Which term describes the swelling that occurs in pregnant women, especially during the third trimester?

The term that accurately describes the swelling that occurs in pregnant women, particularly during the third trimester, is edema. During pregnancy, the body goes through various physiological changes, including increased blood volume and hormonal shifts that can lead to fluid retention. This is often most pronounced in the lower extremities, such as the legs and feet, and can also affect the hands and face. Edema can be a normal part of pregnancy; however, significant swelling or sudden changes could indicate complications, such as preeclampsia, which requires medical evaluation.

In contrast, ascites refers to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and is generally related to liver disease or other health issues rather than the typical swelling during pregnancy. Hemorrhage is related to bleeding and is a concerning medical condition that is not specifically tied to the normal changes of pregnancy. Hydration is a general term relating to fluid balance in the body and does not specifically address the swelling phenomenon in pregnancy. Thus, edema is the most appropriate term to describe the swelling experienced during this time.