Third Trimester Tips: 4 Ways to Boost Your Energy in the Home Stretch

As you enter the home stretch of your pregnancy, keeping your energy up becomes increasingly challenging. We get it—because we’ve been there. It’s why we’ve honed in on proven strategies to help you stay revitalised during the third trimester.

1. Soothing Perineal Massage Oil

Perineal massage, beginning at 34 weeks, is an excellent method for promoting deep relaxation and enhancing energy levels. Surprisingly, this technique does more than just calm the mind; it increases blood flow, which in turn boosts overall energy. Plus, when used in conjunction with soothing oils, it improves the skin’s flexibility and protects against tears and cuts during childbirth.

2. Sex and Orgasms

Sex during this time isn’t solely for intimacy; and no, you won’t poke your baby. Sex is a powerful remedy to the final stages of pregnancy. Orgasming in the third trimester has been shown to boost mood, improve body image, enhance relaxation and sleep quality, lower blood pressure, increase bonding, and improve daily energy (it is exercise after all).

Due to heightened blood flow to the pelvic region, you may also experience increased sensitivity, leading to more intense orgasms. For an extra feel-good boost, consider introducing a toy, either solo or with a partner.

3. Keep Taking Your Prenatal Vitamins

Don’t stop taking your prenatals just yet! Now more than ever, you’ll want your vitamins to be easy to absorb and in easy-to-swallow capsules. Exploring your iron and vitamin B levels with your healthcare provider is always worthwhile in Trimester 3, as these nutrients are known to support energy levels and enhance energy metabolism, which can start to feel low right about now.

4. Energy-Boosting Meal Ideas

You’re eating for two now more than ever. Incorporating nutrient-dense foods into your diet is crucial for maintaining sustained energy levels and mood at this point in your pregnancy. A great option for a quick and nutritious energy boost is homemade banana bread, which is not only super delicious but loaded with vitamins your body needs.

Let’s break down the benefits:

• Bananas: Packed with potassium and natural sugars for a quick energy release.
• Dates: Rich in fibre, potassium, iron, and natural sugars.
• Chia Seeds: Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, contributing to healthy digestion and overall vitality.
• Eggs: A source of high-quality protein and fats, helping to keep you satisfied for longer.
• Wholemeal Flour: With its high fibre and nutrient profile, wholemeal flour ensures a consistent energy supply.
• Peanut Butter: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s incredibly satiating (and of course delicious).

Banana Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas (about 1 1/2 cups mashed)
• 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup dates, pitted and chopped
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 cups wholemeal flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Method:

1. Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. Mash the bananas: In a large bowl, thoroughly mash the bananas.
3. Mix wet ingredients: Add the melted butter, peanut butter, dates, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas and mix well.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the wholemeal flour, chia seeds, salt, sugar, and baking soda.
5. Blend the mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the batter is smooth.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.