Source: bing.comTable of Contents
The Journey So Far
Congratulations mama, you’ve made it to 7 months into your pregnancy and your baby is growing quickly inside you! As you’re nearing the end of your 2nd trimester, you might be starting to feel like your baby is getting ready to make an appearance in the world. But what exactly is happening with your baby’s development at this stage?
The Developments of Your Baby
Your baby is now the size of a cauliflower, measuring around 15 inches long and weighing around 3 pounds. At this stage, they are developing their lungs and may even be able to breathe on their own if they were born prematurely. Your baby’s brain is also growing and developing rapidly, with around 100 billion nerve cells now formed. They’re also starting to develop their own sleeping patterns, with sleep cycles starting to form.
Physical Changes
Your baby is starting to fill out and their skin now looks more like a newborn’s, although it is still wrinkly and red. Fat is now building up under the skin and they are starting to look more like a human baby. They can now open and close their eyes and their sense of touch is becoming more developed. They’re also starting to develop their sucking and swallowing reflexes in preparation for breastfeeding or bottle feeding.
Mom’s Changes
As your baby continues to grow and develop, you may experience some of the following symptoms:
- Increased back pain
- Feeling tired more easily
- Heartburn
- Shortness of breath
- Swollen feet and ankles
It’s important to stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and get plenty of rest while you’re pregnant.
What To Do During This Stage
As you get closer to your due date, you may want to start preparing for your baby’s arrival. Here are some things you can do during this stage:
- Attend childbirth classes
- Start packing your hospital bag
- Prepare your home for your new arrival
- Research breastfeeding or bottle feeding
- Think about your birth plan and discuss it with your healthcare provider
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can my baby hear me at this stage?
A: Yes, your baby’s hearing is now well developed and they can hear sounds from outside the womb.
Q: Is it safe to dye my hair while pregnant?
A: The chemicals in hair dye can be absorbed into your bloodstream, so it’s best to avoid hair dye during pregnancy. If you do decide to dye your hair, wait until after the first trimester and make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area.
Q: Can I still exercise during pregnancy?
A: Yes, it’s important to stay active during pregnancy, but make sure you talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine.
Q: When should I start looking for a pediatrician?
A: It’s a good idea to start researching pediatricians around 28-30 weeks pregnant, and make a decision around 34 weeks pregnant.
Q: Can I travel during the 7th month of pregnancy?
A: It’s generally safe to travel during the 2nd trimester, but it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider first and avoid long flights or trips to areas with a high risk of disease.
In conclusion, pregnancy is an amazing journey, and the developments of your baby during the 7th month are truly remarkable. Take good care of yourself and your growing baby, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. You’re doing great mama!