Preparing for labor and delivery
- •Nesting instinct kicks in
Key Milestones
- •Week 28: Welcome to third trimester!
- •Week 32: Weekly prenatal visits begin
- •Week 36: Group B strep test
- •Week 37: Baby is full term!
- •Week 40: Your due date arrives
🛍️ Must-Haves for Trimester 3
Comfort and preparation products other expecting parents find helpful at this stage. These are convenience picks, not medical advice — always follow your provider's guidance.
Full-Body Pregnancy Pillow
U-shaped support for side-sleeping that helps take pressure off hips and back.
Check Price on Amazon →Hospital Bag Robe & Slippers
Cozy robe, socks and slippers to make your hospital stay feel more like home.
Check Price on Amazon →Nursing & Maternity Bras
Soft, stretchy wireless bras sized for changing curves and easy feeding later.
Check Price on Amazon →Newborn Diapers & Wipes
Stock the essentials early so you are not running out in those first busy weeks.
Check Price on Amazon →Amazon Associates Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. These recommendations are editorially chosen comfort and preparation products and are not medical advice.
Common Third Trimester Symptoms
Shortness of Breath
Baby pressing on diaphragm
Heartburn
Acid reflux and indigestion
Trouble Sleeping
Difficulty finding comfortable position
Swelling
Swollen feet, ankles, and hands
Braxton Hicks
Practice contractions
Frequent Urination
Baby pressing on bladder
Third Trimester Nutrition
Focus on:
- Continue eating a balanced, nutritious diet
- Eat small, frequent meals to avoid heartburn
- Stay hydrated to prevent swelling and constipation
- Foods rich in vitamin K for blood clotting
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating
Preparing for labor: Some women eat dates in the final weeks as studies suggest they may help with cervical ripening and labor progression. Always consult your healthcare provider before making dietary changes.
Preparing for Labor & Delivery
What to Pack
- • Hospital paperwork and ID
- • Comfortable clothes
- • Toiletries
- • Baby outfit and car seat
- • Phone charger
Signs of Labor
- • Regular contractions
- • Water breaking
- • Bloody show
- • Lower back pain
- • Baby dropping
Browse Third Trimester Week by Week
Third Trimester Resources
Hospital Bag Checklist
Everything you need to pack for delivery
Birth Plan Builder
Create your personalized birth plan
Labor Preparation
Get ready for labor and delivery
Braxton Hicks vs. Real Labor
Know the difference between contractions
Third Trimester Nutrition
Foods for the final stretch
Third Trimester Symptoms
Managing late pregnancy discomforts
Stages of Labor
What to expect during delivery
Newborn Essentials
What baby needs in the first weeks
Breastfeeding Basics
Get prepared before baby arrives
Explore All Trimesters
Almost There!
Track your final weeks and prepare for your baby's arrival