third trimester 29-40 weeks

physical symptoms

backache

Your growing belly puts pressure on your whole body, but your back feels the brunt of it. Avoid heavy lifting and watch how you sit. Support your lower back with a special pregnancy

support pillow support briefs or belt,and consider attending a pregnancy yoga or gental aqua-natal class,all of which should help.Check out our latest Nexcare maternity support belt.

stretch marks

The commonest of pregnancy niggles, these unwelcome reddish streaks often appear across the tummy, hips, thighs, breasts and upper arms in the final weeks (if not before). Applying cream regularly can help to reduce their severity

varicose veins

These are more common if you're overweight or have a family history of them. Ease symptoms by avoiding standing for long periods, putting your feet up whenever you can and wearing support tights.

water retention

You may have to resort to wearing flip-flops as your due date looms, thanks to puffy feet and ankles. Swelling (oedema) is caused by an increase in body fluids during pregnancy. Avoid standing, crossing your legs and wearing tight shoes or heels, and tell your midwife who will monitor the condition. If your feet and legs ache, ask your partner to apply a refreshing foot lotion before bed.

More support

Visit www.gurgle.com for more information on all aspects of pregnancy, birth and parenting. There, you can build up a network of friends by chatting to other mums who are going through a similar experience.