Braxton Hicks Contractionsīraxton Hicks contractions are known as “practice contractions” of the uterus. However, it may be traded for leg cramps or pains, increased pelvic pressure, and edema in the legs and feet. With baby dropped downward and the uterus no longer pushing into the diaphragm and lungs, breathing often becomes easier. Lightening is when baby moves down lower into the pelvis. Here are the 6 main signs that labor’s on it’s way: 1. As you wait for baby, pay attention to your body’s signals so you’ll know when labor is approaching (5). We’ve been talking about signs of labor for a couple weeks, but right now, this information is pretty much the center of your thoughts. If you’ve begun to dilate at all, just celebrate the fact that forward motion is happening. As great as it would be if we could predict things more accurately, we’ll just have to embrace the fact that labor and birth remain one thing in life that are necessarily a surprise. Some women progress from a closed cervix to 10 cm in a matter of hours once labor has begun, and others walk around for weeks 1 – 2 cm dilated without any contractions (4). But, it does mean that your body is making progress–that your cervix is beginning to open. The start of labor is marked by the presence of regular contractions that bring about continued dilation and effacement. What does this mean? Is labor starting? Not necessarily. You may have learned from a cervical check at your last prenatal appointment that you are a centimeter or two dilated. Learn more: Tips & Comfortable Sleeping Positions During Pregnancy Week 38 Pregnancy: 1 cm Dilated Try to keep a good sleep routine, use as many pillows and cushions as it takes to make yourself comfortable, and snag a little extra rest time during the day if you’re able. It’s no wonder you find it difficult to sleep. Not to mention that your back aches, your uterus randomly practices Braxton Hicks contractions, you may have heartburn, and your bladder is completely out of room and sends you to the bathroom frequently. You’re all belly these days, and it can be hard to find a way to get comfortable. These are absorbent circular pads that you place in your bra, and they come in both disposable and washable forms. If your breasts leak frequently, consider using nursing pads. You may see colostrum leaking from your breasts or notice a dry crust on your nipples. And, colostrum gives your baby nourishment until your breasts start making milk a few days after your little one is born (1,3). It contains proteins and antibodies that help boost baby’s immune system. Colostrumīefore your baby is born, your breasts begin producing colostrum, a highly nutritious fluid that’s your baby’s first milk (2). Along with your shifting hormones, these contractions are preparing your body for labor. Your contractions may seem to be set off by everything - exercise, a sneeze, bumping your belly, or absolutely nothing at all. Your uterus may be contracting more often and more strongly (3). You’ve likely been experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions for a while. No talk of late pregnancy symptoms is complete without mentioning the contractions that you may be feeling with increasing frequency. We’ve talked about contractions the last couple of weeks, but it’s worth mentioning again. For reference, it was about 2 ounces before you were pregnant! Isn’t your body incredible?! Week 38 Pregnancy: Symptoms Contractions It may be hard to believe it, but your uterus (just the uterus itself, not baby or anything else) now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (2). The top of your uterus is now 14 1/2 to 15 1/4 inches from the pubic symphysis, and 6 1/2 to 7 1/4 inches above your belly button (1). You probably feel like you’re all belly at this point. These stores, along with what he’ll get from breast milk, will meet his needs for the next 6 months (2). Cells in the lungs produce chemicals such as surfactant, which are needed for breathing after birth (1). (And really, what is cuter than baby chub?) He or she continues to gain weight, storing fat that will help with body temperature regulation.He or she is about 14 inches from crown to rump, or 19 2/3 inches from crown to heel (1). Your little one probably weighs in at around 6 3/4 pounds.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |