We’ve already looked at what you can expect during the first trimester of pregnancy and the second trimester of pregnancy in previous posts, so it’s best now to finish this series on the stages of pregnancy and give you some valuable information that you can use in the future. The team here at our center for IVF in New Jersey will cover some of the basics, so keep in mind that there is much more to note when it comes to those critical final weeks before your expected due date.

First of all, you will probably notice an increase of pain and discomfort in different parts of your body. As your baby gains more and more weight inside you, there will be increased pain in your back, hip, and joints. Sensitivity and swelling in your breasts will continue and persist, and you will also experience contractions just as you did in the second trimester. In addition, since your uterus will expand with the size of your child, it may affect your diaphragm, your breathing, and may even put more pressure on your bladder. Consequently, you may find yourself being short of breath quicker than usual and you may need to urinate more frequently.

As you get closer and closer to your expected due date, you will probably have gained between 20 to 40 pounds, though this will vary depending on a number of different factors. One of these factors includes your body type and size before pregnancy. You will also experience a certain degree of heightened anxiety as the due date approaches, though this is normal as childbirth is a stressful and major moment in your life.

During your third trimester, you may have more frequent trips to your doctor in order to monitor your health and the health of your child. This is normal and quite advisable to make sure that you are healthy as the delivery date approaches. If you experience any severe pain or discomfort or have any concerns, be sure to speak with your doctor right away.

There are many more matters about pregnancy and childbirth to take into account. If you would like to learn more about this and other fertility topics such as New Jersey sperm donation and IVF treatments, we encourage you to contact our New Jersey IVF center for a consultation.