What To Expect During Your Third Trimester

The third trimester marks the home stretch as you prepare to welcome your baby into this world. We know that you may have questions and concerns, and we will be here to provide you with care, support, and expertise every step of the way.

The third trimester is from week 27 to the end of your pregnancy. During this time, your baby will continue to grow in size and weight. It is normal if you start to feel a bit more uncomfortable as you continue to gain weight. You may begin to have false labor contractions, called Braxton Hicks contractions. These contractions last around 30 seconds, are irregular, and not painful. Remember that this is not a sign that labor has begun.

During this final trimester, your baby’s bones are fully formed, and their organs are capable of functioning on their own. As you near your due date, their body should turn to a head-down position for birth.

You will have the following visits during your third trimester:

• 30 to 34 weeks: Your provider and care team will prepare you for having your baby at the hospital, explain terms like “rooming in” and “skin-to-skin”, and share breastfeeding resources. Contraception options for after the baby is born will be discussed. If you are considering postpartum sterilization, this is the time to fill out a consent form. Education on “kick counts” will be given, as well as how to recognize preterm labor signs and what to do if you experience them.
• 36 weeks: Your provider may perform a pelvic exam to confirm the position of your baby. A group B strep test will also be done at this visit. Please bring your completed birth plan from your MyChart account to discuss with your provider, including pain management for labor and after delivery, the postpartum period, and mood changes.
• 38 weeks: Your provider will discuss potential indications for C-section and operative delivery. A cervical check will be performed if indicated.
• 39 to 40 weeks: Your provider will perform a cervical check. They will also review signs of labor and what to expect if you pass your expected due date.

Here is a checklist for some third-trimester considerations:

• Discuss your birth preferences with your provider and create a birth plan that considers pain management, delivery positions, and any special requests you may have. You can do this directly in your MyChart account.
• Take a tour of the hospital or birthing center where you plan to deliver. Learn more about our birthing centers.
• Purchase or gather all the necessary items you need for your baby’s arrival, including clothing, diapers, feeding supplies, and a safe car seat. Learn more about car seat safety in Southeast Michigan and in West and Southwest Michigan.
• Talk to your employer about maternity leave plans, and make any necessary arrangements with your workplace.
• Bring any necessary paperwork from your employer, such as Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) forms, to your appointments. Your provider will assist you in completing the required documentation.
• Prepare a hospital bag with essentials for your hospital stay, including comfortable clothes, toiletries, nursing bras, snacks, and items for your baby, like clothes, diapers, and a receiving blanket.
• If you plan to breastfeed, consider attending a breastfeeding class or seek information and support from one of our lactation consultants. Find breastfeeding classes in Southeast Michigan and in West and Southwest Michigan.
• If you plan to bottle-feed, make sure you have the necessary supplies and formula on hand.
• Enroll in our childbirth classes to learn about labor, breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, and infant care. Find childbirth classes in Southeast Michigan and in West and Southwest Michigan.
• Register for our pelvic floor and core during pregnancy class.
• Explore and educate yourself about post-delivery administration, such as birth certificates, social security numbers, and health insurance enrollment for your newborn.
• Consider if you notice any extreme feelings of guilt or hopelessness, which can occur before, during, or after the birth of your child, and reach out for help.

Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it’s important to discuss any specific concerns or questions that you may have during the third trimester with your provider.

You may have many questions about this final trimester of your pregnancy. We are committed to providing you with comprehensive answers and resources to make you feel as confident and comfortable as possible. 

• How can I tell the difference between actual labor and Braxton Hicks contractions?
• Can you walk me through what my delivery and labor experience may look like?
• Is it safe to deliver after my due date? How long after my due date can I go?
• Is a C-section or vaginal birth better or safer?
• Can I get an epidural? At which point during labor can I get one and at which point is it too late? Is it painful to administer?
• Who can be in the room with me during delivery?
• How long will we be in the hospital?
• How can I ensure that my birth place is being followed?