Bonding With Your Bump (3rd Trimester)

Make the Bond from Day One

From the very second that you see those two lines on the test bonding begins. Here are some tips on how to 'bond with your bump'.

The Third Trimester

During the final trimester you may find that your bump doesn't move quite as actively due the lack of space your baby now has. Your baby may well be head down and engaged to prepare for birth so this limits movement entirely. However, the kicks which you do receive are more likely to 'pack a punch' and can quite often feel uncomfortable. Try to remember that your little one isn't purposely trying to hurt you! They are simply trying to get comfy and let you know that they are there.

Remember to continue touching your bump, you may find that if you place an object (such as a remote control/ purse) on your belly that it may be suddenly flipped off by your little one! Way to go Bubba you are already playing football and you haven't even been born yet!

Your partner may also wish to bond with baby before birth, this is the ideal time for them to begin talking to and touching your baby bump. Why not ask your partner to read to your baby? This will help your baby to become associated with their Dads voice before they are even born.

During this final trimester your baby is preparing to be born into a whole new World, try to help bridge the gap between womb and worldly surroundings by offering them a common sound which they can associate with once they are in your arms. Whilst in the womb babies spend most of their time listening to the beating of your heart, this is a very soothing sound for them. Offer them an alternative sound before birth to listen to and become familiar with such as the sound of their cot mobile or the soothing melody of a musical toy which you may have bought for them. This way when they are born you can offer them something which they may be familiar with the sound of to relax them and remind them of 'life in the womb'.

Although you may not be offered ultrasound scans during your third trimester, there is always the option of booking a 4D scan. This is the perfect opportunity to get to know your baby before they are even born. 3D/4D scans can show an amazing amount of detail such as facial features and even hair! It is astounding to compare a 3D/4D scan picture with your newborns picture. You will be able to see just how picture perfect these scans are. Quite often you are able to take several members of family with you along to these scans, this can be a perfect day out for you all before bringing baby into the World.

Other Useful Articles

• Bonding With Your Bump (1st Trimester) (article date - 22-11-2009)
• Bonding With Your Bump (2nd Trimester) (article date - 22-11-2009)
• Bonding With Your Bump (3rd Trimester) (article date - 22-11-2009)
• Celebrate Pregnancy and Impending Motherhood (article date - 22-11-2009)