Let's find out what happens during the third trimester of pregnancy: 26 - 40 weeks

Starting in the third trimester, it is very important to talk to the prenatal doctor about questions about labor, delivery, and postpartum.

It's time to prepare for birth!

During this period there is an increase in uterine contractions, which are not usually painful or frequent (7 to 8 throughout the day). Their purpose is to help the fetus acquire its final position.

In general, fetuses achieve the cephalic position (head to pelvis) between 30 and 34 weeks, after which it becomes more unlikely to change position due to the large fetal size.

Term of gestation is reached at 37 weeks, however, most labor begins between 39 and 40 weeks of gestation. A delivery at 37 or 40 weeks is completely normal, however, after 40 weeks the fetus should be monitored and interventions such as induction of labor should be planned if the pregnancy reaches 41 weeks.

If the birth occurs before week 37, it is considered premature and the baby must receive special attention.

Development of the Central Nervous System

During this period, the already formed structures of the central nervous system continue growth processes. From the neuronal point of view, myelination occurs
(process in which the axons of neurons are covered with myelin) which will be
fundamental for correct “communication” between neurons. This process continues
until months after birth.