The last trimester can be filled with anticipation, bodily changes, and many thoughts. Fortunately, most discomforts are a natural part of pregnancy, but some symptoms should always be taken seriously. Dear, you don't need to assess whether something is serious enough yourself. If in doubt, it is always right to contact your maternity ward, midwife, or doctor.

Which warning signs should you react to in the 3rd trimester?

In the 3rd trimester, it is especially important to react to changes that come suddenly, feel different from what you usually experience, or give you a clear sense that something is not as it should be.

• Reduced fetal movement or a noticeable change in the baby's movements. You know your baby's pattern best by now. Contact the maternity ward the same day if the baby moves less or differently than usual.
• Vaginal bleeding. A small, slimy show of blood may occur close to labor, but bleeding should always be assessed by a professional in the latter part of pregnancy.
• Rupture of membranes or suspicion of leaking amniotic fluid. Contact the maternity ward, even if you are not having contractions. Preferably wear a pad so you can describe the fluid's color, smell, and amount.
• Regular, increasing contractions before week 37. Contractions or rupture of membranes before week 37 can be a sign of incipient premature labor and should be assessed.
• Constant or severe abdominal pain. Especially if the abdomen feels hard all the time, is tender, or the pain comes with bleeding or malaise.

When can headache and swelling be a warning sign?

Headaches can have many harmless explanations, and slight swelling in the feet and ankles is common late in pregnancy. But severe or persistent headache, visual disturbances, and sudden swelling should not be ignored.

Contact the maternity ward or doctor if you experience one or more of these changes:

• severe or persistent headache
• visual disturbances such as flickering, spots, flashes of light, or blurred vision
• sudden swelling in the face, hands, or around the eyes
• pain or pressure in the upper abdomen, under the ribs, or in the chest
• sudden nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, or a marked feeling of malaise
• urinating much less than usual

The symptoms can, among other things, be seen in preeclampsia, but you should not try to diagnose yourself. The important thing is that you are assessed quickly and safely.

What do I do if I notice reduced fetal movement?

You should not wait until the next day or your next midwife consultation if you notice reduced fetal movement. Pay attention to whether the baby's movements have changed in strength, frequency, or character compared to the usual pattern, and call the maternity ward for guidance.

It is completely understandable to be worried when the movements feel different. Often, fortunately, the check shows that everything is fine. And precisely for that reason, you are welcome to call. You are not disturbing by reacting to your gut feeling.

When is it incipient labor, and when should I call?

Braxton Hicks contractions and false labor contractions can be irregular and often subside again with rest, calm, or a change in position. Labor contractions typically become more regular, stronger, and closer together. But labors develop differently, and you don't have to decipher it all yourself.

Contact the maternity ward if you have regular contractions, rupture of membranes, bleeding, or feel unsafe. If you have previously had a C-section and experience constant pain or contractions, you should also contact the maternity ward immediately.

When should I call 112?

Call 112 for life-threatening or severe acute symptoms, for example, if you faint, have severe breathing difficulties, severe chest pain, very heavy bleeding, or suddenly become seriously affected. For acute pregnancy symptoms where you are in doubt but are not experiencing a life-threatening situation, the maternity ward is often the right first place to call.

Give your body space, but also listen to it

Heaviness, fatigue, and soreness can be very present in the last weeks. Here, small breaks, rest, and non-constricting clothing can make everyday life more comfortable. A maternity support band can provide gentle support for the growing belly and lower back, but it is important to remember that support products are only for comfort. They can never replace an assessment from a midwife or doctor if you experience warning signs.

You know your body and your pregnancy. If something feels wrong, you must always reach out. It is care, not worry, to react in time.

Frequently asked questions

Are Braxton Hicks contractions a warning sign in the 3rd trimester?

Braxton Hicks contractions are common and often irregular. If the contractions become painful, frequent, or persistent, especially before week 37, you should contact the maternity ward.

Are swollen feet normal late in pregnancy?

Slight swelling in the feet and ankles is common. Sudden swelling in the face or hands, especially accompanied by headache or visual disturbances, should be assessed quickly.

Should I call if I am unsure if my water has broken?

Yes. Rupture of membranes can feel like a gush or persistent leaking. Contact the maternity ward, even if you are in doubt or are not having contractions.

Is it normal for the baby to move differently close to term?

The baby may feel different when there is less space, but you should still feel your baby's usual activity. If there is reduced or noticeably changed movement, you should contact the maternity ward the same day.