Welcome to trimester 3

Congratulations for entering into your third trimester! We understand that this period is filled with anticipation and perhaps some uncertainty. This comprehensive course is designed to provide you with valuable insights, expert advice, and a wealth of information to support you in your final trimester.

In this course you will find the topics below and more:

• Nutrition: Information on caloric intake, fatigue, indigestion and getting the most out of your diet in the third trimester.
• Birth plan: Support on creating a birth plan that includes preferences for labour, delivery and immediate postnatal care. There is also information,  created by midwife, Iwona, and women’s health physiotherapist and scar therapist, Hannah, on natural births, C-sections, pain management, overdue information, and much more.
• Mental wellbeing: Guidance from psychotherapists, Nada and Jerilee, on navigating unsolicited advice, becoming a parent, relationships and finding support.
• Lifestyle and exercise: Trimester-specific exercise plans and advice from midwife and PT, Nadiye. Also, information breathing, stretching, sleep, and tips on moving around with a large bump.
• Body changes: There is an extensive collection on what you can expect from your body during this trimester, from mucus plugs and hair changes to back pain.

All the content within the course has been created in collaboration with medical experts, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and relevance. Your wellbeing is our top priority, and we want you to be armed with the best and most accurate information.

Flexible content structure

The content is divided into themed collections, offering a structured and bitesized approach. You have the flexibility to progress through the content in your own order and at your own pace—whether you choose to delve into a new topic each day or take more time to absorb the information is entirely up to you.

Diverse content formats

The course includes a blend of written and video content: explore detailed articles, watch videos led by experts, and gain insights from healthcare professionals. What’s more, there are guided yoga classes and trimester-specific workout exercise plans and demonstrations.

Health warning

While the course aims to provide comprehensive information, it’s crucial to note that every woman’s pregnancy journey is unique. We strongly advise you to maintain regular communication with your midwife or GP throughout your pregnancy. If you encounter any unusual symptoms, concerns, or have specific health-related queries, seeking professional guidance is paramount.

Confidence through information

Our overarching goal is to empower you with the knowledge and support you need to approach pregnancy with confidence. Whether you are a first-time mum or have experienced pregnancy before, “Third Trimester: Preparing for Birth and Beyond” is here to guide you to the end of your pregnancy journey.

Acknowledgements

Below is a list (in alphabetical order) of the many clinicians who have contributed to this programme:

Gráinne Donnelly, Advanced Physiotherapist in Pelvic Health (Absolute Physio)

Hannah Poulton, Women’s Health Physiotherapist, Scar Specialist, Acupuncturist & Educator (HLP Therapy Limited)

Henry Goodfellow, GP

Iwona Wojtuszko, Midwife and Sonographer (@polska.polozna.uk)

Jaye Fish, Diabetes Specialist Midwife

Jerilee Claydon, Clinical Psychotherapist, Couples Counsellor & Parenting Educator (Therapy Project)

Kelly McLoughlin, Midwife

Laura Caldicott, Midwife & Local Maternity and Neonatal System Prevention Lead

Myra Robson, Specialist Pelvic Health Physiotherapist

Nada Rahmouni, Counsellor and Psychotherapist

Nadiye Hassan, Midwife and Personal Trainer (@the_midwife_pt)

Patience Chandiwana, Consultant Midwife

Rosie Sampson (née Jacks), Pelvic Health Physiotherapist and Yoga Instructor (@rosie_physiogi)

Sanjiv Rikhi, Dental Surgeon, Aromaden Dental Clinic

Yasmin Hossain, Maternity Dietitian