Everything happened so fast! But the moment you held the positive test result in your hands, it felt like 9 months would take an eternity to go by. And as soon as you blinked, the end of pregnancy was here. The final stretch of pregnancy is surrounded by lots of exhaustion, running around with preparations, many bodily discomforts, and above all, a lot of anxiety. Just thinking that at any moment the most precious gift you’ve ever dreamed of will be in your arms, that little being who kicked you for months, made your appetite change, and sent your mood swinging from zero to ten in seconds, is about to arrive, it truly gives you butterflies in your stomach.
The end of pregnancy is tough for all women, believe me! No matter how smooth your pregnancy has been, the end will be tiring. Fewer and fewer clothes will fit each day, shoes will hardly feel comfortable on your feet, your bladder will need to be emptied constantly, including in the middle of the night.
Main Discomforts at the End of Pregnancy
A woman’s body goes through many changes over the 9 months of pregnancy, from weight to structure, and everything is working towards the big day, the birth. The pelvis widens, organs move out of place1 to make room for the uterus to grow with the baby inside, and as a result, aches and discomfort inevitably occur.
Some women may feel these discomforts more intensely than others, depending on how their bodies respond to these changes or even their physical condition before pregnancy. The main discomforts are:
Heartburn
Heartburn is a symptom that can haunt an expectant mother from the discovery of pregnancy all the way to the day of delivery2. This will depend on your eating habits, your lifestyle, and, overall, your luck. The obstetrician might prescribe medication to provide relief, but for most women, what works best is being careful with what and how much you eat, and habits such as avoiding lying down right after meals.
Back Pain
Back pain is one of the inevitable symptoms of pregnancy, especially at the end3. As the belly grows and the baby gains weight, your back is forced to carry extra pounds, on top of affecting your posture and making it harder to sit and lie down, resulting in severe pain. Some ways to relieve this discomfort include using a specific maternity support belt, applying warm compresses to the lower back, and avoiding physical exertion.
Swelling in Legs and Body
Swelling is a common and expected symptom during pregnancy. It may start early, but it’s more common during the second and third trimester. Swelling happens due to fluid retention in the mother’s body, resulting in areas like the feet, ankles, and hands becoming completely “puffed up.” To reduce swelling, the pregnant woman should rest with her legs elevated or, whenever sitting, use a foot support. Avoid sitting or standing for too long, don’t wear tight shoes, and if possible, do exercises to help circulation.
Leg Cramps
Cramps are one of the most frequent discomforts at the end of pregnancy. Sudden and intense pain in the legs and feet can strike without warning, leaving the mother nearly paralyzed. One way to relieve the symptoms is to stretch and, during the cramp, stretch the affected muscles. Drinking plenty of water and eating foods rich in magnesium can help reduce cramps during this stage.
Shortness of Breath
At the end of pregnancy, it’s very common for mothers to complain about shortness of breath. This happens because the uterus compresses the lungs, making it harder for air to pass through. The best way to manage this is to sit down, try to relax, and take deep breaths to regain control of your breathing.
Insomnia
A lot of anxiety, fears, worries combined with a hormonal rollercoaster at the end of pregnancy lead to sleepless nights. Many women suffer from this in the third trimester, which can worsen all the other discomforts because of physical and mental exhaustion. Create a bedtime routine, avoid napping in the afternoon, and your nighttime sleep will be healthier. Take a warm bath and relax.
How to Relax at the End of Pregnancy?
Relaxing in the final stretch of pregnancy may seem like a complicated task for women, since it really is an incredible moment of total surrender and anticipation. But there are ways to control this anxiety and enjoy every second of this final stretch.
Avoiding stress and controlling anxiety will lead to a healthier end to pregnancy and better mental preparation for delivery and the postpartum period. Here are 10 tips to help you get through this period as pleasantly as possible.
Sleep – Most pregnant women feel uncontrollably sleepy, but fight this symptom for not wanting to feel “lazy” (except those who suffer from insomnia). Sleeping helps you relax, feel more energetic, and stay calmer. Establish a sleep routine and rest as much as you can — this will even help your baby be more peaceful after birth.
Relax to pleasant music – Avoid crowded places that can make you even more anxious during this time. Rest with your feet up, listen to calm and soothing music, and take the moment to gently stroke and talk to your baby.
Enjoy outings – Look for activities that bring you peace and tranquility, such as a walk outdoors. Most cities have parks and clubs where you can disconnect from daily stress, read a good book, and unwind.
Pleasant company – There are always those “know-it-all” and unpleasant people at every stage of life, but during this time, you need them the least. Keep close to people who are positive, lively, great to talk to, and who’ll help you make this moment more peaceful and magical.
Warm bath – Even if you need to save water and energy, allow yourself the luxury of a warm, long bath now and then. Let the water run down your back and belly, close your eyes and relax. Take the time to caress your belly and be present in the moment.
Exercise – Even if you’re not the fitness type, exercise is always a way to relax. If you don’t already have an exercise routine, start with walking and stretching, which besides helping prepare your body for labor, will give you peace of mind and much greater control over anxiety.
TV and Internet – As much as these are great distractions, be careful how you use them. Avoid watching programs, news, or even reading stories that will make you more anxious or nervous. Opt for movies, videos, and articles that help you relax or maybe teach you about caring for your baby!
Preparing the Layette – Use every second of your final days of pregnancy to check details, finish up anything that’s missing and keep your mind occupied, making everything just as you imagined for your baby’s arrival. Take care of the little clothes, the nursery, and even souvenirs.
Foot soak – A delightful way to relax and help reduce swelling in the legs and feet, a warm foot soak is wonderful. Prepare a basin with warm water and chamomile or fennel tea bags (or your favorite). If you want, add a few drops of baby shampoo. Place your feet inside, close your eyes and relax.
Eat well – Healthy eating is recommended at every stage of life, especially during pregnancy. At the end of pregnancy, fruits, vegetables, and natural juices not only nourish mother and baby but will also boost the vitamins that help regulate anxiety and stress levels.
Stay intimate if you feel like it – Contrary to popular belief, pregnancy can actually increase a woman’s libido. We know sex becomes harder at the end because of the belly’s weight, but if you want to and your doctor says it’s okay, go ahead.
See also: How to Calculate Pregnancy Length? – Understanding the Medical Calculation
