What discomfort might a pregnant woman experience in the third trimester related to her breathing?

In the third trimester, many pregnant women experience shortness of breath and dyspnea due to several physiological changes that occur as the pregnancy progresses. As the fetus grows, the uterus expands, which can push against the diaphragm and limit lung expansion. This mechanical pressure decreases the amount of air that the lungs can take in, leading to a sensation of breathlessness. Additionally, hormonal changes and increased oxygen demands from both the mother and fetus further contribute to this feeling of shortness of breath.

This experience is often exacerbated when the pregnant woman is engaging in physical activity or even while resting, as the body is working harder to supply oxygen. It is important for health care providers to reassure expectant mothers that this is a common occurrence and help them find comfortable positions to alleviate the discomfort. In contrast, the other options may also occur but do not specifically address the direct respiratory effects that a woman may experience due to the physical changes of late pregnancy.