Source: bing.comTable of Contents
What’s happening inside?
You’re finally at the end of your pregnancy journey, mom-to-be! At 38 weeks, your baby is considered full-term and ready to enter the world anytime now. Your little one is around 50 cm long and weighs close to 3 kg. They look plumper and healthier as they continue to store fat under their skin.Your baby’s lungs are fully developed, which means they can breathe on their own once they’re out of your womb. Their digestive system is also ready to take on breastmilk or formula. If you’re having a boy, his testicles are likely to have moved from his abdomen to his scrotum by now.
How about you?
You must be feeling quite heavy and uncomfortable at this stage. Your uterus is at its highest point, making it difficult for you to breathe deeply or bend over. If you haven’t gone into labor yet, you might be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions that can be mistaken for the real thing.Some moms-to-be report feeling a surge of energy before going into labor, while others feel extra tired and emotional. It’s important to stay hydrated, eat small and frequent meals, and get plenty of rest. If you haven’t packed your hospital bag yet, now’s the time to do it!
What to expect next?
You’re likely to meet your little bundle of joy very soon, if you haven’t already. It’s common for first-time moms to have a longer labor, while subsequent deliveries tend to be faster. You might have your contractions timed or your water break, signaling the start of labor.Once you’re in the hospital, your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and guide you through the delivery process. You might have a vaginal birth or a cesarean section, depending on your individual circumstances. Whatever your birth experience might be, remember to stay calm and trust your body.
Conclusion
At 38 weeks pregnant, your baby is fully developed and ready to enter the world. While you might feel heavy and uncomfortable, remember that the end of your pregnancy journey is just around the corner. Stay hydrated, eat well, and get plenty of rest to prepare for the big day. Trust your healthcare provider to guide you through the delivery process and embrace the joy of welcoming your little one into the world.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How long is a full-term pregnancy?
- What should I pack in my hospital bag?
- What are Braxton Hicks contractions?
- What if I go past my due date?
- Can I still have a vaginal birth if I had a cesarean section before?
A full-term pregnancy is around 40 weeks long.
You should pack clothes for you and your baby, toiletries, important documents, and any other items you might need during your hospital stay. Check with your healthcare provider for a specific list.
Braxton Hicks contractions are practice contractions that can start as early as the second trimester. They are generally painless and irregular, and can help prepare your body for labor.
Your healthcare provider will monitor you and your baby closely if you go past your due date. You might be offered induction of labor if there are any concerns about your baby’s health or if you’re experiencing any complications.
In some cases, it might be possible to have a vaginal birth after a previous cesarean section. This is called a VBAC, and depends on various factors such as the reason for your previous c-section and the position of your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information.