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Weeks 37-39: The Home Stretch
Congratulations, mama! You’ve made it to the final stretch of your pregnancy, and your little one will soon be in your arms. At 39 weeks, your baby is considered full-term and ready for birth. Here’s what you can expect in the last few weeks of pregnancy:
Baby’s Development
At this point, your baby is about the size of a watermelon and weighs around 7-8 pounds. Their lungs are fully developed and ready to breathe air, and their digestive system is also fully mature. Your baby’s head may be engaged in your pelvis, which means they’ve dropped lower in preparation for birth. In the last few weeks, your baby will also continue to gain weight and put on more fat, which will help keep them warm outside the womb.
Your Body
As you approach your due date, you may start to experience some signs that labor is imminent. These can include Braxton Hicks contractions, which are mild and irregular contractions that help your body prepare for labor. You may also notice that your cervix is beginning to thin and dilate in preparation for birth. Other signs of impending labor can include a “bloody show” (when the mucus plug that seals your cervix comes out), an increase in vaginal discharge, and a nesting instinct where you feel the need to clean and organize everything in sight.
What You Can Do
In the last few weeks of pregnancy, it’s important to take care of yourself and prepare for your baby’s arrival. Make sure you’re getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated, and eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables. You can also start packing your hospital bag and making arrangements for childcare and postpartum support.
As you approach your due date, it’s a good idea to discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider and make sure you understand the signs of labor and when to call your provider or go to the hospital. You may also want to take a childbirth class or hire a doula as additional support during labor and delivery.
Conclusion
In the last few weeks of pregnancy, your baby is fully developed and ready to be born. As you prepare for their arrival, make sure you’re taking care of yourself and staying informed about what to expect during labor and delivery. With a little preparation and support, you’ll be ready to welcome your new bundle of joy into the world!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack in my hospital bag?
Your hospital bag should include items like comfortable clothing, toiletries, snacks, and a camera or phone to capture memories of your baby’s arrival. You may also want to pack some items for your baby, such as a going-home outfit and a car seat to take them home in.
What are the signs of labor?
Signs of impending labor can include contractions, a “bloody show,” an increase in vaginal discharge, and a nesting instinct. It’s important to discuss the signs of labor with your healthcare provider and know when to call them or go to the hospital.
What is a doula?
A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional and physical support to women during childbirth. They can help you create a birth plan, provide comfort measures during labor, and advocate for your needs and wishes during the birth process.
How can I prepare for postpartum recovery?
Preparing for postpartum recovery can involve things like stocking up on supplies (such as pads, nipple cream, and pain relief medication), arranging for help with childcare and household tasks, and making sure you have a support system in place for emotional and physical support during the first few weeks after birth.
What can I expect during a newborn’s first few weeks of life?
During a newborn’s first few weeks of life, they’ll sleep a lot (up to 18 hours a day), eat frequently (every 2-3 hours), and require lots of diaper changes. You may also notice that your baby is fussy or colicky, which is normal. It’s important to take care of yourself during this time and ask for help from family and friends.