Pregnancy - 3rd Trimester

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plan to take maternity leave from work?
I am having difficulty sleeping. What can I do to help this?
What can I do to help plan for birth?
I have experienced some prenatal depression during this pregnancy. Will this go away after the birth?

When should I plan to take maternity leave from work?
If you are still working in your 3rd trimester and have not yet done so, plan your maternity leave from work now. Decide when you would like to start your leave, and talk to your health care provider about what is right for you. You may want to and be able to work right up until you deliver the baby. Or you may want to take a few weeks off before the baby arrives. If you are self‑employed you may need to make arrangements with your clients. Find out what paperwork needs to be completed for your leave to make sure that you receive all the benefits that you are entitled to.

For more information about maternity and parental leave, click here.

I am having difficulty sleeping. What can I do to help this?
During the 3rd trimester it is common for women to have difficulty sleeping. Here are some tips to help you:

  • have regular sleep habits
  • be physically active during the day
  • before going to bed try:
    • taking a warm, relaxing bath
    • eating a snack with a warm drink
    • using extra pillows for support
    • practising deep breathing and relaxation exercises
    • listening to relaxing music

For more information about changes you may experience during your 3rd trimester, click here.

What can I do to help plan for birth?
There are several things you can do to help plan for your birth, including:

  • Decide who you want to be with you during labour and birth.
  • If you have other children, think about if you want them at the birth. If you want them in the room, talk to your health care provider about this ahead of time. If you don’t want them there, you will need to have someone look after your children.
  • Have your things packed and prepared before you go into labour. For a list of things to pack for the hospital, click here.
  • Write down your birth wishes. Your birth wishes are a written outline of the things you would prefer to do or have happen during your labour, birth, and the days following birth. To see the birth wishes tool, click here. But be aware that for a number of reasons, it is not always possible for all of your birth wishes to be followed.

For more information on preparing for birth, click here.

I have experienced some depression during this pregnancy. Will this go away after the birth?
During your pregnancy, your body and hormones are changing, and you have to adjust to having a baby growing inside you. While having a baby is usually a time of celebration, is can also be a stressful time, and you may find it hard to cope with sudden changes to your life. Depression during pregnancy can have an impact on your health, your pregnancy, the health of your developing baby, and the ability for you to care for yourself and your baby after the birth. Experiencing depression in pregnancy also puts you at greater risk of developing postpartum depression (depression after the birth) if it was not treated.

If you think that you may have or are experiencing depression during pregnancy, it is important to seek help now. If possible, talk to your partner about how you are feeling. You may also find it helpful to talk to other people you trust, or to your health care provider. Do not try to deal with depression by yourself. There are people who help women in this situation. Remember – this is common and can be treated.

For more information about depression during or after pregnancy, click here.