The baby is beginning to descend into the birth canal (pelvis).
What's Happening With Your Baby This Week?
- The head is settling into the pelvic bone; this is called "engagement."
- Since space is very tight, you may feel more stretching and pushing movements rather than kicks.
- The lungs are nearly fully mature; surfactant production has reached sufficient levels.
- The digestive system is fully functional; meconium is stored in the large intestine.
- The baby keeps storing about 14 grams of fat per day; energy reserves are building.
This Week's Tips for Mom
- As the baby drops lower, your stomach will feel relieved and breathing will become easier.
- However, pressure on the bladder will increase, so you'll need to urinate more frequently.
- Doctor visits will now be weekly; cervical examination may begin.
- Group B streptococcus (GBS) testing is done this week; the result may affect your birth plan.
- Mapping out the route to the hospital and emergency plan with your partner is a great idea.
Tip of the day: Starting perineal massage can help reduce the risk of tearing and episiotomy during vaginal delivery. After consulting your doctor, you can gently massage with warm oil 2-3 times a week after showering.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Length and weight values are averages; every baby grows at their own pace.
