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Traveling
during the third trimester is difficult--it's not easy for
Mom to stay in one position very long, and it's not best for
the baby either. Many doctors recommend not flying or going
on long car rides during the third trimester. If you are planning
to travel, consult your doctor about strategies and precautions
that you should consider.
The baby
will gain about 33% of its birth weight from now until birth--that's
almost 1/2 pound per week! As of right now, your baby is nearly
5 lbs and approximately 17 inches long. As for Mom, the average
weight gain to this point is near 25 bs.
Some of
the baby's weight increase during this time period is due
to the fact that the baby is becoming more plump as his or
her body is fattening up in order to get ready for survival
in the outside world. As a result, the skin is thickening
and also lightening from reddish to pink.
Unlike
the rest of his or her bones, the baby's skull remains pliable,
maintaining the flexibility needed for getting through the
birth canal.
The baby
has most likely turned into a head-down position now, too.
As the
baby continues to grow, your appetite may be growing, too.
Keep the diet healthy, though, as your baby's immune system
is readying itself for the outside world and needs all of
the nutrients you can provide him or her. Also, indigestion,
heartburn, and cramping will be alleviated mostly through
healthy eating and staying hydrated.
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