Antenatal Checkups in Your Third Trimester: Why They’re More Important Than Ever

The third trimester of pregnancy is a time of significant growth and change for both you and your baby. Regular antenatal checkups during this stage are crucial for monitoring your baby’s development, preparing for labour, and identifying potential complications. Missing these appointments can have serious consequences, so it’s important to prioritise your care.

This article explores the essential role of third-trimester antenatal checkups, why attending early appointments is equally critical, and how antenatal care ensures the best outcomes for you and your baby.

Early Antenatal Care Sets the Foundation for a Healthy Pregnancy

The best way to ensure a smooth and safe pregnancy journey is to inform your GP as soon as you suspect you’re pregnant. Early registration ensures timely access to essential screenings, ultrasounds, and antenatal care.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss First and Second Trimester Appointments

Key Screenings: The NHS advises that your first antenatal appointment (booking appointment) take place by 10 weeks to screen for conditions like anaemia, infections, or high-risk factors that require additional monitoring.

Timely Ultrasounds: The dating scan (10–14 weeks) establishes your due date, while the anomaly scan (18–20 weeks) identifies potential structural abnormalities.

Ongoing Monitoring: Conditions such as restricted foetal growth, gestational diabetes, or chromosomal concerns often require early intervention.

Evidence: According to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), women who attend their first antenatal appointment by 10 weeks are less likely to experience complications later in pregnancy.

Why Third Trimester Checkups Are Critical

As you approach labour, antenatal checkups in the third trimester become more frequent and focused on ensuring your baby is growing well, preparing for delivery, and addressing late-pregnancy concerns.

1. Monitoring Baby’s Growth and Position

In the third trimester, your baby’s growth accelerates, and their position becomes a key focus.

What Happens at Checkups:

Fundal Height Measurement: The midwife measures your bump from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus to assess whether the baby is growing at an expected rate. If growth is slow, they may recommend additional growth scans.

Baby’s Position: Your midwife will check whether the baby is head-down (cephalic position) in preparation for vaginal delivery. If the baby is in a breech position (bottom first), your provider may discuss options like external cephalic version (ECV) after 37 weeks to encourage the baby to turn. Babies in a transverse position (lying sideways) are usually monitored, as they often adjust naturally.

Evidence: Research in the International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (2020) shows that monitoring baby positioning reduces complications during labour by ensuring the best delivery method is planned.

2. Screening for Late Pregnancy Complications

Even if your pregnancy has been low-risk so far, late-pregnancy complications can arise. Regular third-trimester antenatal checkups help detect these conditions early.

Conditions Monitored:

Preeclampsia: Symptoms include high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and swelling. Your midwife will monitor for these signs at every visit.

Gestational Diabetes: Some women develop this condition later in pregnancy, even if they tested normal earlier. Additional testing or dietary changes may be necessary.

Foetal Growth Restriction: Growth scans may be recommended if there are concerns about the baby’s size or the function of the placenta.

Evidence: The NHS Antenatal Care Guidelines emphasise that early detection of these conditions reduces the likelihood of complications during labour and delivery.

3. Assessing Maternal Well-Being

The physical and emotional demands of late pregnancy can be overwhelming. Third-trimester checkups provide an opportunity to focus on your well-being.

What to Expect:

Blood Pressure and Urine Tests: Continued monitoring for signs of preeclampsia or infection.

Mental Health Support: Your midwife may discuss any concerns about anxiety, depression, or fears about labour and offer resources or referrals if needed.

Physical Comfort: Discussing ways to manage common third-trimester discomforts, such as back pain or swelling, through antenatal yoga, antenatal massage, or other relaxation techniques.

4. Planning for Labour and Delivery

As your due date approaches, antenatal checkups shift focus to preparing for delivery and ensuring you understand the signs of labour.

Key Discussions:

Birth Plan: Your preferences for pain management, delivery methods, and support during labour.

Labour Signs: How to recognise contractions, when to call your antenatal clinic, and what to expect in early labour.

Induction or Caesarean: If your baby is overdue or if complications arise, your provider will discuss the need for an induction or planned caesarean.

Evidence: A study in the British Journal of Midwifery found that women who felt prepared for labour through antenatal education and discussions with their midwife experienced less anxiety and greater satisfaction with their birth experience.

Why Continuity of Care Matters in the Third Trimester

Seeing the same midwife throughout pregnancy—known as continuity of care—has been proven to improve birth outcomes.

Benefits of Continuity of Care:

Improved Communication: A strong relationship with your midwife ensures better understanding of your needs and preferences.

Lower Risk of Preterm Birth: Women receiving continuity of care are 24% less likely to experience preterm labour (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2021).

Increased Satisfaction: Familiarity with your midwife reduces anxiety and fosters a sense of trust.

Encourage your partner to attend these appointments as well to build a shared understanding and strengthen your support system.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Third-Trimester Appointments

Come Prepared: Write down any questions or concerns, especially about labour signs, pain relief, or postpartum recovery.

Involve Your Partner: Encourage them to attend appointments to stay informed and provide emotional support.

Stay Active and Healthy: Discuss safe exercises like walking or yoga during pregnancy to prepare your body for labour.

UK Resources for Antenatal Support

NHS Pregnancy Services: Comprehensive prenatal care, including third-trimester guidance and mental health resources.

Visit NHS Pregnancy Care

Tommy’s PregnancyHub: Expert advice on managing late-pregnancy concerns and preparing for delivery.

Visit Tommy’s

National Childbirth Trust (NCT): Offers antenatal classes, support groups, and workshops on labour preparation.

Visit NCT

Final Thoughts: Prioritising Third-Trimester Checkups

The third trimester is a critical period where regular antenatal checkups ensure your baby’s growth, monitor your health, and prepare you for labour. Missing these appointments can delay the detection of complications, so make them a priority.

Equally important, attending all early antenatal appointments sets the foundation for a healthy pregnancy, ensuring key screenings and interventions are not missed. By working closely with your healthcare provider and staying informed, you’re giving your baby the best start in life.