$Unique_ID{PAR00429}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Pregnancy:  The Third Trimester:  Introduction}
$Subtitle{}
$Author{
Editors of Consumer Guide
Ellis, Jeffrey W
Ellis, Maria}
$Subject{Third Trimester Introduction Introductions tiring prepare
preparations labor delivery}
$Log{}

Miracle of Birth


The Third Trimester:  Introduction


     As you enter your last three months of pregnancy, you may find yourself
thinking more and more about the upcoming birth.  Your large size and your
baby's movements are constant reminders that you will become a mother soon.
     You may find yourself wanting to slow down a bit, preferring quiet
evenings at home, leisurely walks, midday rest breaks, and a generally slower
pace to life.  The 24-hour-a-day job of making a baby--a job that is nearing
completion--becomes tiring in this third trimester.
     As your developing baby continues to add weight and strength, you'll want
to continue to eat properly, exercise regularly, avoid any possible hazards,
and rest up for the work of labor and delivery.  Your large size may make many
of your usual tasks more difficult and may make getting comfortable seem
nearly impossible.  But with a little patience and care and a little extra
support from those around you, you'll get through your final trimester with
flying colors.
     As your delivery date draws near, you'll also need to prepare for the
arrival of your new baby.  You'll need to make room for baby in your home and
in your budget.  And you'll need to finalize your preparations for labor and
delivery.
     In the following sections, you'll find discussions of the changes
occurring in your baby and in your body in preparation for birth.  You'll find
strategies for day-to-day living that take into account your changing size and
shape.  And you'll find practical information about preparing for the big
event that's soon to occur.