As your pregnancy approaches the end there are still a few more symptom plagued months to go.  Each woman is unique and each pregnancy is unique so it goes without saying that no two pregnancies are exactly alike.  Even with textbook pregnancies there are always a few differences.  Your doctor will likely talk to you about you can expect given your specific situation, prior symptoms, and any special difficulties you may in your pregnancy. 

It is always helpful though to have some idea about what you may be able to expect as your third trimester approaches, or whether the things you are currently experiences are “normal”.  Here are a few of the common complaints of women in their third trimester. 

Braxton Hicks contractions:  These are contractions that are basically your body’s way of warming up for the real thing.  You will notice a tightening of your belly and uterine muscles, designed to get those muscles ready for what will come during real labor.  Typically you will start experiencing Braxton Hicks around the 28th to 30th week of your pregnancy.  If you are concerned about the contractions you are feeling or they appear to increase with frequency and rhythm be sure to call your doctor immediately.

Pain in your back, pelvis, and hips:  As the baby grows and as your body continues to get itself ready for the baby’s delivery you will notice pains in your back, pelvis, and hips.  The growing baby is putting more and more pressure on your back causing an increase in the back pain many women experience throughout pregnancy.  Your pelvic region is changing in preparation of the birth which inevitably causes pain in the hips and pelvis.  Try sleep positions and exercises that help alleviate the pain and discomfort.

Heartburn:  The hormones of pregnancy cause the digestive system to slow down, which results in an increased occurrence of heartburn.  Doctors recommend that you eat several smaller meals throughout the day instead of the typical 3 large meals.  They also recommend that you avoid eating close to bedtime and when you do go to bed that you prop yourself up on pillows as this helps alleviate heartburn.

Difficulty sleeping: As your body grows and changes you will inevitably become more uncomfortable, which certainly won’t help you sleep.  Also, you will find that you have to get up several times a night to use the “little girl’s” room.  Not to mention the baby moving throughout the night since he is not in a normal wake/sleep cycle.  Be sure to get as much sleep as you can.  You may find you need to take little naps during the day to help compensate for the lack of sleep at night.  

Again, these are just a few of the common complaints of women in the third trimester, a few of the things you have to look forward to. 

As with anything during pregnancy, if you are concerned about something you are experiencing talk to your doctor.  If anything is bothering you or seems abnormal be sure to call your doctor so you can be checked out and you can discuss your concerns with your doctor. 

What symptoms and complaints did you have during your third trimester?  Anything in particular that really bothered you?