It’s the final countdown! You’ve reached the third trimester and you’ll be meeting your baby soon (!). But before delivery day arrives, you and your growing little one still have some new pregnancy milestones to meet, and with that, some not-so-pleasant pregnancy symptoms.
“Some of the same symptoms are present in both the second and third trimesters,” says Kecia Gaither, M.D., M.P.H, F.A.C.O.G., a double board-certified physician in OB/GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine, who serves as the Director of Perinatal Services at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln in the Bronx in New York City.
These pregnancy symptoms include things like stretch marks that appear on your abdomen, buttocks or breasts; nasal issues like increased stuffiness or nosebleeds; swelling; varicose veins; and Braxton Hicks contractions. Fatigue may also rear its ugly head again, particularly because of sleep disturbances caused by an enlarged belly, says Dr. Gaither. Other common pregnancy symptoms during the final trimester include heartburn, backaches, frequent urination and shortness of breath.
The good news? There are some helpful products that can alleviate those not-so-fun parts of the third trimester.
What kinds of products do you need during the third trimester?
Chances are you’ve probably already stocked up on many essentials during your first and second trimesters, but there may still be a few lingering items that can help keep you comfortable during these final weeks.
Add comfortable clothing you can wear now and throughout the fourth trimester (a flowy dress and a nursing bra, for example), plus other comfort-makers, like compression tights or socks, a humidifier and a supportive belly band. These products may seem simple, but can offer a world of difference.
How we chose the best third trimester pregnancy must-haves
We did the heavy lifting for you and developed a comprehensive shopping list for the third trimester. We started by scouring the What to Expect community for real moms’ third trimester must-haves to see which items were the most popular for a variety of parents. We then talked with Dr. Gaither to see what her pregnant patients use and love and consulted expert resources from accredited organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Mayo Clinic. Finally, we narrowed down our picks to the top-reviewed and best-rated items to help you stay comfy and prepare for baby’s arrival.
Below, check out the pregnancy must-haves you’ll want to keep on hand during the third trimester.