How Big is Your Baby?

Wow! The baby has now finally reached the full term. Its likely to measure around 18.9 to 20.9 inches and weighs 6.2 to 9.2 pounds. It's gaining about 1/2 ounce every day.

Baby's growth and development

In the week 37 of your pregnancy, the baby is practicing some vital skills like inhaling, sucking, exhaling, gripping and blinking. Its even getting ready the first sticky poop known as meconium.

Mother's Development

Changes You Experience

From now on, the mother will experience little or no change in the size of the uterus. The weight gain is also insignificant. The total weight gain can be anywhere between 28-35 pounds approximately. The amount of amniotic fluid inside the womb starts decreasing now. The frequency of Braxton Hicks contractions increases significantly.

You may pass mucous plugs now. Mucous plug serves to protect the baby by blocking the opening of cervix. The uterus starts dilating now, thereby expelling the mucous plug sooner or later. The expecting mothers will feel an increased pressure on the pelvic bones due to the weight of the baby. The vaginal discharge will increase now. If blood spots accompany the discharge then it indicates that the delivery date is nearing.

Complications

As mentioned earlier, there may be blood along with your vaginal discharge. If the amount of blood is more than normal, one must consult the doctor immediately. Some women can be under the attack of Group B infection. The doctor will run a test on the mother in such a situation, and provide the mother with antibiotics to prevent the entry of bacteria that can harm the baby.

Diet

There is nothing special that needs to be included in this week's diet. Just try to include a variety of citrus fruits and green vegetables, meat, eggs and dairy products in your diet. Ensure that you eat a number of light meals and keep yourself hydrated.

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