Source: bing.comTable of Contents
Introduction
Congratulations, mama! You’re now at the 39th week of pregnancy, which means you’re only a week away from meeting your little one. At this stage, your baby has developed so much and is nearly fully developed. It’s an exciting time for both you and your baby.
Baby’s Development
At 39 weeks of pregnancy, your baby is roughly the size of a small pumpkin, measuring around 19-20 inches in length and weighing about 7-8 pounds. Your baby’s organs are fully developed, and the lungs are now ready for the outside world.Your baby’s head is likely to be down, ready for birth. If it’s not in the right position, your healthcare provider may need to perform a procedure called external cephalic version (ECV) to help turn your baby’s head down.Your baby’s hair and nails are now long enough, and the hair may be as long as two inches. The vernix caseosa, the white, waxy coating that protected your baby’s skin from the amniotic fluid, has mostly disappeared by now, but some babies may still have it when born.Inside the womb, your baby is still moving around, but the movements may not be as sudden or as powerful as they were a few weeks ago due to the limited space. You may notice that your baby seems to be settling into his or her birth position.
Changes in Your Body
At this point, you may be feeling very uncomfortable with your large belly and the weight of your baby. You may be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions, which are painless and irregular contractions that help prepare your uterus for labor.Your cervix is starting to prepare for labor by thinning out and dilating. Your healthcare provider will likely check your cervix during your prenatal visits to see if any changes have occurred.You may also notice an increase in vaginal discharge, as your body produces more mucus to keep the cervix moist and protected from infection.
What to Expect During Your Prenatal Visit
At your 39th week prenatal visit, your healthcare provider will check your blood pressure, urine, and weight. They will also likely check the position of your baby and the dilation and effacement of your cervix.If your cervix is not dilated or effaced, your healthcare provider may discuss induction of labor with you. They may also discuss monitoring your baby’s heart rate and the possibility of a Cesarean delivery if necessary.
Conclusion
At 39 weeks of pregnancy, your baby is now fully developed and ready to enter the world. You may be feeling a mix of emotions, including excitement, nervousness, and anticipation. Remember to take care of yourself during this time and trust that your body is working to bring your baby safely into the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I do if I think I’m in labor?
A: Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you are experiencing contractions that are regular and painful or if your water breaks.
Q: What can I do to prepare for labor and delivery?
A: Attend childbirth classes, create a birth plan, practice relaxation and breathing techniques, and discuss pain management options with your healthcare provider.
Q: Is it normal to be anxious about labor and delivery?
A: Yes, it’s normal to feel anxious about the unknown. Talk to your healthcare provider and loved ones for support and reassurance.
Q: Can I still have sex at 39 weeks pregnant?
A: It’s generally safe to have sex during pregnancy unless your healthcare provider advises against it due to a medical condition or risk of preterm labor.
Q: How can I best take care of myself during the final weeks of pregnancy?
A: Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, exercise as recommended by your healthcare provider, and attend prenatal appointments.