week 39
What is happening to my baby?
Your baby is continue to grow and mature during this week. Since there is less space to move around, your baby would not be able to move as much as she or he likes to do. However, you should be able to still keep track of your baby’s movement. If there is any reduced or slowing of your baby’s movement from your fetal movement chart, do see your doctor as soon as possible.
What is happening to me?
There probably would not be as much change the last few week of this pregnancy. You would have gain weight to a total of up to 13 kg. Some women may have some fear of what to do when their water bags break. What symptoms would they experience? What should they do if it happens in public? Do not worry, only up to 13% of women will have they water bags break spontaneously in early labour. For the majority of women will already be advanced in labour before their water bags break. Therefore, to prepare for the unexpected you could prepare several things in your handbag or car that may come in handy such as a change of clothes / underwear, plastic bag, a small towel and a large sanitary pad.
Occasionally, some women’s water bag will break without them having any contractions or their cervix is still not opened. This is known as prelabour rupture of membranes. Your doctor could either wait or induce your delivery at this stage. Discuss with your doctor regarding the best option for you.
What should I plan this week?
- See your doctor for your weekly antenatal check up
- Continue to do your fetal movement chart
- Take time to relax
- Read up on what to expect in labour. Even better, read the book together with your partner, so he is also well prepared as well.
- Read up on what to prepare during post partum period
- Prepare for the post partum period e.g arrangement for meals, child care and delegate/ hand over of your office work to other colleagues
Tips of the week
Tips of preparing for your post partum period:
- Buy a book on this on how to cope with your post partum period
- Be mentally and physically prepared for all the things you would face during your post partum period
- Make arrangements to get some help to take care of the baby or the other children and the house e.g nanny, your friends or relatives.
- Relax do not get too overwhelmed if things are not going your way. You and your baby need time to adjust to the new life.
- Try to enjoy yourself and your new baby. Do not sweat over the small stuff.
Health matter
You could read further on the following topics:
