During weeks 36 and 37, women enter their pregnancy 9th month, where the development of the fetus is fast approaching completion. Women will notice some newer physical symptoms such as the belly slightly drooping down and the secretion of colostrum by the breasts.
What happens during week 36 of pregnancy?
By this time, the fetus is curled up in the uterus as there is little room left to move about freely. The pregnancy week 36 baby weight is close to 2.5kg, and they measure over 45cm. Their lungs and digestive system have developed fully at this stage to enable them to survive being born prematurely. They can breathe and digest milk even if they are born at this point, and they will be considered full-term in 2 weeks. Most fetuses move from their breach position to ‘engage’ during these weeks. The pregnancy 9th month baby position is generally inverted with the head pointing down and the bottom pointing up. However, some babies engage just before labour starts.
If the baby has engaged, women will notice a difference in the position of their belly as it appears to have drooped down a little. This would also exert more pressure in the pelvic region, making them want to go to the toilet often. During the doctor visits, women will be checked for group B streptococcus (GBS) or group B strep. The GBS is a bacteria that thrives in the vagina of about 1 in 20 women. During labour, there is a risk of the bacteria getting transmitted to the baby and cause a severe infection; if GBS is detected during pregnancy week 36 strep test, it can be treated with a dose of antibiotics during labour.
What happens during week 37 of pregnancy?
As the fetus approaches week 37, it is close to being full term and will have all the features and appearance of a newborn baby. They would have gained more weight to reach 3.0kg and measure close to 48cm from head to toes. Their reflexes have also developed, and they can grip objects firmly with their hands. The intestines of the fetus contain meconium, a sticky green substance that will become their first excrement soon after they are born.
Women will notice that their breasts start to leak colostrum as the due date gets closer. Colostrum is the first milk produced by breasts that is full of fat and antibodies. If excess production of colostrum is bothersome, breast pads can be used to ease the symptoms. It is also normal to experience more than usual vaginal discharge; however, it’s important to discuss with the doctor if the discharge is green or brown and smelly or if it leads to soreness or itchiness. Sleep disturbances can be expected because of the excess weight and the stress of the heavy belly. It is important to get as much rest as possible throughout the day.
Wrapping Up
Towards the end of the 37 weeks, the fetus is about to enter a full term. They continue to gain weight rapidly, and women need to be more cautious of their activities. It is essential to understand the signs of labour and differentiate them from the Braxton hicks contractions.
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