It’s officially the start of the last month of your pregnancy and there are just four more weeks to go till you give birth. By pregnancy week 36, all the systems of your baby would be completely developed and working. All you can do now is wait, plan and prepare for your baby to arrive. If it’s been a while since you took child birth classes, it would be a good idea to reread things again before it’s time. If you feel like it, go for a nice dinner with your partner. It might be some time before you both will get to spend some quality moments alone once the baby is here.
How’s the Baby Doing At Pregnancy Week 36 ?
By now, your baby would almost be the size of honeydew, measuring 17.2 to 18.7-inch in length and weighing around 4.2 to 5.8 pounds. At pregnancy week 36, your baby will have smooth and soft skin, and fully developed rigid gums. Your baby’s liver, kidneys, immune system and circulation system would also be fully developed and in working order by now. It will also become easier for the baby to breathe without help, and this function would get better by the time of birth.
The Symptoms At Pregnancy Week 36
The symptoms you will be experiencing in this week include:
• Difficulty in sleeping due to discomfort, anxiety and frequent bathroom trips. Try to relax as much as you can, even if it seems impossible.
• Increase in swelling, especially in ankles and foot.
• Increase in heartburn
• Pelvic discomfort as your baby moves lower. However, this will give your lungs more space, bringing an end to the breathlessness you were experiencing earlier.
What to Do?
Go visit your OB for another prenatal visit and discuss with them if you need to take a non-stress test. If they recommend this test, schedule it right away. If you are still going to work, it is essential now that you finalize your maternity leave plan by this week and take a break from your busy schedule. Premature labor is said to be brought on by a gum infection in some cases so pay close attention to your dental health at this time by brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist.