Week 39 of Pregnancy: Nearing the Finish Line
As you approach the end of your pregnancy, your body and baby are undergoing significant changes in preparation for labor and delivery. Week 39 marks the final stretch of your pregnancy journey, and it’s essential to understand what to expect during this crucial time.
Physical Changes:
- Increased Braxton Hicks contractions: These irregular contractions become more frequent and intense as your body prepares for labor. They may feel like a tightening or hardening of your abdomen.
- Lowered belly: The baby’s head may engage in your pelvis, causing your belly to drop and making it easier to breathe.
- Weight gain: You may gain around 1-2 pounds this week, bringing your total weight gain to approximately 25-35 pounds.
- Frequent urination: The baby’s increased size puts pressure on your bladder, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom.
- Hemorrhoids: Increased pressure on your veins can cause hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the rectum.
- Swollen feet and ankles: Fluid retention can lead to swelling in your extremities. Elevate your feet and wear comfortable shoes to minimize discomfort.
Emotional Changes:
- Excitement and anticipation: As the due date approaches, you may feel a mix of excitement and anticipation for the arrival of your baby.
- Anxiety and nervousness: It’s normal to experience some anxiety or nervousness about labor and delivery. Talk to your healthcare provider or support person about your concerns.
- Mood swings: Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to mood swings and emotional sensitivity.
- Insomnia: Discomfort and anxiety can make it difficult to sleep soundly. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and try to get as much rest as possible.
Baby’s Development:
- Weight and length: Your baby now weighs around 7-8 pounds and is approximately 19-20 inches long.
- Position: The baby is usually head-down in preparation for delivery.
- Brain development: The baby’s brain continues to develop rapidly, and they can now respond to external stimuli.
- Lung development: The baby’s lungs are fully developed and ready to function independently.
- Vernix caseosa: The baby’s skin is covered in a waxy substance called vernix caseosa, which protects it from the amniotic fluid.
What to Expect:
- Regular prenatal appointments: Continue to attend your scheduled prenatal appointments to monitor your and your baby’s health.
- Pelvic exams: Your healthcare provider may perform pelvic exams to check the baby’s position and dilation of your cervix.
- Monitoring contractions: Pay attention to the frequency and intensity of your contractions. If they become regular and painful, it may be a sign of labor.
- Preparing for labor: Pack your hospital bag, create a birth plan, and discuss your preferences with your healthcare provider.
- Rest and relaxation: Take advantage of this time to rest and relax before the demands of labor and delivery.
Signs of Labor:
- Regular contractions: Contractions that occur every 5-10 minutes and last for 30-60 seconds.
- Water breaking: The rupture of your amniotic sac, which releases a gush of fluid.
- Bloody show: A small amount of blood-tinged mucus that indicates the loss of your mucus plug.
- Back pain: Persistent back pain that does not go away with rest.
When to Call Your Healthcare Provider:
- If you experience any of the signs of labor.
- If you have any concerns about your or your baby’s health.
- If you have any bleeding or cramping.
- If you have a fever or chills.
- If your contractions become very painful or frequent.
Week 39 of pregnancy is a time of both excitement and preparation. By understanding the physical and emotional changes you and your baby are experiencing, you can navigate this final stretch with confidence and anticipation. Remember to prioritize your health, rest, and communication with your healthcare provider as you approach the momentous day of your baby’s arrival.