As you enter the third trimester of pregnancy, you’re getting closer to one of life’s most beautiful milestones: meeting your baby. This final stretch can bring a mix of excitement, anticipation, and some unexpected physical changes.

While symptoms like fatigue, frequent urination, and trouble sleeping are common, there are also some lesser-known third trimester symptoms that may catch you off guard. Knowing what to expect (and when to call your doctor) can help you feel more prepared and confident during these final weeks.

Here are some surprising third trimester symptoms that are completely normal but not often talked about.

1. Lightning Crotch: Sharp Pelvic Pain in Late Pregnancy

If you suddenly feel a sharp, electric jolt in your pelvic area, you’re likely experiencing what's nicknamed “lightning crotch.” This is caused by your baby pressing on nerves as they move deeper into your pelvis. While it can be startling, it’s harmless.

Try changing positions, stretching, or taking a warm bath to ease the discomfort.

2. Itchy Belly, Arms, and Legs: Is It Normal or Something More?

Itchy skin during pregnancy (especially on your belly, thighs, or breasts) is often caused by skin stretching and dryness. Moisturizers and staying hydrated can help soothe mild itching.

However, intense itching, especially on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet, could be a sign of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), a liver condition that requires medical attention.

Another condition to watch for is PUPPP (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy), which causes an itchy rash but is not harmful to your baby.

Always talk to your doctor if the itching becomes severe or widespread.

3. Leaky Breasts Before Birth: What Is Colostrum?

Noticing a milky or yellowish fluid leaking from your breasts? That’s called colostrum, the nutrient-rich “first milk” your body produces in preparation for breastfeeding.

This is completely normal in the third trimester and a good sign that your body is getting ready to nourish your newborn.

4. Pelvic Pressure and the Pregnancy Waddle

As your baby “drops” lower into your pelvis (a process called lightening), you might feel increased pelvic pressure or heaviness. This makes it harder to walk normally, hence the pregnancy waddle.

Though it may be uncomfortable, it’s a natural part of your body preparing for labor.

5. Craving Non-Food Items? You Might Have Pica

Craving ice, chalk, dirt, or even soap? You could be experiencing pica, a condition where pregnant individuals crave non-food substances. This is more common in the third trimester and can be linked to nutrient deficiencies, especially low iron levels.

If you’re experiencing unusual cravings, talk to your doctor. A simple blood test can help check for deficiencies and guide safe nutritional support.

When to Call Your Healthcare Provider in the Third Trimester

While most third trimester symptoms are normal, there are a few warning signs you shouldn’t ignore. Call your doctor or midwife if you experience:

• Severe or persistent headaches

• Sudden swelling in the face, hands, or legs

• Vision changes (blurry vision, spots, or flashing lights)

• Decreased fetal movement

• Bleeding or leaking amniotic fluid

These could be signs of conditions like pre-eclampsia or preterm labor and should be evaluated right away.

Embracing the Final Weeks of Pregnancy

The third trimester is a time of rapid change for both you and your baby. Each symptom, even the strange or surprising ones, is part of your body’s incredible preparation for birth.

Understanding what’s normal and when to reach out for help can make these final weeks a little easier to navigate and bring peace of mind as you prepare to welcome your baby.