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Third-Trimester Prenatal Visits: What to Expect and How to Prepare

24 Jan 2025
Third-Trimester Prenatal Visits What to Expect and How to Prepare

The Third Trimester: A Time of Excitement and Preparation

As you approach the finish line of pregnancy, third-trimester prenatal visits become a cornerstone of your care. These appointments are designed to monitor your health and ensure your baby’s safe arrival into the world. Let’s dive into what you can expect during these visits and how to make the most of them.

Why Are Third-Trimester Visits So Important?

The third trimester, spanning weeks 28 through 40, is a crucial time for both you and your baby. Your doctor or midwife will use these visits to:
  • Monitor your baby’s growth: Checking the baby’s position, size, and heartbeat.
  • Track your health: Keeping an eye on your blood pressure, weight, and potential signs of complications like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.
  • Prepare for labor: Discussing your birth plan and helping you recognize the signs of labor.

What Happens During Each Visit?

Here’s a breakdown of what typically happens at your third-trimester appointments:

Weeks 28–36: Biweekly Checkups

  • Vitals: Blood pressure and weight checks to monitor for any sudden changes.
  • Fundal height measurements: Your provider will measure your belly to ensure your baby is growing at a healthy rate.
  • Baby’s heartbeat: Using a Doppler, they’ll check your little one’s heartbeat, a sound that never fails to amaze.
  • Glucose test (if not already done): This screening ensures you don’t have gestational diabetes.

Weeks 36–40: Weekly Visits

  • Baby’s position: Your provider will check if your baby is head-down, as this is ideal for delivery.
  • Cervical checks: To see if your body is preparing for labor, your cervix might be checked for dilation and effacement.
  • Group B strep test: Around week 36, a simple swab test will determine if you carry this bacteria, which can affect delivery plans.
  • Labor discussion: Your doctor or midwife will provide guidance on when to call or head to the hospital.

Common Third-Trimester Tests

  • Ultrasound (if needed): Often used to check your baby’s position or estimate their weight.
  • Non-Stress Test (NST): If you’re past your due date or have a high-risk pregnancy, this test ensures your baby is doing well.
  • Biophysical Profile (BPP): Combines ultrasound and NST for more detailed monitoring in certain cases.

How to Prepare for Your Appointments

span>Maximize the benefits of your visits by coming prepared:
  • Keep a list of questions: This is your time to ask about anything—hospital bag packing, labor pain relief, or postpartum recovery.
  • Note any symptoms: Swelling, headaches, or reduced fetal movement are important to mention.
  • Stay organized: Bring your insurance information, a copy of your birth plan, and a notebook for notes.

Key Questions to Ask Your Provider

  1. What should I do if I think I’m in labor?
  2. How can I differentiate between Braxton Hicks and true contractions?
  3. Are there any activities I should avoid in the coming weeks?
  4. What happens if I go past my due date?
  5. What should I include in my hospital bag?

Encouragement for the Final Stretch

The third trimester can feel long, but each appointment brings you closer to meeting your baby. By staying informed and engaged, you’re setting the stage for a healthy delivery and a smooth transition to parenthood. You’ve got this, and your care team is here to support you every step of the way.

 

Content Reviewed by Dr V. profile picture

Content Reviewed by Dr V.

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Dr. Vaheh Shirvanian, a family medicine physician and father. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in inpatient acute hospital care, outpatient family medicine, urgent care, emergency medicine, and hospice care. Dr. V is passionate about guiding new parents through the challenges and joys of parenthood, offering compassionate and expert support at every step.

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