Healthy Pregnancy Tips: 3 Potentially Dangerous 3rd Trimester Pregnancy Symptoms

There are many third trimester pregnancy symptoms that women will experience, but there are some symptoms that pregnant women should never ignore. Learning about potentially dangerous third trimester pregnancy symptoms can help keep both the mother and baby healthy and safe.

1. Vaginal Bleeding

Although light vaginal spotting is common for some pregnant women after having sexual intercourse and vaginal exams, vaginal bleeding that resembles a menstrual period during the last three months of pregnancy can be dangerous. "Placental abruption typically occurs past the 20th week of pregnancy and can cause period-like bleeding," Modern Mom shared.

Placental abruption happens to one percent of all pregnant women. Go to the doctor as soon as possible if you experience period-like vaginal bleeding during the third trimester because this condition is potentially fatal to both the baby and the mother.

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2. Contractions

One of the most common potentially dangerous third trimester pregnancy symptoms is experiencing contractions. Contractions during the third trimester can signal a premature delivery. "Contractions that come prior to 36 weeks of pregnancy and occur more than six times an hour-even at rest-need immediate medical attention, according to the Dr. Spock website," Modern Mom explained.

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3. Vaginal Discharge

Pregnant women should learn how to distinguish normal vaginal discharge and abnormal vaginal discharge that could mean an infection. Vaginal discharge that has an odd odor and color (it could be yellow, pink, brown or green) can be a signal of the presence of infection, Fit Pregnancy reported.

Have you experienced any of these potentially dangerous third trimester pregnancy symptoms? Share your story in the comments section below.