Pregnancy

Pregnancy Week 37

Baby Development

By this week, The Baby will be the size of a canary melon. They are still busy practicing breathing through the amniotic fluid, blinking, and moving. Further changes are also noticed. The baby might cling to any side of your belly or must be grasping his toes or fingers. They would suck their fingers these days, thus, preparing for feeding. The lungs are fully matured by this time. The Baby is probably making movements inside the uterus.

The most exciting fact is that the head is comparatively larger than his body, and it’s almost equivalent to the chest size of the baby. An active fat deposition occurs on his body, particularly the limbs and shoulders.

Changes in mother

The expecting mother will have some dilation. For a perfect delivery, the cervix should be at least 10 centimeters open to pass the baby easily. The consistency of the cervix is mandated as it would be firm, from the tip of the nose to soft as the inside of the cheeks. The cervix moves from back to front as the due date approaches. This process occurs very gradually over the weeks.

Instances are there when the mother is dilated, but delivery hasn’t happened yet. Perineal massage- gently stretches the skin between the vagina and rectum (an area called the perineum). It would further maximize the stinging that occurs during the baby’s crowning.

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Pregnancy Week 37 symptoms

Bloody show- A pinkish or brownish bloody mucus indicates the dilation of the cervix. Thus preparing itself for the delivery.
Pelvic pain is experienced when the baby approaches the pelvic floor, hips, and bladder. The pressure exerted is uncomfortable, so a sling investment would help to support increased belly weight.
Breast changes- you may feel a fullness in the breasts as the nipples start popping, and colostrum leak would follow the procedure—a perfect indication for parturition.

Important Tips

What to do

Drinking water- This is the best way to stay hydrated and bloat-free. The mother-to-be should consume at least eight glasses of water to maintain a perfect fluid balance in the uterus.
Exercise ball- A durable and non-bursting exercise ball is highly recommended. It would help in relaxation and pain relief.

What to avoid

Avoid gaining weight at a fast pace. A few ounces of flesh and fats are still okay until and unless the gaining strategy is slow. Many women don’t put on weight at all.

When to Consult a Doctor

Consult a doctor immediately if there’s no movement of the baby or if there is any unbearable pain.

Takeaway

By this week, the baby is the size of a canary melon and has been practicing for life outside the womb. The mother’s body prepares for delivery by stretching the perineum and dilating the cervix. She should stay hydrated, exercise, and avoid gaining weight quickly.

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