Care during the third trimester

The skin requires special attention during the third trimester as it is the stage of pregnancy when it can suffer the most. It is advisable to have it well hydrated and to use anti-stretch mark creams to try to avoid its appearance. Sun exposure should be limited and high protection factors applied to avoid stains that may appear. Body hygiene should be maintained with one or two showers a day since sweating increases during pregnancy.

To prepare the muscles of the perineum for childbirth and to avoid episiotomy, it is advisable to do a daily massage with almond or rosehip oil. Thus, a greater elasticity of the perineum is achieved.

Back pain is more common during late pregnancy. Good postural hygiene helps reduce them. The column must support the least possible load. To lift objects, the pregnant woman must bend over bending her knees and keeping her back straight. If you have to sit for a long time, you should avoid always being in the same position and moving frequently to loosen up. The back should lie straight on the back and with the legs at a right angle.

During the end of pregnancy, the calcium needs of the fetus increase, so the intake of milk and derivatives such as cheese should be increased, yogurts in case of excessive weight gain, semi-skimmed or skimmed products can be consumed.

Physical exercise begins to be limited by the discomfort and limitations of the volume of the belly, the most appropriate may be walking and yoga exercises. Swimming is recommended until the last month of pregnancy. A good balance must be found between rest and physical activity.

Sexual relations can be maintained until the doctor contraindicates it, always seeking the most comfortable positions for the woman. Neither intercourse nor orgasm are harmful to the fetus, but if the cervix is ​​dilated or the mucous plug is lost, they are not recommended.

There is no problem for following the usual work activity in the third trimester but always keeping in mind several limitations. Working days of more than five hours on your feet can increase the risk of preterm labor. Working days of more than eight hours a day lead to a decrease in birth weight. Jobs with greater mental stress present a greater risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension.

The professionals who work shifts at night also have a higher risk of the threat of premature labor and low birth weight.