Month Eight: One of the most exciting things about pregnancy is tracking your development - and your baby’s - each month. Many new changes occur each month to both mom and baby as you get closer and closer to your due date. At the same time, you are likely to experience a range of sensations and symptoms that will delight you. While some symptoms can be distracting at times, it’s comforting to know that what you’re feeling is quite normal. Be sure to call your physician or clinician with any questions about your own pregnancy.
Your nights seem longer due to the lack of comfortable sleep, but keep a bag packed just in case one of those nights is interrupted by labour! Occasionally, women will notice their breasts begin to leak during this time. Don’t worry, this fluid is called colostrum. Small amounts of this liquid have created a film or residue on your nipples since mid-pregnancy. Your breasts are responding to the hormones that prepare you for nursing your baby.
Are you feeling breathless? Your growing baby is taking up a lot of space that you used to use to breathe. By the end of the ninth month, the baby will have dropped down into the pelvis, but until then you might find yourself huffing and puffing a little. Slow down a bit, and rest more often. You may find that an assortment of pillows is helpful in propping you up and supporting your tummy as you lay on your side.
Laying flat on your back should be avoided because of the weight that it applies to the arteries and veins that supply your pelvis and lower extremities. The increasing weight of the uterus does affect the circulation to the lower extremities - as well as putting more demand on them in carrying additional cargo. Your calves, thighs or feet may cramp up and leave your leg feeling achy. Massage those tired legs, and put them up when you get the chance.
As you approach the end of pregnancy, it is important that you continue to feel active periods of foetal movement. This is especially true if you’ve had any complication of pregnancy like hypertension or diabetes, etc. Many clinicians have different formulas for what they consider a “normal” amount of movement. If you have any concerns regarding foetal movements, especially a decrease in the quantity or quality of foetal movements, consult your physician right away.
It’s getting close to the time you’ve been waiting for - the birth of the baby that has been growing these many months. To prepare for this, the foetus turns to a head down position and snuggles into the pelvis. The space is getting a little cramped and rapid fluttery movements are fewer, it’s now big thumps and kicks.
The baby is certainly ready for life outside the mother now and, when born, most babies would be able to breathe air without any problem. The lungs have become stronger. The foetus is almost fully-grown, weighing about 2.25 kilos and measuring 45 cms in length.
Reference: Women's Health Connecticut, Inc. Physicians for Women's Health, LLC
