Congratulations! You have made it to 36 weeks pregnant. Your baby has grown so much and is almost ready to make their appearance in the world. At this point, your baby is considered full-term and could be born any day now. In this article, we will discuss the developments of your baby at 36 weeks pregnant fetal development.
Table of Contents
Size of the Baby
At 36 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a large cabbage, weighing around 6 pounds and measuring about 18.5 inches in length. They will continue to gain weight and grow in size until they are born.
Physical Development
Your baby is continuing to develop their physical features at 36 weeks pregnant fetal development. Their skin is now becoming more plump and less wrinkled, and their nails are fully grown. Your baby’s brain development is also continuing, with their brain now weighing about 3/4 of a pound. They are also practicing their breathing movements, as their lungs are almost fully developed.
Position of the Baby
At 36 weeks pregnant, your baby is most likely in the head-down position, ready for delivery. However, some babies may still be in the breech position, with their bottom or legs down instead of their head. If your baby is still in the breech position, your doctor may recommend a procedure called an external cephalic version (ECV) to turn the baby into the head-down position.
Movement of the Baby
Your baby’s movements may begin to slow down at 36 weeks pregnant fetal development, as they have less room to move around in your uterus. However, you should still feel your baby moving regularly. If you notice a decrease in your baby’s movements, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Preparing for Delivery
At this point in your pregnancy, it’s important to start preparing for delivery. Make sure you have everything you need for the hospital, such as comfortable clothes, toiletries, and a car seat for the baby. You should also discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider, including pain management options and any preferences you have for delivery.
In conclusion, your baby has come a long way at 36 weeks pregnant fetal development. They are almost ready to make their appearance in the world and are continuing to develop and grow until that time. As you prepare for delivery, remember to take care of yourself and reach out to your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to give birth at 36 weeks?
A: Yes, at 36 weeks pregnant, your baby is considered full-term and is likely to be healthy and ready for delivery.
Q: What should I do if I notice a decrease in my baby’s movements?
A: Contact your healthcare provider immediately. A decrease in fetal movement could be a sign of a problem and should be checked out right away.
Q: How can I prepare for delivery?
A: Make sure you have everything you need for the hospital, discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider, and take care of yourself in the weeks leading up to delivery.
Q: What is an external cephalic version (ECV)?
A: An ECV is a procedure where a healthcare provider uses their hands to turn the baby from the breech position to the head-down position.
Q: What if my baby is still in the breech position at 36 weeks?
A: Your healthcare provider may recommend an ECV or a scheduled c-section if your baby is still in the breech position at 36 weeks pregnant fetal development.