Third trimester of pregnancy

The third trimester of pregnancy lasts from week 25 to delivery. During this time, many of the discomforts from the second trimester may remain. As the result of a growing fetus placing additional pressure on the maternal organs, existing conditions may worsen and new conditions may develop. In addition, the fetus’s size and position may make it difficult for a woman to get comfortable. Most of these conditions, however, disappear or lessen after delivery. Common changes and symptoms of the second trimester include:
- Expanding abdomen. The uterus is continuing to enlarge. By the 36th week of pregnancy, the uterus extends to the lower edge of the rib cage. The expanding abdomen often causes the naval to bulge.

- Changes in nail condition. During pregnancy, hormones can cause nails to grow faster and become stronger. In some women, however, the nails may become more prone to breakage and splitting. These changes usually disappear after delivery.

- Heartburn and indigestion. Heartburn and indigestion are common during pregnancy, even for those who have never experienced these conditions before. Although they can occur at any time during pregnancy, they typically occur during the third trimester. As the fetus grows, it causes the uterus to push on the stomach. This can result in acid reflux (backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus) and heartburn, particularly after a meal.

- Leaking breasts. As the breasts continue to prepare for breastfeeding, an expectant mother may begin to leak colostrum (a type of milk) in the third trimester. Colostrum is an early rich precursor to the normal breast milk that the body produces. Women with leaking breasts may benefit from placing disposable or cloth nursing pads in their bras.