Source: bing.comTable of Contents
Introduction
Congratulations! You’ve made it to week 39 of your pregnancy, and soon your little bundle of joy will be making their grand entrance into the world. At this stage, your baby is fully developed and is just waiting for the right time to make their appearance. Let’s take a closer look at the amazing things happening during the baby development stages at 39 weeks.
Physical Development
At this stage, your baby weighs around 7 to 8 pounds and is about 19 to 21 inches long. Their head is now the same circumference as their abdomen, and their bones have become stronger. Your baby’s lungs are now fully developed and ready to breathe on their own. Furthermore, their skin has lost its transparency and has become pinkish in color. Lastly, your baby’s liver and kidneys are now fully functional.
Sensory Development
Your baby’s senses are well developed by 39 weeks. They can hear and recognize voices, and are able to discern between different sounds. Moreover, they can see light and dark and can follow movements with their eyes. Additionally, your baby can taste sweet and bitter flavors and even gets hiccups when they swallow amniotic fluid.
Behavioral Development
At this stage, your baby spends most of their time sleeping, as they prepare for their grand entrance into the world. However, they can also engage in some activities such as sucking their thumb and grabbing their feet. Furthermore, they can respond to touch and can even turn their head towards the source of the touch.
What to Expect During Delivery
During delivery, your baby will be able to rotate their head downwards so that they can pass through the birth canal. Moreover, once they are delivered, they will take their first breath and begin crying. The skin on their feet will also be tested for reflexes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to deliver at 39 weeks?
A: Yes, it is generally safe to deliver at 39 weeks, as your baby is fully developed by then. However, your doctor may advise you to wait a little longer if there are any concerns.
Q: How can I prepare for delivery at 39 weeks?
A: You can prepare by packing your hospital bag, discussing a birth plan with your doctor, and making arrangements for someone to take care of your other children and pets while you are in the hospital.
Q: What happens if my baby is overdue?
A: If your baby is overdue, your doctor may induce labor or recommend a C-section to ensure your baby’s safety.
Q: What are the signs that I am going into labor?
A: The signs of labor include contractions, lower back pain, a bloody show, and the rupturing of the amniotic sac.
Q: How can I ease the pain of labor?
A: You can ease the pain of labor by using relaxation techniques, taking a warm bath, using breathing techniques, and receiving pain medication if necessary.
In conclusion, the baby development stages at 39 weeks are a time of great excitement and anticipation. Your baby is fully developed and is just waiting to make their grand entrance into the world. We hope this article has given you a better understanding of what to expect during this stage of your pregnancy. Good luck and congratulations on your soon-to-be addition to the family!