How Big is Your Baby?
In the week 38 of your pregnancy, the baby is 18.9 to 20.9 inches and weighs around 6.2 to 9.2 pounds. Baby's head is now of the same circumference as its abdomen.
Baby's growth and development
The baby at this stage already has around an inch or so of hair. Its even shedding the white goo on its skin known as vernix caseosa.
Mother's Development
Changes You Experience
At this stage, one may experience slight swelling in various parts of the body, like hands and feet. It is considered completely normal unless the swelling is excessive. In such rare cases, the woman might be suffering from pre-eclampsia or Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH).
You might start feeling electric hums in legs and pelvic region. This is due to the baby hitting your nerves while settling in the pelvic area. Cervix might start dilating or continue to dilate if it has started already, to prepare for the labor process.
Some common pregnancy symptoms at this stage include frequent urination, heartburn, back pain, changes in eating pattern and difficulty in sleeping. You will notice increase in discharge from vagina. Colostrum will surely start leaking from breasts by now.
Complications
If the mother has excessive swelling in feet, hands or face it might indicate pre-eclampsia. If the swelling is accompanied with vision changes, or bad headache, contact your doctor immediately.
At this point, start visiting your doctor at least once a week to ensure you and your baby are fine. A stress test can be taken in this week. This is used to monitor the baby’s movements and gives the mother an additional chance to bond with her baby.
Diet
You might feel more constipated now. To prevent this problem from aggravating, try eating a number of light and frequent meals. Limit the amount of calcium in your diet as it might cause hardening of stools.
Include more fibre in your diet by eating a number of fresh fibrous fruits and green vegetables, apart from a variety of grains. Light exercise keeps the body fit.
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