By the time pregnancy reaches its last stage, the third trimester, both mom and baby are anxious for birth to come. While many couples find this time of the pregnancy the most stable and relaxed, it can also be the most uncomfortable due to the sheer weight of the baby. Mom often has trouble sleeping and is frequently using the restroom because the baby is resting on her bladder.

The last trimester of pregnancy is often most rewarding for mom; the ultrasound photos can be especially exciting because baby is nearly 100% formed; fingers and toes are now visible, facial features are recognizable, and the lungs and brain are nearly done developing. Babies born premature in this final stage of pregnancy have a higher chance of survival, however, doctors will want the baby to stay at the hospital until at least the 38th week, if not the 40th.

While a baby may be nearly fully developed by the last trimester, both the lungs and brain still need as close to 40 weeks as possible for optimum health. The most common problem with premature babies is lung development; many often have respiratory problems. The brain, while nearly fully developed, also needs the last few weeks to really form and shape into the wrinkled specimen most of us see in pictures.

The fetus' bones are also finished developing, though still very pliable, making the birth much easier on both mommy and baby. After delivery many bones begin to harden and fuse. Because the bones are present and fully formed they are also producing red blood cells which will be imperative to a baby's survival if born premature.

While a baby born any time after the 30 week period has a very high chance of survival, the baby needs every extra week possible to gain the weight is needs to survive healthfully. Because going into the last trimester a baby is nearly fully formed, most of the changing done in this last stage of pregnancy is weight gain. Because of the baby's growth, this last trimester doesn't allow it much room for movement in the uterus. He's sometimes only able to move his feet and hands, allowing him to suck his thumb. He is starting to move into the birth canal to prepare for delivery which can be a very uncomfortable position for mom. Not only is baby resting on mommy's bladder causing frequent bathroom breaks, but he sometimes rests on the lower spine, causing a great amount of lower back pain.

Baby will also become much more interactive in this final stage of pregnancy. He will be able to respond to loud noises and oftentimes will respond to soothing sounds, such as mother's voice. To prepare for this last stage of pregnancy it's important to ask many questions of the doctor and know what to expect from the little life growing inside you.