Source: bing.comTable of Contents
What’s Happening with Your Baby?
Congratulations mama! You are in the final stretch of your pregnancy journey. At 38 weeks and 5 days, your baby is about the size of a watermelon, weighing around 7 pounds and measuring approximately 20 inches long. At this stage of development, your baby’s lungs are fully matured, and he/she may take some practice breaths in preparation for their big arrival. The digestive system is also functioning, and your baby is swallowing amniotic fluid to prepare for their first meal outside the womb. The liver and kidneys are also fully developed and ready to take over their important roles once the baby is born. Your baby’s head may have engaged in your pelvis, which means they are in a head-down position and ready for birth. However, not all babies engage in the pelvis until labor begins, so don’t worry if your baby hasn’t yet.
What Changes are You Experiencing?
As the due date approaches, you may be feeling increasingly uncomfortable. Your baby is growing and taking up more space, which can lead to back pain, pelvic pressure, and difficulty sleeping. You may also experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions that help prepare the uterus for labor.On the bright side, you may feel a sense of excitement and anticipation as you prepare to meet your little one. Nesting instincts may kick in, leading you to clean, organize, and prepare for the arrival of your baby.
What Should You be Doing?
As you approach your due date, it’s important to stay vigilant about any signs of labor. Keep an eye out for contractions that become more frequent and intense, a gush of fluid from your vagina, or any vaginal bleeding. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to head to the hospital or contact your healthcare provider.You can also use this time to prepare for your baby’s arrival. Pack your hospital bag, install a car seat, and stock up on baby essentials like diapers and wipes. Take time to relax and rest, as your baby’s arrival is just around the corner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I still exercise at 38 weeks and 5 days pregnant?
A: It’s important to listen to your body and avoid any strenuous exercise. However, light exercise like walking or prenatal yoga can help prepare your body for labor.
Q: Can I still have sex at 38 weeks and 5 days pregnant?
A: As long as your healthcare provider has given you the green light, sex is safe and can even help jumpstart labor.
Q: How do I know if my water has broken?
A: If you experience a gush of fluid from your vagina, or if you notice a continuous trickle of fluid, it’s possible that your water has broken. Contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Q: Is it safe to have a home birth?
A: While home birth is a valid option for some women, it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider and ensure that you have a trained and experienced midwife or doula present.
Q: When should I go to the hospital?
A: If you experience contractions that become more frequent and intense, a gush of fluid from your vagina, or any vaginal bleeding, it’s time to head to the hospital or contact your healthcare provider.