3rd Trimester – Changes in the Baby

The baby is still growing and moving, but now it has less room in your spouse’s uterus. Because of this, she might not feel the kicks and movements as much as she did in the second trimester. During this final stage of pregnancy, the baby is continuing to grow. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, even before your baby is born it will be able to open and close its eyes and might even suck its thumb.

As your spouse’s body prepares for birth, the baby will start to move into its birth position. You might notice the baby “dropping,” or moving down lower in her abdomen. This can reduce the pressure on your spouse’s lungs and rib cage, making it easier for her to breathe.

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, at birth, the average baby is 20 to 22 inches long and weighs 7 1/2 pounds. But newborns who weigh between 5 pounds, 11 1/2 ounces and 8 pounds, 5 3/4 ounces are considered healthy.

Also See:

• Changes in your spouse’s body


• Sleeping in the 3rd Trimester


• Doctors Visits


• Inducing Labor


• Deciding to Breastfeed or Bottle-Feed


• When to Call Your Doctor