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Due date: February 3, 2001. Expecting Club for February 01 Printable Page of this Month |
April, 2000
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Prenatal vitamins are a good supplement both before and during pregnancy. |
Suggested reading: How to Get Pregnant, Sherman Silber |
It's a great time to consider a preconception visit with an OB or midwife. |
Check out the Trying to Conceive Bulletin Board |
1 week from Last Menstrual Period |
Folic acid and calcium are important now. Try leafy greens and skim milk. | |
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Certified midwives are a nice alternative to OB/GYN doctors. |
Family doctors are another choice. They take care of the entire family before, during, and long after the birth |
In 3-4 days, your ovaries will open, releasing an egg. Ovulation kits show positive 12-40 hours before ovulation. |
Egg travels down the fallopian tubes. |
A fun night begins the adventure... |
2 weeks from Last Menstrual Period Conception: egg and sperm meet, creating a single cell organism (the zygote). |
Zygote divides. A two-sided ball is formed. |
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Prepare for the psychological component of pregnancy. |
Zygote divides two, three, then four times. It's time to find Dr. Right. Here's how! |
The now 16-cell solid ball drops into uterus. Learn what to expect from your first visit to an Ob/Gyn. |
Fluid enters the ball, dividing it into two - one will be placenta, other the baby. |
Zygote implants on wall of uterus. Organism now called an embryo. |
3 wks from Last Menstrual Period 1 wk gestation Serum (blood) pregnancy test may show positive. |
Rapid growth - amniotic sac, amniotic cavity and yolk sac are developing. You might be experiencing some early symptoms of pregnancy? |
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Morning sickness could set in: your brain might not know you are pregnant, but your body sure does! Try this morning sickness survival guide! |
It's an important time to refrain from alcohol, drugs, medications, herbs and smoking. |
The placenta begins to form and blood circulates within it. Find out if caffeine is dangerous to your baby-to-be. |
Chorionic villi, the tissue lining the placenta begins to develop. Learn more about avoiding kitty litter. |
Give in to cues of exhaustion. Your body is working HARD! Suggested viewing: Miracle of Life |
Lunar Month 2 2 wks gestation, 4 wks from Last Menstrual Period Menstrual period due; home pregnancy test may show positive. |
"Primitive streak" (forerunner of brain and spinal cord) is evident. Baby's head is now detectable. |
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A groove forms in primitive streak setting stage for three layers of tissue: ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm. |
Ectoderm will form skin, hair, lining of ear, nose, mouth, glands and nervous system. For inspiration watch The First Nine Months. |
From the mesoderm, baby will develop muscles, bones, blood cells, heart, lungs, excretory and reproductive systems. |
From the endoderm, baby will develop lungs, tongue, glands, bladder and digestive tract. |
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Next 10-30 days are crucial in nervous system and heart development. Stop smoking, and drink lots of fluid. |
3 wks gestation 5 wks from Last Menstrual Period Early heart beats. Facial features and lung buds begin to form. |
Hello in there! Early evidence of eyes and inner ears. Cynics says it doesn't matter but singing to baby is fun. | ||||
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Nerual tube (later known as spinal cord) begins to fuse. You might want more ideas for a healthy diet! |
You may experience an increase in vaginal discharge. Contact your provider if it causes burning, itching, or odor. Do not douche. |
Tiny buds that will form the arms appear. It may be time to tell the family! Here are some helpful hints. |
Lower limb buds appear. Eyes, liver and digestive system begin to form. 10 questions to help you find the right hospital. |
You may need to "pee" a lot now -- it's due to improved metabolism and your growing uterus. Other symptoms may be: fatigue, nausea, and breast tenderness. |
4 wks gestation 6 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length of embryo measures 4 mm. |
Abdominal ultrasound can detect gestational sac. Come join an Expecting Club. :) |
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Baby's eye lens pits, optic cups and nasal pits begin to form. Is it possible to have a miscarriage with no bleeding and no cramping? |
Primitive mouth appears; first prenatal visit in next few days. |
Baby's arms look like paddles. Eat lots of protein (soy is good). |
Length of embryo is now 7mm. You may be feeling sick.Don't let nausea run your life! |
The head is now much larger than trunk. Foot plates present. |
5 wk gestation, 7 wk from Last Menstrual Period Ultrasound can now reliably detect fetal heart. Embryo is now 8 mm long. |
Oral and nasal cavities forming. Cerebellum and spleen begin to develop. Choose a provider who fits your philosophy, insurance, and health status. |
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Head to rump is now 9 mm. Aspirin, medications, and even vitamins can be harmful. Check with provider before taking. |
Baby's upper lip formed. Exercise and short breaks at work ease fatigue. Suggested resource: Dennis Austin Pregnancy Workout Video |
Embryo is now 10 mm long. Cramping is normal throughout pregnancy as the uterus contacts and enlarges. Check with provider if pain becomes severe. |
Baby's upper limbs bend at elbow; external ear beginning to form. Find out the risks of air travel and hair coloring? |
Digital rays (early fingers) developing. Your hormones may cause moodiness. And you may be noticing changes in your breasts. |
Lunar Month 3 6 wks gestation 8 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length of embryo is now 13-16mm (1/2 inch long). |
, Remember, you can have sex while pregnant, unless your health provider tells you otherwise. |
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Eyelids beginning to form. Cute gift: How to Pamper Your Pregnant Wife. |
Baby's tip of nose is now distinct. You may be experiencing dental problems. |
He's not making it up: couvade is a condition causing weight gain, nausea, mood swings etc. in daddy. |
Buds of genitals begin. Remember: smaller meals help heartburn; water, fiber and exercise help constipation. |
Baby's trunk is elongating and straightening. You may have concerns about spotting. |
7 wks gestation 9 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 18-20 mm (3/4 inch). Doppler picks up fetal heart beat, except if baby is very deep or mom's a bit heavy. |
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Upper limbs longer and bent at elbows; fingers distinct. Baby's anal membrane now perforated; testes and ovaries distinguishable. | ||||||
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Highly suggested reading: The Pregnancy Book, by William and Martha Sears. |
Length of embryo is now 22-25 mm. If you're 35, ask about chromosomal defects testing. CVS (chorionic villi sampling) can be done earlier than amnio. |
External genitalia still in sexless state. If smoking is an issue for you, find out about nicotine gum and patches. |
Groove for urethra formed; anus formed. Don't forget to get enough fluids? |
Baby's intestines have formed outside baby (on umbilical cord) because they can't fit inside. |
8 wks gestation 10 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 30 mm (1 1/4 inch). |
Baby is free floating in amniotic fluid; fetus is moving but cannot be felt by mother. |
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Baby is no longer an embryo; now begins the fetal period. Yeah! |
Skim milk, whole grains, soy products and fruits/veggies provide vitamins, calcium and protein: eat your spinach! Try: The Pregnancy Cookbook |
Tiny phallus forms which could be penis or clitoris; perineum formed. You might want to investigate ultrasounds. Should ultrasound be usedroutinely? |
Urethral fold extends into phallus and genitalia now show male characteristics now if a boy. |
Record your mood, energy level, and feelings today. Remember to eat foods rich in protein and iron. Here are some good grazing foods. |
9 wks gestation 11 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length of fetus: about 5 cm (almost 2 inches). Weight: about 8 grams. |
Your baby's iris is forming: his/her eyelids will temporarily fuse shut. If you're pregnant and working, learn your rights. |
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Your baby's face now has a human profile and prominent chin. Rest. |
Aspirin, prescribed medication and even excessive vitamins can be harmful: ask your provider before taking. |
Clitoris in female formed; labia majora formed. Suggested viewing: March of Dimes Presents - Take Charge of Your Pregnancy |
Reduce bladder infections by getting Vitamin C, urinating frequently, and drinking 8 glasses of water daily. |
Glans penis and scrotum formed. Try Kegel exercises to prepare for childbirth. |
10 wks gestation 12 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 6.1 cm (almost 2 1/2 inches). Weight: about 14 gm. |
Urine is formed and discharged into the amniotic cavity. |
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Coils of baby's intestine visible. Remember to jot down your emotions today. |
Fetus is swallowing and absorbing fluids. |
Early fingernails are developing. Smile and have a great day! |
Suggested reading: Eating Healthy for a Healthy Baby, Dana and Plotkin |
>Maternal weight gain is about 3-10 lbs. You may be able to feel your uterus just at or above the pubic bone. Try it! |
11 wks gestation 13 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 7 cm crown to rump (9 cm from head to toe). Weight: about 30 gm or 1 oz. |
Intestines are now contained within the abdomen. |
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Vocal cords develop: AGOOOOO! |
Nausea should be less of a problem; treat yourself kindly: eat small, healthy meals. Restart prenatal vitamins, if you had stopped. |
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Minimum daily iron requirement for expectant moms is 18 mg. Try dried apricots, Total cereal, meat, kidney beans, and leafy greens. |
If you haven't already, quit smoking. Each cigarette counts. For information on staying fit, see Buns of Steel 8 - Pregnancy Workout. |
If you're 35, you may consider having an amniocentesis. It is scheduled between 14-18 wks LMP. |
12 wks gestation 14 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 8.7 cm crown to rump (11 cm or 4 1/2 inches head to toe). Weight: 45 gm. |
With this week, you'll have completed one full trimester. Congratulations! Risk of miscarriage is now reduced. | ||
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Using a doppler, you can hear baby's heart. Remember: always wear your seatbelt (lap belt goes UNDER your uterus). |
Pregnancy requires about 60-80 gm intake of protein per day. Find out whether your pregnancy cravings real or imagined. |
Have a cat? Ask someone else to change the litter to avoid toxoplasmosis. |
Review your lab work today. Tests included Type & Rh Factor, Rubella, VDRL (or RPR) for syphilis, cultures for STDs, hepatitis B, urine analysis and a Pap smear. Discuss AFP test. Best time to do AFP is 15-21 weeks. |
If you catch a cold, rest and humidity are best. Midwife Peg Plumbo says Robitussin plain, Sudafed and acetaminophen are okay WITH practitioner's advice, but never use non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen. |
13 wk gestation 15 wks from Last Menstrual Period Beginning of Second Trimester! Length: 10 cm crown to rump (12.5 cm head to toe); Weight: 80 gms (1 1/2 ounces). |
Period of rapid growth begins. Your uterus may practice contracting (Braxton Hicks). If you have more than 5 per hour or severe backache and cramping, contact provider. |
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Don't get scared by Braxton Hicks - your body is just getting ready naturally. Trust it. It is normal that you may be feeling angry or generally emotional. |
Fun reading: The Girlfriend's Guide to Pregnancy Are you beginning to explore the topic of breastfeeding? |
Some moms may feel fetal movement, called quickening. There is great variety in first awareness but average is 18-22 wks. |
Add peas to your salad -- they're a good source of iron and protein. Learn what you can do to prevent preeclampsia. |
The uterus is approx. half way from pubic bone to umbilicus. Maternity clothes maybe comfortable. |
14 wk gestation 16 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 12 cm crown to rump (14 cm or 5 1/2 inches head to toes). Weight: about 3 ounces. |
Limb movements become coordinated. Head is now erect. |
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Eyes are now more forward rather than to side of head. Slow eye movements begin. |
Baby continues to grow rapidly; adds blinking to its list of reflexes (sucking, swallowing are others). |
Don't sunbathewhile pregnant as cholasma (a.k.a. mask of pregnancy or irregular pigment deposits) can occur on face. |
You may feel swelling in your hands and feet. Increase fluids and rest on left side (kidneys work better in this position). |
Early toenail development. Learn more about pregnancy and depression. |
15 wk gestation 17 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 13 cm crown to rump (16 cm or 6 1/4 inches head to toe). Weight: about 155 gms (4-5 oz) |
Take a tour of the birthing center or hospital. Ask about labor routines, visiting restrictions, rooming in and/or supplemental bottles. |
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Hungry? Try bell peppers - they offer a good dose of vitamin C. |
Check with your provider if you intend to travel while pregnant; More info on airplanes and car trips |
As breasts do enlarge, often 1-2 cup sizes, invest in a good support bra. |
Week of rapid growth; your body may have changed: chart weight, waist and emotions today. You may need relief from back pain. |
If you're getting an ultrasound, ask if you can bring a video tape. It may be possible to have a video keepsake. |
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16 wks gestation 18 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 14 cm crown to rump (18 cm or 7 inches head to toe). Weight: about 200 gm. |
This is the average gestational age (16 wks) that some moms first perceive fetal movement. | |||||
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Baby's body growth is now catching up to his/her head. You might be having trouble sleeping. |
Baby's lower limbs lengthening and bones are becoming ossified. |
Suggested reading: Seasons of Change: Growing Through Pregnancy & Birth, Suzanne Arms |
If baby is a girl, early ovaries contain early follicles with early eggs. Suggested viewing: Childbirth - From Inside Out - Pt. 1 - Pregnancy and the Pre-Natal |
Ears almost close to their position at side of head and stand out from head. |
17 wks gestation 19 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 15 cm crown to rump (20 cm or 8 inches head to toe). Weight: about 240 gm or 8 oz. |
You may want to consider your feeding options: breast vs. bottle. |
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Growth slowing a bit. Did you know? Your baby receives his nutrients 1-2 hours after you eat. |
Your provider may routinely order an ultrasound to see baby, cord, fluid and placenta. |
Unless provider says no (due to bleeding or possible pre-term labor), you can safely enjoy sex and quiet intimacy.You may experience a change in your sexual appetite. |
Heartburn is common (your stomach is getting compressed). Eat small, frequent meals. Check with provider before taking antacids. |
Multiples can be detected. Why? Your uterus grows larger than expected, iron levels drop and mother feels lots of movement. Two heartbeats may be heard. |
18 wks gestation 20 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 16 cm crown to rump (25 cm or 9 3/4 inches head to toe). Weight: 300 gm or 10 oz. |
Your uterus should measure approx. 20 cm between pubic bone and top of uterus. |
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Be proud of yourself - you are sharing space with your baby. You are a great nurturer! |
Baby's skin is coated with a cheesy substance (vernix) which protects against chapping, abrasions, and hardening. |
If baby is a girl, the uterus is formed and development of vagina has begun. You may be suffering from diarrhea or hemorrhoids. |
Remember that there is no safe level of alcohol for use in pregnancy. |
Pamper your back - maintain good posture; elevate feet. Be good to yourself and avoid junk food. |
19 wks gestation 21 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 17.5 cm crown to rump. Weight: 390 gm or 14 oz. You're halfway there: Congratulations! |
Suggested reading: The New Well Pregnancy Book, Mike & Nancy Samuels |
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Keep up with exercise, despite feeling a bit awkward or bulky. Swimming is wonderful! |
Suggested reading: What To Expect When You're Expecting, Eisenberg, Murkoff, and Hathaway. |
Register for a childbirth education program or a refresher session. Prepare to tell your employer that you're expecting. |
Parenting is hard! Consider a local parenting class or join an online support group. |
Baby may get hiccoughs; this is normal and fun for siblings and children to feel. |
20 wks gestation 22 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: about 19 cm crown to rump (27 cm or 10 1/2 inches head to toe). Weight: about 1 lb. |
To avoid hemorrhoids and constipation, increase fiber by eating whole grains, bran cereal, baked beans, and peaches with skin. Have a glass of milk today too! |
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Fine downy hair called lanugo now covers baby's body; eyebrows are visible. |
The Pregnancy Book by Dr. William and Martha Sears. Here are tips to insure you are getting enough freshveggies! |
Brown fat developed - this specialized fatty tissue keeps your baby warm. If you are experiencing discomfort, there are ways to cope. |
Testes in boys begin to descend; Ovaries in female located against posterior abdominal wall. |
When women become mothers, it affects the whole family's self-esteem. Be proud of your transition. |
21 wks gestation 23 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 20 cm crown to rump (28 cm or 11 inches head to toe). Weight: about 500 gm. |
Fetuses less than 500 gm at birth may survive but may have disabilities. With expert care, fetuses between 500 gm to 1000 gm can survive. |
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Suggested reading: Soul Trek: Meeting Our Children on the Way to Birth, Elisabeth Hallett. |
Baby is taking iron and calcium from you. You need 18 mg of iron and 2 gm of calcium daily. Try Cheerios and skim milk. Suggested viewing: Denise Austin - Pregnancy Plus Workout |
Baby can hear mother's heartbeat and stomach. |
Rapid eye movements begin. If you are having trouble sleeping, try a new position. |
Baby is better proportioned. Start thinking about child-proofing your home. |
22 wks gestation 24 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 21 cm crown to rump (29 cm or 11 1/4 inches head to toe). Weight: 630 gm. |
Your care provider may do a cervical check to assess for risk of preterm labor. |
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Consider making an appointment with a pediatric care provider. |
Discuss pros and cons of circumcision with your care provider. |
Baby's skin is wrinkled, translucent, and pink to red. If you could see your baby, you could see her bones, organs and vessels. |
Suggested Reading: The Complete Book of Pregnancy by Sheila Kitzinger |
Now is a good time to register for prenatal classes. |
23 wk gestation 25 wk from Last Menstrual Period Length: 22 cm crown to rump (30 cm or 11 3/4 inches head to toe). Weight: about 700 gm. |
Blink-startle responses have been reported when baby hears a loud noise. Here's help planning the perfect baby shower! |
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Check your uterus; it should measure about 24-26 cm and be about 3 finger-breadths above your belly button. |
Baby's bowel contains some meconium, a dark green tar-like substance excreted during the first few days after birth. |
Stretch marks may appear. BE PROUD: They're symbolic of your baby's road map to life. |
The linea nigra, a black line, might appear from pubic bone to navel. This normal and will lighten after about 3 months postpartum. |
Abdominal itching is normal; try using olive oil, lanolin, or evening primrose oil. To avoid varicose veins, try maternity hose and frequent walks to increase circulation. |
24 wks gestation 26 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 23 cm crown to rump (31 cm or 12 inches head to toe). Weight: about 800 gm or 1 lb 12 oz. |
You should be tested now for gestational diabetes with the glucose challenge test. |
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Fingernails are now present. |
Find the birthplan that is right for you. Or try this interactive plan. |
Lungs begin to manufacture surfactant, a substance that keeps lung tissue from sticking to itself. |
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Suggested reading: Woman's Experience of Sex and Making Love During Pregnancy. |
Uterus should measure about 26-28 cm at this time. Baby's brain continues rapid growth. |
25 wks gestation 27 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 24 cm crown to rump (32.5 cm or almost 12 1/2 inches head to toe). Weight: about 910 gm. |
Ask a friend/partner to listen to your belly...your baby's heart beat is detectable against the side where baby's back (a firm ridge) can be felt. Fun! | |||
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Be aware of preterm labor symptoms: menstrual-like cramps if more than 5 per hour, "come and go" low backache, sudden change in vaginal discharge, or leaking of fluid. |
Suggested reading: Essential Exercises for the Childbearing Years, by Elizabeth Noble. |
Practice pelvic rocking several times a day. Don't forget your Kegel exercises! |
Some women experience loss of urine during pregnancy. Do 3-4 sessions of kegel exercises to strengthen muscles. |
Suggested reading: The Expectant Father, by Armin Brott. |
26 wks gestation 28 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 25 cm crown to rump (33 cm or almost 13 inches head to toe). Weight: about 1000 gm. |
Start doing daily fetal movement counting. Count your baby's kicks! |
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If you are Rh negative, get your RhoGAM injection and Rh titer. |
Hormonal changes may cause grouchiness to come back - just remember, you're almost done! You may feel like you need a vacation. |
Blood volume has doubled by now; iron requirements are high. |
Baby's eyelids open and eyelashes are present. Find out about cesarean sections. |
Suggested viewing: Childbirth - From Inside Out - Pt. 2 - Delivery and the Post-Natal |
27 wks gestation 29 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: about 26 cm crown to rump (35 cm or 13 3/4 inches head to toe). Weight: approx. 1150 gm. Beginning of third trimester! |
Baby's lungs are developed enough to breathe air fairly efficiently but he or she would tire rapidly. |
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Toenails now visible. Baby likes to suck thumb and is developing a layer of fat under skin. |
Suggested Reading: Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way or Complete Guide to the Lamaze Method |
Some providers recommend perineum massage daily to avoid lacerations and episiotomy. |
Your weight gain is approx. 15-20 lbs. by now. Chart your weight, waist, and emotions today. Read this before going on a diet. |
Notify your care provider of any: contractions, backache, visual disturbances, swelling, headaches. |
28 wks gestation 30 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 27 cm crown to rump (36 cm or 14 inches head to toe). Weight: about 1300 gm or 3 lbs. |
By using her hands on your belly, your provider maybe able to pinpoint baby's head, back, and buttocks for you. Ask her at your next visit. |
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Sleeping with pillows under your belly and between your legs relieves back stress. |
Skin is slightly wrinkled and eyes are wide open. |
Good head of hair often present at this point. You may want a doula present with you at a hospital birth. |
Vaginal itching may be a sign of a yeast infection. Discuss any medications with your provider. |
No one deserves to be hurt. If you're being emotionally or physically hurt, confide in your doctor or midwife. They are trained to help and can connect you to resources. |
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29 wks gestation 31 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 27.5 cm crown to rump (37.5 cm or about 14 3/4 inches head to toe). Weight: about 1500 gms. |
Make sure that you are pre-registered at the hospital or birthing center (even if you are planning a home birth or a birth without medication). | |||||
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Baby comforts by sucking thumb. Grasp is well developed and he may even grasp the umbilical cord at times. |
Fetuses weighing 1500 gm and 2500 gm can survive but can face respiratory distress, trouble stabilizing temperature and glucose, intracranial hemorrhage, and feeding problems. |
Begin working with your support person to prepare for labor. Realization, massage, and focus exercises can begin. Water birth is an option. |
Keep up the exercise regimen. Walking and swimming are good now. |
If you have gestational diabetes, seek assistance of a nutritionist, test blood sugars, and stay with the diet. |
30 wks gestation 32 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 28 cm crown to rump (39 cm or 15 1/4 inches head to toe. Weight: about 1700 gms or about 3 lb 12 oz. |
The American Academy of Pediatrics says that breastfeeding is best for your |
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Baby is able to hear sound and is getting accustomed to family voices. |
Try reading to baby, like the Cat in the Hat. It can be fun to connect prenatally. |
Testes descending from the abdomen, if it's a boy. Baby's brain and nerves are developing, and directing bodily functions. |
Some providers do a cervical exam to check for early cervical changes. Are internal exams really necessary in late pregnancy? |
Baby should be head down. Talk to provider about breech birth some exercises that might help you avoid it. |
31 wks gestation 33 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 29 cm crown to rump (40 cm or 15 3/4 inches head to toe). Weight: about 1900 gms or 4 lbs. 5 oz. |
Baby's pupil will now constrict if light is shined in eye. |
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Plan your route to the hospital or birthing center, even if you are planning a home birth. Suggested viewing: Getting Ready for Baby |
Increase in discharge is common now. Be aware that this is not leaking of fluid. Ask provider about a simple Ph test to determine difference. |
Stick with those daily fetal movement counts. When baby is most active (like when you want to sleep!), baby should move 10 times in one hour. If not, drink juice and count for one more hour. Call provider if baby hasn't moved 10 times in 2 hours. |
Suggested reading: The Baby Book, by Dr. William and Martha Sears. Talk to your baby today! |
Braxton-Hicks contractions continue to occur but without regularity or pain. Are varicose veins making you crazy? |
32 wks gestation 34 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 30 cm crown to rump (about 41 cm or 16 inches head to toe). Weight: about 2100 gms or 4 lbs. 11 oz. |
Fingernails reach the tips of the fingernails. |
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Skin is pink and smooth. Baby begins to develop sleeping patterns. Start to put delivery pain in perspective. |
If baby is born now, if healthy, he or she would have an excellent chance for survival with provision of warmth, respiratory support and good care. |
Expectant fathers also have needs; they sometimes doubt their parenting skills. Support and communication are very important. |
Remember you ARE beautiful, womanly and motherly. You may feel bulky but you are full of life. Find out if sex is dangerous this late in pregnancy. |
Sex can still be fun and safe, unless there is risk of pre-term labor, infection or premature rupture of the membranes. Read: Making Love During Pregnancy. |
33 wks gestation 35 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: about 31 cm crown to rump (42.5 cm or 16 1/2 inches head to toe). Weight: 2300 gms or about 5 lbs. |
Don't forget to get a car seat for baby. If labor started, it probably wouldn't be medically stopped as baby has an excellent chance now. |
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Some cultures have baby showers; others have parties for mom but wait until baby is born to buy her/him gifts. |
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Baby is putting on fat and things are getting cramped inside. Almost time to come out! Here's some advice about discomfort. |
Your hemoglobin (iron) is coming back up. Baby is done taking most of the iron she needs from mother. |
Dreams about the baby are common; Fears about baby's health and your mothering are normal. Read: Pregnancy is a journey. |
Start planning for the postpartum experience. Get some support teams in place for housekeeping, meals, and laundry. |
34 wks gestation 36 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 32 cm crown to rump (44 cm or 17 1/4 inches head to toe). Weight: 2500 gms or about 5 lbs. 9 oz. |
The last month of gestation begins! Becoming a mother is a life transition. Here are some mental exercises to prepare. | |
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Baby gains weight most rapidly during this month: about 1/2 - 3/4 lb. per week. Report symptoms of pre-eclampsia, excessive water retention, headaches, visual disturbance, or abdominal pain. |
Baby settles into mom's pelvis, a process called lightening or engagement which makes mom's breathing easier; baby's new position doesn't stop him/her from kicking and punching. |
Make sure that you discuss labor and delivery options/routines with your provider. Issues could include IVs, fetal monitoring, positions, episiotomy, drugs, shaves, and enemas. Consider a birth plan. |
Dad: Accentuate the positive. Remind her she is beautiful and that you will both make good partners and parents. |
Cervical checks may become frequent, although labor is hard to predict. Cervical thinning (effacement), softening and some early dilatation may be occurring. |
35 wks gestation 37 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 33 cm crown to rump (about 45 cm or 17 1/2 inches head to toe). Weight: 2700 gms or 6 lbs. Earliest date of full-term birth: get ready! |
If planning a hospital birth, discuss analgesia/anesthesia options with your provider. Also ask about induction and natural ways to encourage labor. |
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Suggested reading: Your Baby and Child: From Birth to Age 5, Penelope Leach. Suggested viewing: Buns & Abs of Steel 9 - Post Pregnancy Workout |
Research baby-related products carefully: If you're planning to breastfeed, begin looking into which pump might best suit your needs. |
Go home! It's time to rest at home and prepare for birth: take it easy -- you have a lot of work ahead. |
Pack your suitcase! Even if planning a home birth, pack a few essentials in case of transport. |
Bloody show (mucous plug - which is thick mucous) may occur any time now. Labor may not be imminent, but it is normal and due to changes in the cervix. |
36 wks gestation 38 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: 34 cm crown to rump (47.5 cm or 18 1/2 inches head to toe). Weight: 2900 gms or about 6 1/2 lbs. |
Baby is fairly plump now. Talk about your expectations of family. |
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Lanugo hair mostly gone except tops of shoulders and back. |
Rest, rest, rest! You'll appreciate why in a couple of weeks. If you're using a diaper service, call them to arrange for service. |
Toenails reach tips of toes; limbs are held flexed. Think about labor as a process of letting go of control. |
Plan events/tasks for siblings so they share the joy of a new baby. Siblings board. |
Prepare a list of phone numbers - emergency numbers as well as family/friends to call with your news. |
37 wks gestation 39 wks from Last Menstrual Period Length: about 35 cm crown to rump (48.5 cm or 19 inches head to toe). Weight: about 3150 gms or 7 lbs. (but could be 1-3 pounds larger). |
Vernix mostly gone now. Heel creases present - a sign of fetal maturity. |
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Only five percent of babies are born on their due date so birth could happen any time. |
Note any passing of fluid; notify your provider immediately (don't wait until morning or take a shower first). |
Rest! When labor starts, you may be up for 24-48 hours. Frequent trips to the bathroom and discomfort make sleeping difficult. |
Levels of amniotic fluid have stabilized. It's exciting. Feel good and be proud of yourself. |
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Your baby may be deep in pelvis making breathing easier. Labor may have begun. |
You have now completed 38 wks gestation 40 wks from Last Menstrual Period! Length: about 20-21 inches from head to toe. Weight: about 7 1/2 lbs. |
Baby may even wait up to 2 more weeks to come out. | ||||
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The umbilical cord is 20-inches and will support baby through birth until the lungs take over. |
Testes are in scrotum, labia well developed. Here's how to know if you are really in labor. |
Fingernails extend beyond fingertips. Consider if you want to use postpartum birth control. |
