Third trimester week by week

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Weeks 27-30

You: You might notice that your bump tightens around now - these are Braxton Hicks contractions, which tone your uterus for labour.
As your ever-expanding uterus presses against your stomach, you may experience heartburn, so eating little but often, and sleeping propped up with pillows, will help.
Your bump: Her eyes are open and she can suck her thumb. She has eyebrows, eyelashes and is sensitive to light, sound and smell.
Top tip: Finding it hard to sleep with your growing bump? Invest in a pregnancy wedge pillow.

Weeks 31-34

You: Your uterus is around 500 times bigger than its pre-pregnancy size!
Braxton Hicks contractions intensify and can take your breath away. If you suddenly develop a severe headache or feel very sick, call your midwife. You're at risk of pre-eclampsia now, so be sure to attend all antenatal appointments.
Your bump: Fat deposits under her skin conceal the blood vessels that were visible until now. Loose skin on her face fills out, so no more wrinkles! Her fingernails are at the end of her fingers and growing, so may need cutting soon after birth.
Top tip: As your baby's bones continue to harden, make sure you get plenty of calcium.

Weeks 35-38

You: Have you written your birth plan? If not, do it now! But remember, things often don't go to plan, so although it's great to convey the kind of birth you want, don't be too disappointed if it doesn't happen the way you want it to.
Your bump: Your baby will start to move into your pelvis around now, and is almost ready to go. She's getting a good supply of antibodies from you via the placenta, and most of the lanugo has disappeared. But hair on her head might be up to 5cm long.
Top tip: Pack your hospital bag. Include toiletries, nappies, clothes for you and the baby, maternity and breast pads and a nursing bra. Even if you plan to give birth at home, it's a good idea to have this stuff prepared in case you have to transfer.

Weeks 39-42

You: On your marks... get set... give birth!
Many babies are overdue by up to two weeks. Still, you'll go into labour any day now. Signs to look out for are a 'show' (a bloody, gel-like substance in your knickers), waters breaking or contractions that increase in strength and frequency.
Your bump: The position your baby is lying in now is important, because she'll probably stay like this right through to birth, as space is too tight for somersaulting! If she's breech, you may be advised to consider a Caesarean.
Top tip: Try to relax and rest as much as possible in the days leading up to the birth - you're going to need your strength!

- Now find out about the birth and beyond

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