When is the third trimester of pregnancy?
The third trimester is the last stage of pregnancy, usually starting from the 28th week of pregnancy until the end of delivery. This stage is the period of rapid fetal development and the most obvious changes in the mother's body. It is also a critical period when expectant mothers need to pay special attention to their own health and the condition of the fetus. Below we will introduce the relevant content of the third trimester of pregnancy in detail from many aspects.
1. Time division of the third trimester of pregnancy

The time division of the third trimester of pregnancy is as shown in the table below:
| stage | time range | Main features |
|---|---|---|
| late pregnancy | Week 28 to delivery | The rapid development of the fetus increases the burden on the pregnant woman's body |
2. Physical changes in late pregnancy
In the third trimester of pregnancy, a pregnant woman's body will undergo a series of obvious changes, including:
| Change type | Specific performance | Response suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| weight gain | Gain about 0.5kg per week | Properly control your diet to avoid excessive weight gain |
| enlargement of uterus | The height of the fundus of the uterus reaches below the xiphoid process | Take breaks and avoid standing for long periods of time |
| low back pain | Caused by shifting the center of gravity forward | Use a pregnancy pillow to maintain correct posture |
| difficulty breathing | Uterus compresses diaphragm | Take a semi-recumbent position and practice deep breathing |
3. Fetal development in late pregnancy
The third trimester of pregnancy is a critical period of fetal development, when various organ systems gradually mature:
| Gestational age | developmental milestones | average weight |
|---|---|---|
| 28-32 weeks | The lungs begin to produce surfactant | 1.5-2kg |
| 33-36 weeks | Subcutaneous fat accumulates and skin becomes smooth | 2-2.7kg |
| 37-40 weeks | All organs are fully mature and ready for delivery | 2.7-3.5kg |
4. Precautions in the third trimester of pregnancy
To ensure the health of mother and baby, special attention needs to be paid to the following during late pregnancy:
| Things to note | Specific content | importance |
|---|---|---|
| Regular prenatal check-ups | Every 2 weeks, once a week after 36 weeks | high |
| fetal movement monitoring | Record fetal movements at a fixed time every day | high |
| diet nutrition | Increase protein, iron, and calcium intake | in |
| moderate exercise | Walking, pregnancy yoga, etc. | in |
| psychological adjustment | Relieve prenatal anxiety | high |
5. Frequently Asked Questions in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Some common problems that may occur during the third trimester of pregnancy require attention:
| question | Symptoms | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|
| gestational hypertension | Elevated blood pressure, proteinuria | Seek medical attention promptly and rest in bed |
| gestational diabetes | elevated blood sugar | Control diet and monitor blood sugar |
| signs of premature labor | Regular contractions and redness | seek medical attention immediately |
| placenta previa | painless vaginal bleeding | Absolute bed rest, cesarean section if necessary |
6. Preparation for the third trimester of pregnancy
As delivery approaches, you need to make the following preparations:
| Preparations | completion time | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Preparing for delivery | 36 weeks ago | Includes maternity and newborn products |
| birth plan | 37 weeks ago | Discuss delivery options with your doctor |
| hospital route | anytime | Familiar with emergency access |
| postpartum arrangements | 38 weeks ago | Confinement nanny or family care plan |
7. Nutritional advice in late pregnancy
Nutritional needs change during the third trimester of pregnancy and the following are recommended:
| Nutrients | daily requirement | food source |
|---|---|---|
| protein | 75-100g | Lean meat, fish, eggs, soy products |
| iron | 27 mg | Red meat, liver, spinach |
| Calcium | 1000 mg | milk, cheese, sesame seeds |
| DHA | 200 mg | Deep sea fish, algae |
The third trimester of pregnancy is a critical period for welcoming a new life, and expectant mothers need to pay special attention to their own health and that of their fetus. Through regular prenatal check-ups, a reasonable diet, moderate exercise and adequate rest, a good foundation can be laid for a smooth delivery. If any abnormality is discovered, seek medical consultation promptly to ensure the safety of mother and baby.
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