Third trimester

In the third trimester, the body increasingly focuses on the upcoming birth. Nausea is much less common in this phase than at the beginning of pregnancy, but it can recur or develop in some women.

In contrast to the first trimester, hormonal causes are now usually less decisive. Instead, physical changes play a greater role: the growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach and digestive organs, which can lead to bloating, heartburn, or occasional nausea. Slower digestion can also increase discomfort.

In addition, fatigue, lack of sleep, or overall increased physical stress in the last trimester can contribute to nausea. Some women are more sensitive to large meals or certain foods during this phase.

In most cases, nausea in the third trimester is harmless and temporary. However, if severe or suddenly increasing symptoms occur, especially in combination with other symptoms, this should be clarified by a doctor . Overall, the third trimester is characterized by physical preparation for childbirth – with changes that can also be noticeable in the gastrointestinal tract.

In the third trimester, the body has changed significantly to make room for the growing baby. The uterus is now significantly enlarged and extends to below the rib cage.

This need for space pushes the surrounding organs upward and to the side. The stomach is higher than usual and is compressed, which means it feels full more quickly. At the same time, the transition between the stomach and esophagus is under pressure, making it easier for stomach acid to flow back. This promotes heartburn and can also cause nausea.

The intestines have less space, their movements slow down, and the diaphragm is pushed upward, which can make breathing a little more difficult. All of these changes are normal adjustments to advanced pregnancy. They explain why some women experience nausea or an unpleasant feeling of pressure in the upper abdomen again in the third trimester, despite stable hormone levels.