Minor Baby Developments at Pregnancy Week 38
At 38 weeks pregnant, all your baby’s body systems are good to go. His tiny hands can now firmly grasp your finger and his tear ducts are forming so that he can communicate his discomfort with you when he finally comes home.
Any bodily changes from this point on will be small and all you can do now is wait for hormones that start the labour contractions to do their part.
Related: Pregnancy Week 37: Baby Development, Symptoms, and What to Expect
Your Body and More Pregnancy Changes at Week 38
The amniotic fluid levels are rapidly decreasing at this point and the baby’s head has shifted further down into the birth canal, easing pressure off your upper organs. You can now breath easier even though you are still fatigued and there is still a lot of pressure on your cervix.
With his head down there, it might feel like he is going to fall out. Swollen feet are a common sign of pregnancy at this stage but pay attention if you notice swelling in your hands and face. If it comes with a severe tummy ache or headache, it is a bad sign pointing to a bigger problem like pregnancy-induced hypertension and you should see a doctor immediately.
38 weeks pregnant is a waiting game that is likely to be riddled with anxiety from your end. Especially if you are a first time mum, your mind will be full of questions and worries about things that could happen during the birth. It is wise that you share these with your healthcare provider on this week’s visit.
Familiarize yourself with how to birth a baby and watch out for signs of active labour. Listen out for contractions that are sharp, consistent, close together and accompanied by back pain. Another sign is the waters breaking or bloody discharge which indicates a dilating cervix. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to rush to the hospital.
Pregnancy Week 38 Tip
You are 38 weeks pregnant which means that your baby will be home soon. So, now is the time to grab any chance you can get to spend uninterrupted time with your partner. It will be several weeks after birth before you and he can resume sex after pregnancy. Work at maintaining that physical bond this week. You can cuddle, have him give you massages for they will go a long way in relieving the back ache or just spend some quiet time together.
Also Read: What Really Happens in the Delivery Room
Getting Ready for Labor and Delivery
This week during your hospital visit, the doctor will check the position of your baby, ask about their movements, and monitor their heartbeat. They will also check your blood pressure and look for signs of placenta problems or uterine infections that can complicate your pregnancy. You’ll also get more information on watching out for signs of labour and danger signs which should get you to a hospital immediately.
For mums receiving antenatal and postnatal care at Malaica, our 24/7 hotline, with access to an expert, comes in handy at this stage to help you distinguish between minor discomforts and real signs of labour.
If you’re doing last minute shopping for a maternity hospital, call us at +254 746 610643 to learn how we can support you through this special moment for a safe and confident delivery.
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