Week 36
(counting
from first day of last menstrual period)
Around 34
Weeks After Conception
 Fetal
Development:
With four weeks to go, our baby
is almost ready. S/he could drop into the birth canal at
any time now. This week, the fat is dimpling on the
elbows and knees as well as forming creases in the neck
and wrists. The baby's gums are very rigid.
Multiples: Twins may be around 5 pounds
now. The National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs
(NOMOTC) reports that the average birth weight of a twin
is 5 pounds, 5 ounces and arrives between the 36th and
37th week.
Maternal Changes:
About a month to go ~ you'll probably be visiting your
care provider once a week at this point. The average
weight gain now is between 25 and 30 pounds. You should
be consuming about 2400 calories per day. Make them
count! Your body is working hard now and needs quality
fuel.
If you haven't been tested for Group B
Strep, ask your caregiver about it. It's also a good
time to take a tour of the hospital/birth facilities if
you haven't yet.
Multiples:
You're probably really ready to get "this over with" as
you become increasingly uncomfortable. Discuss your
feelings with your doctor. Talk to your local Twins club
for support.
Signs of Labor:
Here are some of the signs that labor is approaching.
You may not experience all of these symptoms or be aware
of them.
Ideas for Dad:
It's a
bit beyond the scope of this guide to create a parenting
"how-to" for newborns. However Dad, there are a few
basics you need to know.
* Yes, you WILL be
nervous about picking up a human being that is slightly
larger than a football knowing that it is YOUR child.
* You will NOT be asphyxiated when you change Baby's
poopy diaper.
* Baby's vomit is not toxic waste, and
you will NOT die of poisoning when Baby spits up an
entire feeding on your new shirt.
Seriously, it
is nerve-wracking to hold a squirming baby, especially
when their little necks are so floppy. The more you hold
and handle your baby, the more comfortable you'll
become. You should be able to do whatever Mom does for
the baby, except of course, breastfeed. You'll develop a
deeper bond with Baby and s/he with you by being
involved.
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