Third Trimester Prenatal Care Visits
Having Ongoing Conversations with Your Healthcare Providers
During the last part of pregnancy, regular check-ins help monitor both the mother’s and baby’s well-being. At each appointment, the healthcare team asks about any new symptoms, such as contractions, unusual vaginal discharge, or signs of fluid loss. They check blood pressure, weight, and the baby’s heartbeat to watch for any changes.
Tracking fetal movements is important. Expectant individuals count how many times the baby moves, aiming for at least ten movements in two hours each day. If you notice a decrease in activity, let your care team know right away, as this can help prevent problems.
Healthcare providers may discuss vaccinations during these visits. Some vaccines can help protect both mother and baby, including flu shots. The Tdap vaccine, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, is recommended between 27 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. Some doctors may also suggest the RSV vaccine to lower the risk of respiratory infection for the newborn.
As your due date approaches, visits become more frequent. Appointments are typically scheduled every two to four weeks until 36 weeks, and then every one to two weeks until delivery. This closer monitoring helps catch any changes quickly and supports planning for labor.
Common Items Discussed at Each Visit
| Exam or Discussion | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Blood Pressure | Monitors for preeclampsia. |
| Weight | Tracks healthy pregnancy gains. |
| Baby’s Heartbeat | Checks baby’s well-being. |
| Fetal Movements | Signals baby’s health status. |
| Vaccinations | Reduces disease risk. |
| Signs of Preterm Labor | Helps prevent early delivery. |
| Questions About Birth Preferences | Prepares for labor and delivery conversations. |
You might also discuss lifestyle questions like diet, exercise, and sleep quality. Managing stress and staying physically active are important for third-trimester health.
Screening for Group B Streptococcus Infection
Later in the third trimester, providers routinely check for group B strep (GBS). Group B streptococcus is a bacterium often found in the lower genital region and intestines. While most adults do not have issues from GBS, it can be harmful to newborns, especially during vaginal delivery.
For the test, a provider or the patient (after instructions) uses a swab to collect a sample from the lower vagina and rectal area. The sample goes to a lab for review. If the test comes back positive, or if there is a history of a previous baby with GBS disease, the provider gives antibiotics through a vein during labor. This lowers the risk of passing GBS to the baby.
Group B Strep Testing Process
- Who Gets Tested: Most pregnant patients between weeks 35-37.
- How It’s Done: Swab of the vaginal and rectal areas.
- If Positive: IV antibiotics during labor.
Some providers may offer self-testing instructions for those more comfortable collecting the sample themselves. Be sure to follow all instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
Checking the Baby’s Location and Orientation
In the final weeks, the healthcare team checks the baby’s position inside the uterus. The best position for delivery is head-down. However, some babies may be in breech positions, such as frank breech, footling breech, or complete breech, where the legs are crossed. If the baby is still not head-down after 36 weeks, providers may talk about options.
One option is external cephalic version (ECV), where the doctor gently presses on the abdomen to try to turn the baby head-down. ECV usually happens with ultrasound guidance to watch the baby’s movements. If the baby stays breech or if ECV isn’t chosen, the provider may suggest planning a C-section for a safer delivery.
Types of Baby Positions in Late Pregnancy
- Head-Down (Vertex): Ideal for vaginal birth.
- Frank Breech: Bottom first, legs up toward head.
- Footling Breech: Feet down toward the birth canal.
- Complete Breech: Bottom down, knees bent, and legs crossed.
Your provider may also estimate the baby’s weight and amniotic fluid levels during these checks, which can help plan for a smooth delivery.
Continue to Speak Up and Ask Questions
As the due date approaches, many individuals feel anxious or uncertain. Keep asking your care team about anything on your mind. Questions can include topics like sexual activity, what labor will feel like, pain relief choices, and advice on making a birth plan.
Know when to contact your healthcare team. They will give guidance about situations to watch for, such as vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, or sudden changes in vaginal discharge. Ask how to reach them if labor starts or if you have urgent questions.
Tips for Preparing for the End of Pregnancy
- Write down questions before each visit.
- Ask for details about pain relief and labor signs.
- Request clear instructions for when to call your team.
- Discuss planning for postpartum care after birth.
- Pack your hospital bag and review what to bring for both you and your baby.
- Talk about what to expect during hospital admission and how to recognize active labor.
Being well-informed can help reduce stress and boost confidence as you approach delivery. Your care team is there to guide and support you through each step.
