What to Expect in the Third Trimester: Guide for Gestational Carriers

Weeks 28 to Delivery

The third trimester is the final stretch of pregnancy and marks a time of both anticipation and preparation. As a gestational carrier, you are approaching an incredible milestone —  helping bring a child into the world on behalf of their intended parents. This guide will help you understand what to expect, how to stay healthy, and how to prepare for delivery and the postpartum transition. 

Physical Changes and Common Symptoms

As your body continues to adapt to the growing baby, you may experience: 

• Increased fatigue and difficulty sleeping 
• Shortness of breath due to pressure on the lungs 
• Frequent urination as the baby presses on your bladder 
• Swelling in your feet, ankles, and hands
• Backaches and pelvic discomfort
• Braxton Hicks contractions – irregular tightening of the uterus
• Leaky breasts due to colostrum production
• Fetal movement changes – baby may move less but more strongly due to limited space.

It’s important to stay in close communication with your provider about any new or unusual symptoms, such as persistent headaches, vision changes, or signs of preterm labor.

Prenatal Appointments and Monitoring

Medical visits become more frequent in the third trimester — usually every 2 weeks until week 36, and then weekly until delivery. 

These appointments may include: 

• Monitoring baby’s growth and position 
• Measuring fundal height and checking fetal heart rate
• Checking blood pressure and urine for signs of preeclampsia
• Group B Streptococcus (GBS) test  around 36–37 weeks 
• Cervical checks  to monitor dilation or effacement (as needed)
• Non-stress tests (NSTs) or additional ultrasounds if medically indicated

The team at Nascency will work closely with your provider and the intended parents to keep everyone informed and aligned.

Emotional Wellbeing and Postpartum Planning

As delivery nears, it’s common to experience a mix of excitement, physical discomfort, and emotional sensitivity. For gestational carriers, this stage may also bring unique feelings about the upcoming birth and the conclusion of your journey.

Tips to support emotional wellbeing:

• Talk regularly with your Nascency coordinator or support group 
• Reflect on the meaningful role you’ve played in creating a family
• Discuss any delivery-related concerns with your provider and coordinator 
• Make time for rest, self-care, and gentle movement 

Postpartum planning is key

Be sure to coordinate with the intended parents and Nascency on expectations for hospital time, physical recovery, emotional support, and any aftercare needs. 

Preparing for Delivery 

The third trimester is the time to finalize all plans for labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Key considerations include: 

• Reviewing and confirming the birth plan with your provider and the intended parents 
• Packing your hospital bag with essentials for labor and recovery
• Finalizing transportation and support plans for getting to the hospital 
• Arranging childcare (if applicable) for your own family during your hospital stay 
• Reviewing legal and hospital paperwork with your coordinator
• Clarifying who will be present during labor and how the baby will be cared for immediately after birth

Nascency will guide you through these details, ensuring that all logistics are handled with care

Third Trimester Checklist for Gestational Carriers

Brought to You by Nascency 

Medical & Physical Preparation

• Attend biweekly or weekly prenatal appointments 
• Complete Group B Strep (GBS) test (around 36–37 weeks) 
• Monitor fetal movement and report changes
• Watch for signs of preterm labor or complications 
• Continue taking prenatal vitamins and stay hydrated 
• Practice safe body movements and rest often 

Emotional & Mental Wellbeing 

• Check in regularly with your Nascency coordinator
• Talk openly about any emotional shifts or concerns
• Reflect on your journey and acknowledge your impact 
• Make time for rest, journaling, or light exercise 
• Consider postpartum mental health needs and supports 

Delivery & Postpartum Planning 

• Finalize the birth plan with your OB/midwife and the intended parents
• Pack your hospital bag with labor and postpartum essentials
• Coordinate logistics with Nascency (transport, childcare, hospital protocols) 
• Ensure all legal and medical paperwork is complete
• Discuss postpartum expectations, including physical recovery time, emotional care, and support system at home

You Are Not Alone — Nascency Is Here for You

As your delivery date approaches, know that the entire Nascency team is here to support you through each step — from final trimester preparations to a smooth postpartum transition. Your generosity and strength as a gestational carrier are life-changing, and we are honored to walk alongside you.