The 3rd trimester, the home stretch, is where the action really begins in the pregnancy. The baby is moving around and the urge to run to the restroom starts since the baby is pressing on the bladder. Exercise is still important and prenatal vitamins to prevent anemia. No diets at all right now, the baby’s nutrient demands are going to be high for the next three months as he or she starts to grow and put on weight. Sleep is uncomfortable but laying on the left side helps to prevent the baby’s weight from cutting off the blood flow. The 3rd trimester covers the weeks 29 through 42 of the pregnancy.

On or around week 42 of the 3rd trimester it is giving birth time. Your doctor will give you an estimated delivery date two or three weeks out, so it is time to get a bag for the hospital packed and everything ready to go for the big moment. Giving birth has three stages. Stage 1 is the early labor when contractions start and the cervix begins to dilate. Later on, the active labor begins and you are recommended to get to the hospital. During Stage 2, the pushing of the baby to be born begins and the baby comes. Stage 3 is the delivery of the placenta and happens from five to 30 minutes after giving birth.