10 Things Not to Do in Your Third Trimester of Pregnancy
- by WONDERMOM
- May 30, 2022
- Maintaining the Wrong Sleeping Position
The abdomen expands quite a bit and the uterus moves up slightly to provide more space in the third trimester of pregnancy. In general, expectant mothers are advised not to sleep on their backs, as the baby weighs significantly more in the third trimester. It can restrict blood flow to the uterus and fetus and make your symptoms worse. Even if you are comfortable sleeping on your back, remember that it is better to avoid it.Instead, experts recommend sleeping on your left side during this time. Sleeping on the left side helps center the uterus, which naturally rotates to the right side, improving blood flow. You can try putting a pillow between your legs to comfortably support your back. For your back, the long body pillow or wedge pillow for can be helpful.
2. Eating for Two
Many people may recommend eating for two, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy when the baby is larger. However, consuming more calories than required can lead to problems like gestational diabetes. Your body only needs 100 extra calories per day in the first trimester and 300 extra calories per day in the second and third trimesters. Although as a mom-to-be you need to eat more during pregnancy, it’s not for anyone else. Remember that what you eat is more important than how much you make.The foods you eat during pregnancy help lay the foundation for your baby. Therefore, you should eat enough for you and your baby. Check out how you can stick to a healthy eating plan to ensure you and your baby are getting all the nutrients you need. Talk to your obstetrician or healthcare provider to understand your nutritional needs during pregnancy.
3. Sleep Less
Some pregnant moms can interfere with their sleep as they try to maintain a work-life balance. In the third trimester of pregnancy, you can also try to do as much work as possible before the baby is born to buy time. Therefore, you may miss out on much-needed sleep and rest, which is very important.
Good sleep during pregnancy is essential. Try to get at least eight hours of sleep every night.Outside of work, certain third trimester symptoms can make it difficult for you to sleep well. Avoid sleeping on your back or right side; Instead, sleep on your left side as this increases blood flow to your uterus and baby. You can use pillows for your legs, back or stomach. Remember that getting a good night’s sleep while pregnant will make you feel refreshed and energized during pregnancy.
4. Avoid Exercise
Exercise is just as important during pregnancy as a healthy diet. Therefore, unless your obstetrician has advised you not to engage in physical activity during the third trimester of pregnancy, maintain an excellent exercise routine. You can try pregnancy-safe exercises like walking, jogging, pelvic floor exercises, and others. These exercises will also help prepare your body for labor and delivery while keeping you physically fit. But remember, don’t exhaust yourself. An easy way to find out is if you can hold a conversation while exercising. Make sure you eat well and eat a variety of foods that provide you with enough energy and nutrients. Don’t forget to talk to your obstetrician before starting any new exercise and ask for advice on a healthy routine.
5. Not Eating Enough
It’s natural to fret over weight gain in the third trimester of pregnancy. But that doesn’t mean you have to limit your calorie intake. If you don’t eat enough, your body and baby may not be getting all the nutrients they need, leading to deficiencies. So don’t worry about gaining weight during pregnancy as it is completely normal.