Your Pregnancy Week 38
Baby
Congratulations! You've reached the final weeks in your pregnancy (if you haven't delivered already!) Your baby has probably reached her birth weight now. Most babies weigh somewhere between 6-8 pounds when they are born. Boys are usually longer and heavier than girls.
All her internal organs are ready to support her in the outside world. She has also developed healthy amounts of baby fat over the past week and her immune system is developing and will continue to develop after she is born. Her fingernails and toenails have reached the end of her fingers and toes and might even need a trim after she is born!
Mom
How are you feeling? Have you noticed any electrical tingles in your legs and inside of your vagina? These tingles are caused by your baby hitting nerves as she settles down into your pelvic area. Have you noticed any sharp, shooting pains? The baby is probably resting on your sciatic nerve. The best thing to do is try to get some rest and put your feet up!
You may also have been experiencing Braxton-Hicks contractions for weeks now, but how do you know when it's time to call your healthcare provider? If there is a change in the frequency of contractions, it's probably a good idea to call. You might also notice some brown, pink, or red discharge signaling the fact that you have lost your mucus plug, and your water may also break. These are all signs that labor is starting and it's a good idea to let your partner and your healthcare provider know that it's time!
Preparing for the Big Day. So...your bags are packed, you probably feel huge and want to get this show on the road. Many women find it helpful to mentally rehearse for the big day. You may want to set aside some time to review your breathing and relaxation techniques to help you manage the pain of labor.
Tired of rehearsing? Try doing something to distract you, like making some mix CD's! Many hospitals allow you to listen to your own music during labor. There's no way to tell how long your labor is going to be and if you're there for 6 , 12 or 20 hours, chances are you don't want to listen to the same CD on repeat! Load up your MP3 player or burn some CD's. It's a great way to pass the time and take your mind off backaches, tingles in your legs and intensifying contractions.
