Your Third Trimester of Pregnancy After a Miscarriage

If you've experienced a miscarriage in the past and are now pregnant again, it's natural to still feel cautious even as you enter the third trimester. We'll help you prepare for the delivery and birth of your baby as your pregnancy continues to progress.

First, congratulations on reaching the third trimester! Although you may still feel worried because of your pregnancy history, you'll need to start preparations for delivery if you haven't already.

Gather up all the things you'll need on hand for your baby's arrival — and keep in close contact with your doctor to make sure the rest of your pregnancy is smooth sailing.

Here are some highlights from our pregnancy guide, which can help you better understand this stage of the game.

Your Third Trimester After a Miscarriage

pregnant woman and her husband with watermelon — Photography by Bobi / Getty Images

The third trimester can be an exciting time, but it's equally likely that you may start feeling restless and anxious to just have the baby. This may be compounded if you've had a miscarriage. Here are the key milestones during the third trimester, common questions, and other points to consider in the final third of your pregnancy.

Third Trimester Prenatal Care

You'll start seeing your doctor or midwife more frequently during this trimester — usually, every two weeks starting at around 28 weeks, and then weekly from 36 weeks through your baby's birth. The schedule may include even more frequent visits if your pregnancy is deemed high risk.

Fetal Kick Counts

Starting in the third trimester, your healthcare provider will most likely advise you to begin monitoring your baby's movement patterns. Always call if you notice any significant decrease in your baby's movement, even if your baby's heartbeat seems normal on a baby heart rate monitor.

When to Call Your Care Provider

A decrease in fetal movement is one sign to call your practitioner, but you should also call if you notice any bleeding or any other signs of preterm labor.

What Non-Stress Tests Look For

Your doctor or midwife may ask you to come in for one or more "non-stress tests" during the third trimester, especially if your pregnancy is considered high risk. You can learn how a non-stress test works and what it looks for.

Thinking About Names

You and your partner might have the baby's name picked out already, but if you've been holding off or if you haven't settled on anything yet, here are some tips for how to pick the right name.

Having a Baby Shower

Even if you were hesitant to think too much about baby showers before now, chances are it's time to think about them now. The usual tradition is that a friend or relative will plan your baby shower, but you'll still need to consider whether you are going to set up a registry and what kind of thank you notes you will want to send. Here are some common questions about baby showers and how they work.

Writing a Birth Plan

Writing a birth plan is a good way to let your healthcare providers know your preferences in advance, although you should always be prepared for the unexpected. Your birth plan can help you feel more in control of your pregnancy, which can be especially helpful if you've had a miscarriage.

Other Preparations for Your Baby

Before you give birth, you'll want to think carefully about questions like what kind of pain relief you want during labor and what you want to pack in your hospital bag. You'll also want to make sure to have the basic baby care items on hand, such as a car seat, clothes and at least one or two bags of diapers. It also helps to read up on breastfeeding.

By Krissi Danielsson
Krissi Danielsson, MD is a doctor of family medicine and an advocate for those who have experienced miscarriage.

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