18 October, 2018

Things to know about the last weeks of your Pregnancy

Your body changes a lot during the last few weeks of your pregnancy. A lot of important things are happening to your baby at this time. If you have a healthy pregnancy, you should try and wait at least 39 weeks before you think about inducing labor. If you do choose to induce, ask your doctor if there is any medical reason for it.

In the last few weeks of pregnancy, these are some of the things that are happening:

TO YOUR BABY

  1. Your baby’s brain is still growing and developing. At 35 weeks, your baby’s brain weighs just two-thirds of what it does at 39 weeks.
  2. All the important organs such as lungs and liver develop fully and start functioning during this time. If your baby is born too early, they may have breathing problems and jaundice after birth, and may need to be kept in the NICU for a few days.
  3. Your baby is gaining weight in the last weeks of your pregnancies. Babies born at a healthy weight stay warm more easily than those who are born too small.
  4. In the last few weeks of your pregnancy, your baby is still learning how to suck and swallow. These skills will help your baby feed better and avoid some feeding problems after he’s born.
  5. Your baby’s eyes and ears are also going through some extremely important changes in these last few weeks of pregnancy.

TO YOUR BODY

  1. You may find yourself physically exhausted in the last month of pregnancy. Even routine things such as getting up off the sofa can leave you out of breath. This is due to your body changing rapidly in the last few weeks.
  2. You may even lose some of your weight during the last few weeks. Your baby is still gaining, what you lose are actually some amount of amniotic fluid due to hormones shifting fluid around in your body.
  3. You will also start feeling a little bit better in the few weeks before your deliver. Two common discomforts i.e. breathlessness and heartburn, tend to ease off during the ninth month.
  4. You will begin to feel the need to urinate more frequently as baby’s head begins to press more on your bladder.
  5. You may feel different kinds of baby kicks. Babies move less in the ninth month than they did in the eighth, but they may kick more powerfully now.

These are some of the more normal changes that occur to your body in the last couple of weeks. If you feel anything different, don’t hesitate to see your doctor, even if your due date isn’t around. Our team of experts at KIMS Cuddles will help put all your queries to rest.

*Information shared here is for general purpose Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.

SIMILAR ARTICLES

blog featured image

28 August, 2024

Trimester Talk - Stages of Pregnancy

What to Expect in Each Stage of PregnancyPregnancy is a transforming experience that involves both physical and emotional changes. Understanding what to expect in each trimester can help you navigate this exciting time with confidence. This guide breaks down the key changes you may experience during each stage of pregnancy.First Trimester: Weeks 1-12Physical ChangesDuring the first trimester, your body undergoes rapid changes as it begins to support the growing fetus. Common physical symptoms include:Nausea and Vomiting: This is commonly known as morning sickness and it can occur at any time of day.Fatigue: Hormonal changes can leave you feeling unusually tired.Breast Tenderness: Hormones may cause your breasts to become sore and swollen.Frequent Urination: Increased blood flow to the kidneys can result in more frequent trips to the restroom.Emotional ChangesThe first trimester can be an emotional rollercoaster due to fluctuating hormone levels and the excitement or anxiety of impending motherhood. It's normal to feel a mix of joy, worry and mood swings during this time.Second Trimester: Weeks 13-26
blog featured image

28 August, 2024

Prenatal and Postnatal Vitamins

The Importance of Prenatal and Postnatal Vitamins for Mothers and BabiesPregnancy and the postpartum period are critical times for both mother and baby, requiring extra nutritional support to ensure healthy development and recovery. Prenatal and postnatal vitamins play a vital role in meeting these nutritional needs, supporting both the mother’s wellbeing and the baby’s growth. This blog explores the importance of these vitamins, what they contain and how they benefit mothers and babies.Prenatal Vitamins: Supporting a Healthy PregnancyWhy Prenatal Vitamins are Essential?Prenatal vitamins are specially formulated supplements designed to provide the extra nutrients needed during pregnancy. They help bridge nutritional gaps in a mother's diet, ensuring both her health and the healthy development of the baby.Key Nutrients in Prenatal VitaminsFolic Acid: Crucial for preventing neural tube defects in the developing fetus. It's recommended that women start taking folic acid before conception and continue through pregnancy.Iron: Supports the increased blood volume in the mother and helps deliver oxygen to the baby. It also prevents anemia, which
blog featured image

28 August, 2024

Preparing for Pregnancy

A Guide for Expectant MothersPreconception Checkups: The First StepBefore you embark on the journey of pregnancy, it's crucial to ensure your body is ready. Scheduling a preconception checkup with your healthcare provider is the first step. During this session, your doctor will go over your medical history, current health status and any medications you may be taking. This checkup is an opportunity to identify and manage any health issues that could affect your pregnancy.Key Tests and ScreeningsYour preconception checkup may include:Blood tests can determine anemia, blood type, and immunity to infections such as rubella and chickenpox.Screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).Assessing your vaccination status and updating any necessary vaccines.A discussion on managing chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.Nutrition Tips for Expectant MothersNutrition is extremely important in preparing your body for pregnancy. A well balanced diet contains critical nutrients that promote fetal and mother health.Key NutrientsFolic Acid: Critical for preventing neural tube abnormalities. Aim for at least 400 micrograms per day from fortified meals or supplements.Iron:
Loading booking..