Third Trimester

Just when you think it's almost over, your pregnancy hits repeat.

Swelling

During pregnancy, the extra fluid in the body and the pressure from the growing uterus can cause swelling (or "edema") in the ankles and feet. The swelling tends to get worse as a woman's due date nears, particularly near the end of the day and during hotter weather. You may also notice swelling in the hands and face, especially if you try to take off any rings. It's not usually anything to worry about but specialist will tell you that if you notice your hands or face become puffy or if swelling persists for more than a day at a time (i.e., it doesn't improve overnight), to call your practitioner. It could be a sign of a condition called #preeclampsia or a more serious, but less common condition deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Here are some at home remedies that can help Reduce Swelling:

• Avoid long periods of standing or sitting.

• Kick up your feet, aka elevate your feet when you can.

• Sleep on your side, preferably your left

• Wear comfy shoes.

• Drink lots of water.

• Limit your Salt intake.

Heartburn

Even if you escaped indigestion early on in your pregnancy, there's a good chance you'll have it starting in the second or third trimester, when your uterus takes over your abdominal cavity and forces your stomach upwards. Chances are if you have severe heartburn your baby will be born with a full head of hair! As crazy as it sounds this old wives tale has been backed by research. Apparently the hormones that are responsible for #heartburn are the same hormones that are responsible for fetal hair to sprout!

Here are some ways to prevent heartburn:

• Avoid trigger foods. Highly seasoned or spicy food, fried or fatty foods, processed meats, chocolate, caffeine, carbonated beverages, mint and citrus.

• Don't drink and eat at the same time.

• Avoid digestive overload - Eat smaller meals

• Eat slowly.

• Wear loose fitting clothes.

• Watch your weight. Extra pounds can make heartburn worse by adding to the pressure on your digestive tract.

Insomnia

Anxiety, crazy pregnancy dreams, frequent trips to the bathroom or your babe kicking you in the ribs, getting enough sleep is crucial for good health, but #Insomnia, or the inability to fall or stay sleep, can hit especially hard in the third trimester.

Here are some ways that could prevent insomnia:

• Clear your mind. journal or talk it out with a partner or close friend.

• Avoid caffeine and chocolate.

• Eat small and early.

• Eat a light snack before bedtime.

• Try white noise and black-out shades.

• Wean off the screen.

• Get comfy.

• Ask your practitioner about the use of Melatonin or Magnesium.