Third trimester pregnancy update

Asos maternity petite dress (old), Shop Moss rose earrings (custom sized)
pregnant bump photo 13 weeks
extra petite pregnancy bump photo 20 weeks second trimester

extra petite pregnancy photo third trimester
pregnancy weekly bump photos 28 weeks third trimester

pregnant bump progress photos third trimester 31 weeks
And just like that, the third trimester crept up on us! I shared here that we’ll be welcoming a baby girl, and she already has dad wrapped around her little finger. Nick talks to my belly first thing each morning and reads us a bedtime story every night. Things are starting to feel quite real, and I’d be lying if I said we weren’t a little nervous and scared of what’s to come!

I’m realizing in hindsight that the second trimester was the honeymoon phase. It’s when first trimester symptoms tend to subside (for me, at least), your energy is back, and you generally feel pretty cute sporting a growing bump! Fellow moms-to-be, be sure to soak in this middle period and take lots of photos ; )

weight gain

Since several of you have asked, I started at around 94 lbs and gained 20 so far. I “popped” around months 5 to 6 and the bump’s been growing quickly since. Baby is only about 3.5 pounds, so the other weight is her “house,” fluids, and a lot of blood flow and padding all around! I’ve heard from many other expecting mamas, concerned about too little or too much weight gain (or about their bump sizes). Every pregnancy is unique, and we all carry differently and gain weight at different paces. Try to embrace the changes as they come (despite unwarranted commentary from others – more on that below), and I wouldn’t be concerned unless your doctor is!

Current Maternity Favorites
  • Below the bump underwear. I tried a few different brands, and these were my favorite with a nice and low front dip! So much more comfortable than just sizing up on regular underwear. Size S has worked for me from the second trimester onwards.
  • Generously cushioned sandals (read my review; runs wide). I don’t care that these look a little orthopedic … they’ve been a godsend for tired and sometimes swollen feet. Have heard SO much great feedback from you guys on ’em as well!
  • Bra band extender. These are hanging on their last hook now, but have been a bra-saver since my first trimester.
  • Striped 3/4 sleeve dress (see on me). Professional enough for work, but also cute and quite comfy for casual wear! This dress would be a perfect fit on someone a little taller, since the bump ruching hits a few inches too low on me (I’m 5′ feet). I forgot to return this, but it worked out as I keep reaching for it now despite the loose hip area!
  • Cropped active pants (see on me). These still fit and have held up nicely after 6 months of rigorous wear (gym, travel, hiking, errands), so are well worth the price IMO. Black is most versatile for me, but FYI Amazon has grey on major sale!
  • Floral flared dress (see on me). My go-to when I need to dress up or just want to feel pretty! ASOS tends to run small compared to US brands. The size 2 maternity fit me well around 25-28 weeks and is now very snug in the torso.
  • Lounging leggings (see on me). Super comfy and an absolute steal for $8. Note these are a thin cotton legging, compared to the thicker active pant mentioned above.
Sciatica pain

I had shooting pains in my hip that grew increasingly worse (likely from my expanding uterus pressing on a nerve), until one day I woke up and could barely move. Nick stayed home to carry me to & from the bathroom, and I thought I was done for for! I called my OB and she simply recommended looking up stretches for sciatica on YouTube, and easing in some workouts to strengthen my hip and pelvic area.

Working Out

After doing sciatica stretches at least twice a day (simple child’s pose can feel amazing!), occasional prenatal yoga, and working out 2 to 3 times a week, the difference has been incredible. I did not work out throughout IVF and my first trimester, enjoyed getting back into it during my second trimester, but now it’s dreadfully hard motivating myself to continue into the third trimester! However I know staying fit can only help, with overall health as well as labor and recovery. Since I’ve been getting a lot of questions on workouts, my personal trainer helped me record a few simple strengthening moves which I’ve saved to my Instagram profile (under the dumbbell icon, viewable only on mobile phones).

Sleep & Baby Movements

I’m thankful for no pregnancy complications, but rolling over feels like an Olympic sport these days! And I love how despite the loud grunts, groans and thuds coming from my side of the bed all night, Nick snoozes soundly and obliviously through it all.

I was so giddy after feeling the first baby flutters. I was completely unaware how strong the movements would get! Her tumbles and kicks wake me up a few times each night, and I find my belly poking out in the oddest angles. Although I complain about the lack of sleep, feeling these movements are my most favorite thing in the world right now.

Body image & Things people say

If you haven’t seen this IG post yet, give the top comments a read as they had me cracking up! I must’ve crossed over some threshold recently, because the daily commentary I get now range from “OMG I thought *so & so* was huge until I saw you!” (accompanied by wide eyes and a gaping mouth) to “are you carrying multiples?” to social media messages about “getting thick.” Sure, some of these may sting initially, but remembering the little growing life inside makes all of these bodily changes worth it and more.

Pregnant Wife Observations

pregnant wife symptoms third trimester
dads mens view on pregnancy

Leaving you guys with the latest notes from Nick’s pregnancy diary, per popular request. As our journey continues, you can follow along on his Instagram or Facebook for more “observations,” new dad perspectives, and less-than-flattering photos of me!

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41 Comments

  1. Nikki Rodriguez wrote:

    Thank you for sharing and I am so very happy for you! Your pregnancy photos are beautiful. I love reading your updates. Wishing you safe and speedy delivery.

    Posted 7.16.18 Reply
  2. Martha wrote:

    I love reading your updates! You are beautiful! It is so hard when you are a petite person dealing with the pregnancy changes, but you are doing wonderful.

    Posted 7.15.18 Reply
  3. Jean P. wrote:

    Hi Jean, I am an occasional visitor to your blog for the past several years. I am so happy for you and Nick. My “baby girl” is now 14!

    Posted 7.7.18 Reply
  4. Birdie wrote:

    Your husband’s observations cracked me up! Reminds me of my husband’s reactions when I had our girls 🙂 Wishing you safe and speedy delivery!

    Posted 7.5.18 Reply
  5. Maddy wrote:

    Hello Jean,

    I can totally relate to you. I am also extra petite and an expecting mama like you – currently on my 26th weeks (just few weeks behind you). I love seeing pregnancy updates from you and your husband as it help me foreshadow what’s about to come for me (although every pregnancy is different). I also enjoy looking at your fashion posts as take inspiration from your chic maternity style. Just a random question as an extra petite mama like you, do you have any suggestions/preference for a baby stroller that is petite friendly? Most of the strollers that I find are not design with adjustable hand bar and I find it too high when I push it. Not sure if it is the same concern for you, but would really appreciate if you could share your thoughts about it. Thank you in advance!

    Posted 7.4.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Hi Maddy – congrats and I’m excited to be sharing in on this journey together! I think we’re going to go with UPPAbaby after trying out a bunch. I didn’t find any to be particularly too high, but maybe only time will tell after using it.

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
  6. Gillian King wrote:

    So happy for you! Every pregnancy is indeed different. I gained 80lbs with my pregnancy; but it all came off within a year and thank goodness no stretch marks. My OBGYN was absolutely amazed.

    Posted 7.4.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Hi Gillian ~ haha you might be the fourth or fifth mama I heard from recently who said they gained 80lbs or more during pregnancy, and I never ever would’ve guessed looking at them now. Your bodies are incredible!

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
  7. Laticia Correa wrote:

    I just LOVE receiving these pregnancy updates from you and Nick. It’s been a long emotional journey for the two of you and watching this joyful time in your life has been both a privilege and a blessing! Your positive attitude on things people say is inspiring (although I’m quite surprised as how “ballsy” some women get…). Thank you for letting us share this exciting chapter with the three of you ❤️

    Posted 7.4.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      You’re so sweet, Laticia, we always love hearing from you as well! xx

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
  8. Kathy wrote:

    We’re in this together! Baby girl is currently 26 weeks👶🏻 Keep up with the exercise regimen. The benefits are worth it🌺😅

    Posted 7.4.18 Reply
  9. Kelcy wrote:

    Time really flies. I’m glad you’re enjoying every moment.

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
  10. Susan wrote:

    Fellow FTM (38 weeks tomorrow) and longtime follower! Started having horrible sciatica pain around 3rd trimester too. I rolled over in bed and thought I threw out my back. Started wearing maternity shape wear (belly bandit thigh disguise) under my dresses to hold up the bump and pain is completely gone. Hope that helps!!

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      You’re in the final stretch, mama! Hang in there. I’m a little scared to think what 38 weeks feels like ; ) I got a support band and haven’t tried it yet (so so hot these days I am hating extra layers and thingiemabobs), but if it doesn’t help I’ll look into the belly bandit.

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
  11. Salina wrote:

    Thank you for sharing and I am so very happy for you! Your preganancy photos are beautiful how do you manage to stay in the same/similar angle and distance. Is there tape on the floor to help with posing or something?

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Thank you, Salina! I just try to stand in the same spot each time (but tape would help!) and use a tripod also in approx. the same place each time.

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
  12. Janki wrote:

    I think the biggest surprise for me when pregnant was how you’re part of the “public domain”. Everyone is an undercover Ob/Gyn and will comment on your size, the baby, your eating habits. If you had any other issue people politely stay quiet but when pregnant, it’s all fair game.
    I will give you another heads up, tertiary people(coworkers, friends of friends) around you will be pestering you about why you haven’t had the baby yet. It’s like mentally they can’t handle a 40 week gestation period and are basically done caring around 36 weeks. Lol. As long as I didn’t get touched, I was ok.
    Enjoy this time! You look great. And don’t let anyone pressure you into getting “back in shape” too soon. Motherhood changes some bodies and that’s totally ok and normal. It’s changed me mentally so why wouldn’t it change me physically too?
    So great to read your updates. I feel like I know you and Nick so well after following your blog.
    Xoxo

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Always love hearing from you, Janki! Hope you and the family are doing well. And gosh .. “public domain” is perfectly put. And it looks like it only intensifies after baby is born ; )

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
  13. May wrote:

    I love reading your pregnancy diary. It seriously cracks me up every time!

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
  14. Kayla wrote:

    I love your pregnancy posts SO MUCH! I am petite and right behind you at 23 weeks pregnant. So every time you post about your fashion, I’m all over it! 🙂 I’m so glad you’re feeling well. Take care and keep posting!
    Kayla

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Yay, congrats Kayla!! How exciting. Hope you’re feeling well, too, mama : )

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
  15. Amanda Warren wrote:

    I don’t miss those sleepless, uncomfortable nights, but I do miss baby’s movements. With my last child, I had the weirdest craving: unreconstituted blue Gatorade powder. I would eat it by the spoonful. 😬 That craving must have affected my child. She loves to sneak into the pantry and eat sugar and salt. 🤢
    Good luck with everything!

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Too funny – first time I’ve heard of that one! But I’m guessing it might taste just like those sour pixie straws ; )

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
  16. Doreen's Style Diary wrote:

    I can’t believe you’re at 3rd trimester already. I’m sorry you’re experiencing sciatica pain. I also started experiencing it around 3rd trimester. The daily stretches helped me deal with it. I still have mild sciatica pain from time to time. I love reading Nick’s pregnancy journal. It’s hilarious. Can you please do a blog post for your pregnancy workout? I saw it on your story and thought they were great workouts.

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
  17. Dianne wrote:

    I love all your taste from fashion to food to interior design. And since I’m on the same girl pregnancy journey, just wondering if I’ll be able to draw some inspiration on your nursery. Will you be doing a nursery reveal ?

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Hi Dianne – congrats to you, how exciting!! Our home is very small so we don’t have a spare room to make into a nursery. We’ll be adding a few items to our bedroom so baby can sleep in there until we can find a new place.

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
      • Christina wrote:

        Congrats, Jean and Nick! I’m so happy for you both.

        As a new mom, looking back, a nursery was not needed right away. We setup the nursery, but it’s wasn’t used for months as my baby girl slept in a bassinet in our room (much more convenient for night feedings and diaper changes btw).

        I’m sure a lot of friends and family have provided advice. Some advice I wished I knew as a first-time mom is: if breast-feeding, learn the techniques and ways to relief breast fullness/pain, if pumping do research and get a good pump, know the E.A.S.Y routine and baby’s awake windows/sleepy cues, and most of all take care of yourself. Wishing you both the best on this new and exciting journey!

        Posted 7.13.18 Reply
  18. Bethany wrote:

    Your husband is hysterical!

    Also, you look beautiful!

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
  19. Jen wrote:

    Oh the comments about weight gain [insert eye roll]. I started at 97 and ended at 117 “you need to eat!” “you need to feed that baby!” Baby came out at 7.5 pounds 😉

    Hang in there mommy! You are almost there! Been reading your blog for years and I am so excited for you <3

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Amazing! Haha yes … the weight shaming definitely goes both ways.

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
  20. April G. wrote:

    Nick’s commentary is hilarious! 😂

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
  21. Michael @ Mile in My Glasses wrote:

    I love love love your updates Jean, they always make me so excited for you!

    I hope you’re having a lovely Tuesday!

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
  22. Daniah Khan wrote:

    Thank you for sharing your journey! It has been inspiring to follow. My best friend is in her second trimester right now. Are there any products or things that have helped make your pregnancy more comfortable? I want to make a cute little care package and send it her way.

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      How thoughtful of you! I love my memory foam wedge pillow from Hicapop (on amazon), and little things like the bra band extenders and maternity undies linked above have been must haves that I can’t have enough of (they’re always in the wash or lost somewhere when I need it)! Also, Pedag insole cushions (also sold on amazon) were recommended to me by my hairdresser who needs comfy shoes for being on her feet all day while pregnant!

      Posted 7.6.18 Reply
  23. YZ Chan wrote:

    Wow, can’t believe you’re in your third trimester already! Excited for you and Nick as you embark on this incredible journey. Wishing you all the best. x

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
  24. Rena wrote:

    You are so beautiful and it is so cute how he talks already with your baby. All the best to you!
    xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
  25. Petite Teacher wrote:

    Dear Jean. I had to smile when I read your sentence ” rolling over feels like an Olympic sport these days”. How recognisable! Many things about pregnancies you forget over the years. This rolling over isn’t one of those! Love, Lieske

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
  26. Elizabeth T. wrote:

    Aww, I hope the pain isn’t as severe 🙁 And I’ve been loving both yours and Nick’s updates (especially all of the little diary entries that Nick’s been making)!

    Posted 7.3.18 Reply
  27. Roses for Fridays | by mia wrote:

    Hang in there Beautiful Mana to be, can’t wait to welcome an Angel a bundle of Joy into this world soon!

    Posted 7.2.18 Reply
  28. Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog wrote:

    Jean, I love your positive attitude to the pregnancy! Good to read that things are coming along great! 🙂 ❤️

    Posted 7.2.18 Reply
  29. Charlie wrote:

    Every time I read one of your updates it makes my heart so happy for you. I can’t wait to see your journey continue with your supportive husband and sweet little baby girl!

    XOXO
    Charlie

    Posted 7.2.18 Reply

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