Week 39: The waiting game.....

Fetal development in pregnancy week 39:



fetus in ninth month
Whether you give birth tomorrow or next week, it's pretty much all the
same for your baby, who is now truly R-E-A-D-Y to face the big bright
world outside of your womb. Speaking of wombs, your body is priming up
for the big moment and hopefully, you're as prepared mentally as you
can be. Your baby is well stocked up on fat, all their organs have put
on the finishing touches. Here's hoping your child is already in the
birthing position and basically just "hanging out" waiting for that
elusive moment when all sysytems synchronize in your body to trigger
the labor process.

And how's mom doing?
We know you're antsy for the big moment,
but let's step back a minute and talk about what it takes to get to the
point where you’re finally holding your sweet little miracle in your
arms. Are you mentally ready to embark on the oh-so-fun adventures of
labor? Take a moment to review all your preparations If you're giving birth at the hospital, don't forget socks, they always over air-condition the place
for handling the pain (breathing techniques etc.). Don't forget you're
going to have some physical signs prior to labor: 1) you'll lose the
mucous plug sometime before labor sets in, 2) the good ol' water
breaking (doesn't happen to all women), 3) and finally, before the
contractions kick in, it's likely you'll see some brownish-red
discharge in your underwear-- charmingly called "bloody show."And
how about all those little details? Have you got yourself a back-facing
infant seat for the ride home? Is their adorable "first outfit" all
packed up? Where's that list of family and friends you're going call
with the happy news? Do NOT forget the camera!!! If you're giving birth
at the hospital, don't forget socks, they always over air-condition the
place. Also, if you're not having a home birth, bring your pillow, you
know it's better and comfier than anything they're going to provide for
you. Lastly, have you ironed out all the details of your birth plan
with your caregiver? It's best to clarify all your preferences prior to
serious labor, because once you're puffing like, well, a woman in
labor, it's highly unlikely you're going to have the presence of mind
to talk it out clearly.