loginPregnancy Week By Week - 36 Weeks Pregnant
Welcome to the first week of month 9, you are now eight months pregnant. You’re just four weeks away from your due date. Your baby currently measures about 48cm long and weighs about 2.7kg. You are likely to feel jabs from the elbows and feet and complete body rolls as your baby changes position.
The downy hair that has been covering your baby’s skin until now is being shed and the waxy vernix which has protected the skin is also disappearing. Your baby will be considered to term after this week and should be waiting in the head-down birth position.
Some of the symptoms you would experience at this stage are:
- Fatigue
- Frequent urination
- Heartburn
- Leaky breasts
- Pelvic discomfort
- Trouble sleeping
- Heartburn
- Swollen ankles and feet
- Changes in vaginal discharge
- Braxton Hicks contractions
Your stomach is being compressed by your growing uterus and so small, frequent meals are more easily tolerated. Your breathing becomes easier now that your baby has moved down into your pelvis. If your baby is engaged you may feel extra pressure in the pelvic area and this could make walking uncomfortable for you.
The Braxton Hicks contractions are more frequent now in preparation for real labour. These last few weeks should be a straightforward waiting game, but you must be very conscious of warning signs such as any vaginal bleeding, suspected amniotic fluid leaks, constant abdominal pain, persistent or a severe headache and blurred vision and go to your hospital/health centre.
If you are experiencing contractions or think you may be experiencing contractions, call your doctor or go to the hospital. Call your doctor if you experience vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, or severe abdominal pain.
While your baby’s movements have probably slowed down some, you should still feel them. If you notice a decrease in movement (less than 10 movements in an hour), or if you’re concerned about your baby’s movement, call your doctor.
Comments
Comments
