Deepika Padukone's IG story has everyone talking; Here's what third trimester really feels like

Deepika Padukone has opened up, in her own understated way, about life in the third trimester of pregnancy. The actor, who is expecting her second child with husband Ranveer Singh, reposted a humorous Instagram reel about waking up several times during the night to use the bathroom. Her understated reaction, an upside-down smiley emoji, suggested that she is experiencing the same late-pregnancy discomforts that many women face as they prepare for childbirth.
The third trimester often feels like standing at the finish line while still running the race. The baby's arrival is finally within sight, yet the weeks leading up to birth can bring some of pregnancy's biggest physical and emotional challenges.

The body is carrying more weight than ever before, sleep becomes elusive, everyday tasks feel surprisingly difficult, and emotions can swing between joy and anxiety in a matter of minutes.

While every experience is unique, many women share similar struggles that deserve far more conversation than they usually receive.

Breathlessness during simple tasks

Climbing a flight of stairs, walking at a brisk pace or even talking for long periods may suddenly leave a woman short of breath.

As the baby grows, the expanding uterus pushes upwards against the diaphragm, leaving less room for the lungs to expand fully. At the same time, the body requires more oxygen to support both mother and baby.

While mild breathlessness is common, severe difficulty breathing, chest pain or sudden breathlessness should always be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Sleep becomes a daily battle

Many women expect sleepless nights after the baby arrives, but disturbed sleep often begins weeks earlier.

Finding a comfortable sleeping position becomes increasingly difficult. Frequent trips to the bathroom, leg cramps, heartburn, baby's movements and anxious thoughts can interrupt sleep several times during the night.

Experts generally recommend sleeping on the left side during late pregnancy, using supportive pillows between the knees and under the bump to improve comfort.

Back pain that refuses to leave

As the bump grows, the body's centre of gravity shifts forward. The back muscles work harder to maintain balance, while pregnancy hormones loosen ligaments in preparation for childbirth.

The result is persistent lower back pain that may make standing, walking or sitting for long periods uncomfortable. Gentle stretching, maintaining good posture and using supportive footwear can often ease some of the strain. Women should always seek medical advice before beginning new exercise routines during pregnancy.

Swollen feet and ankles

Many women notice that their shoes suddenly feel tighter towards the end of pregnancy.

Fluid retention becomes more noticeable during the third trimester, particularly after long periods of standing or during hot weather. Swelling usually affects the feet, ankles and sometimes the hands.

Putting the feet up whenever possible, staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged standing may help reduce swelling.

However, sudden or severe swelling, especially when accompanied by headaches or changes in vision, requires immediate medical attention.

The never ending need to visit the toilet

Just when sleep finally arrives, another trip to the bathroom often follows. The growing baby places increasing pressure on the bladder, reducing the amount of urine it can comfortably hold. Many women find themselves planning journeys around easy access to toilets.

Although frequent urination is expected, burning while passing urine, fever or persistent pain should be checked as they may indicate a urinary tract infection.

Heartburn that appears out of nowhere

Spicy food is not always the culprit. Pregnancy hormones relax the valve between the stomach and the food pipe, making acid reflux more likely. As the uterus enlarges, it also presses against the stomach, increasing the chance of heartburn.

Eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down immediately after eating and limiting foods that trigger symptoms can often provide relief.

Braxton Hicks contractions can feel confusing

Many first-time mothers worry they are going into labour weeks before their due date.

Braxton Hicks contractions, often called practice contractions, usually feel irregular and tend to settle with rest or hydration. They help the uterus prepare for labour but do not cause the cervix to open.

Regular contractions that become stronger, closer together or are accompanied by leaking fluid or bleeding require prompt medical assessment.

Emotional highs and lows

The third trimester is not only demanding physically but emotionally as well. Many women find themselves thinking constantly about labour, parenthood and whether they are truly ready for the changes ahead. Some feel emotional after leaving work for maternity leave, while others struggle with the sudden loss of independence as their mobility decreases.

It is perfectly normal to experience moments of self-doubt alongside excitement. Sharing concerns with a partner, family member, trusted friend or healthcare provider can often ease the emotional burden.

Feeling constantly tired

Fatigue often returns during the final months, despite many women expecting to feel more energetic than they did during the first trimester.

Carrying additional weight, poor sleep, increased blood circulation and the body's continuous work to support the baby's growth can leave women feeling exhausted.

Listening to the body's signals, resting when needed and accepting help with everyday tasks can make this period more manageable.

The mental load of waiting

One of the least discussed struggles is the waiting itself.

Every unfamiliar ache, tightening or change in movement can spark questions. Is labour beginning? Is everything alright? Has the baby moved enough today? The final weeks can feel both incredibly long and surprisingly uncertain.

Many women describe this period as living between two worlds. Pregnancy is almost over, but parenthood has not quite begun. The anticipation can be emotionally draining, even when everything is progressing normally.

The third trimester asks a great deal of a woman's body and mind. While discomforts are common, they should never be dismissed if they feel unusual, severe or persistent.

Regular antenatal appointments remain an important opportunity to discuss symptoms and ensure both mother and baby are doing well.

(Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your doctor if you have concerns about your pregnancy or experience unusual symptoms.)

-Compiled by Salma