What is a common fear experienced by pregnant women in the third trimester?

During the third trimester of pregnancy, many women often begin to feel more focused on the impending arrival of their baby and may experience heightened anxiety about the baby's health and development. The fear of possible defects in the baby is common because this stage brings increased awareness of any risks that could impact both the mother and the child.

This concern is influenced by various factors, such as prenatal testing results, the physical changes occurring in the body, and the overwhelming responsibility of bringing a new life into the world. Women may worry about genetic disorders or congenital issues that could arise and potentially affect their newborn. This fear reflects a natural maternal instinct to protect the baby and ensure a healthy outcome.

In contrast, fears related to emaciation, miscarriage, and postpartum depression typically do not align with the third trimester context. As the pregnancy progresses, miscarriage is less of a concern, whereas postpartum depression is more relevant after delivery. The fear of emaciation is generally not a common worry among pregnant women, especially during a time when they are expected to gain weight to support the developing fetus.