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Pregnant Moms May Not Feel Their Baby Move as Much in the Last Trimester

Last Updated: September 03, 2009

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Prenatal Tips for the Third Trimester

During the last trimester or the seventh, eighth, and ninth months of pregnancy, babies gain almost five pounds and grow about seven inches. Because of this growth, your baby will have less room to move around in your abdomen, so you probably will not feel as much movement as you did in the second trimester. The baby also moves into its birth position, so you may notice the baby moving lower in your abdomen.

This change in position could relieve some pressure on your lungs and ribcage. In the last weeks of pregnancy, your baby’s growth will slow down. Most babies will move into an upside-down position in preparation for moving through the birth canal. Best wishes for healthy labor and delivery!


Learn more about Your Prenatal Baby: Third Trimester from Just In Time Parenting. You can also go to our Resource Links for additional information on child care and development.


Note to Parents: When reading this newsletter, remember: Every baby is different. Children may do things earlier or later than described here. This newsletter gives equal space and time to both sexes. If he or she is used, we are talking about all babies.
References: These materials were adapted by authors from Extension Just in Time Parenting Newsletters in California, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Tennessee, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Wisconsin.

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