Week 39 (counting
from first day of last menstrual period) Around 37
Weeks After Conception
Fetal
Development: Most of the lanugo is gone as
the baby prepares for its final womb days. The lungs are
maturing and surfactant production is increasing.
The baby can't move too much anymore as its womb
space has become very crowded.
The average size
baby is over seven pounds at this point.
Maternal Changes: Are
you feeling huge and clumsy? As the baby settles into
your pelvis (lightening), your center of gravity shifts
which may make you feel off-balance. The good news is,
the uterus isn't pressing on your diaphragm so it's
easier to breathe. The bad news is, your uterus is
pushing on your bladder so you may be running to the
bathroom every two minutes.
Your uterus is 6 1/2
to 8 inches above your navel!
Ideas for
Dad: Congratulate yourself Dad! You're
almost a father (or father again), and you've survived
(almost) the pregnancy. You're probably a nervous wreck
or in denial that anything is about to happen, but
that's okay. In a few days (weeks), you won't remember
what you had for breakfast (or even IF you had
breakfast) let alone the anxiety you're having right
now. Enjoy these last moments with mom as a couple or as
a family of 3 (or 4, whatever your situation is) and pat
yourself on the back for being a great dad. After all,
if you weren't a great dad, you wouldn't be reading this
guide!

|