When you enter the 26th week of your pregnancy, you step into your third trimester. You are heavily pregnant now and you tend to feel scared when you notice abnormal changes in your body. Don’t worry; this article will help you understand what to expect when you are 26 to 40 weeks pregnant and how to prepare for the same.
Weeks 26 to 30
This phase signifies your baby’s physical and brain development. Your baby starts looking like a new born in this stage.
His lungs are developing rapidly.
Be prepared for lots of stretching and kicking movements, because your baby is feeling cramped inside your womb.
Tips for this phase
- Including DHA and AA, two of the most significant LCPs in your diet might help to contribute to your baby’s brain and visual development.
- Be prepared for heartburns. Pay attention to your diet to not include foods which will accelerate your heartburns. Consult your doctor for the same.
- Have your meals on time for proper digestion.
- Test yourself for gestational diabetes because if it is not treated, it will lead to complications at the time of birth.
- Please note to include vitamin K, vitamin C, calcium and iron in your diet which is important for blood clotting.
Weeks 31 to 34
Your baby is very active. His eye colour starts to form in this stage. He already has the ability to open and close his eyes. He has no more room in your womb to move about, so he curls up his knees and crosses his legs. His weight increases rapidly.
You might experience Braxton Hicks at around week 33.
Tips for this phase
- Vitamin D rich diet can help in your baby’s bone development.
- Keep maintaining a healthy diet even if you experience a loss in appetite because you and your baby still need nutrition for good health.
Weeks 35 to 40
Your baby is developing rapidly and your baby’s lungs are fully developed for breathing. His head is close to your pelvis at this stage. By week 37, your baby is considered to be ready to say hello to the outside world. This does not mean his immune system is developed. It will continue to develop after his birth.
Tips for this phase
- Including more of fibre diet can help you to avoid constipation which you might experience in this stage.
- You might notice small drops of colostrum- the nutritious first milk around your breasts as your due date nears.
- Keep hydrating yourself even if the urge to urinate increases in this period.
- Be prepared for labour pains anytime by keeping your hospital bag with all the essentials ready!
- Don’t ignore your light exercises ,breathing sessions and fluid intake in your diet.
- Get an idea about your breastfeeding diet from your doctor which will help you and your baby after his birth.
