Pregnancy Week 36

You are showing signs of labor which tells you that delivery time is here.
Welcome to the 36th week of your pregnancy.

Mother’s Changes :
The average weight gain for you now is 25-30 pounds. You have to consume 2400 calories per day. The body gets tired easily and needs a lot of fuel. You can also take a tour of the hospital if you have not already.

There are some signs of labor that start showing at this stage.

The thinning of the cervix and the dilation has just started. You may experience lightening, that is the baby droping into the mother’s pelvis region, preparing itself for the labor. You may feel hungrier as the baby does not create pressure into the intestines or stomach now.  If you have any leaking of the amniotic fluid, you should inform the practitioner immediately.

You may still have difficulty going to sleep and feel fatigued and exhausted. You may have to go to the bathroom more often than usual because the baby is creating pressure in the lower abdomen. You may find a number of small meals suits you better instead of 3 bigger meals.  You can continue with exercises and breathing exercises. This is the time you can catch up with a lot of reading.

Prepare for the baby – After the baby comes home you have to be on your toes and so you won’t have much time to plan things like her nursery or the crib. You can do these now.

Baby’s Growth :
The baby is almost ready to drop into the birth canal at any time. The fat dimples on the baby’s elbows & knees are there and creases in the wrists and the neck. The gums of the baby are very rigid.

The tiny body you had seen in the ultrasounds is now a plump baby. The baby has a full face and powerful sucking muscles. Now she weighs a little less than six pounds.
The baby’s skull bones can overlap while the baby moves inside the pelvis. This is known as molding and if your baby is born with a head that is misshapen, don’t be surprised. After a few days the head will get back its shape.

The bones and genital development is also complete.

Father’s Role :
It is difficult holding a new born, especially when their necks are so soft, but you will slowly gain confidence and get used to the habit of holding this dear, cuddly darling who is your very own.  Just remember to support the baby’s head and neck well when nursing and picking up and putting down the baby. You can do whatever the mom does to the baby except breast-feed. So be prepared to take turns in nursing the baby. You’ll develop a deep bond with your child if you are involved.

Inspiration of the week :
Pray for a safe delivery and a healthy child to grace your arms.

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