You are showing signs of labor which tells you that delivery time is here.
Welcome to the 36th week of your pregnancy.
Mother’s Changes
The average weight gain for you now is 25-30 pounds. You have to consume 2400 calories per day. The body gets tired soon and needs a lot of fuel. You can also take a tour of the hospital if you have not already.
There are some signs of labor that start showing at this stage.
There is the lightening which is also known as the baby dropped, the bloody show which is known as the mucous plug, the rapture of membranes or the breaking of water, the opening of the mother’s cervix, diarrhea, and contractions better known as labor pains.
If you face any leaking of the amniotic fluid, you should inform the practitioner immediately.
The thinning of the cervix and the dilation has just started. You may experience lightning that is the baby drops into the mother’s pelvis region preparing itself for the labor. You would feel hungrier as the baby does not create pressure into the intestines or stomach now.
You may still feel trouble while going to sleep and there is a lot of fatigue and exhaustion. You may have to go to the bathroom more than often because the baby creates pressure in the lower abdomen.
You could do with a number of small meals and as big meals can create problems. You can continue with exercises and breathing exercises. This is the time you can catch up with a good lot of reading.
After the baby comes home you have to be on your toes and so you would not get so much time to plan things like her nursery or the crib. You can do such thing snow.
Baby’s Growth
The baby is almost ready to drop into the canal of birth any time now. The fat dimples on the baby’s elbows, knees and there are creases in the wrists and the neck. The gums of the baby are very rigid.
The little thing you had seen in the ultrasounds is now a plump baby. The baby has a full face and powerful sucking muscles on the face.
Now she weighs a little less than six pounds.
The baby’s skull bones can overlap while the baby moves inside the pelvis. This is known as molding and if your baby appears with a head that is misshapen, don’t be surprised. After a few days, it will get back its shape.
Bones and genital development is also complete.
Father’s Role
It is difficult holding a newborn especially when their necks are so soft but you will slowly grow used to the habit of holding this dear cuddly darling who is your very own.
You can do whatever the mom does to the baby except for breastfeeding. So be prepared to take turns in nursing the baby. You would develop a deep bond with your child if you are involved.
The inspiration for the week
Pray for a safe delivery and a healthy child to grace your arms.