Week 33: Is it just me

Fetal development in pregnancy week 33:



fetus in eighth month
For all the weight and bulk you’re lugging around these days, you’d
think your little champ should weigh much more than a mere 5 lbs and
measly 17 inches in height, but nope, that’s about the average size for
a baby in its thirty-third week. In terms of appearances, they’re
getting cuter and pudgier every minute as they pile on the baby fat for
those adorable little wrist rolls and chubby toes. And as we’re sure
you’ve already noticed they’re getting stronger with every passing day.
Nowadays, it’s possible to observe a well-placed kick just by watching
your belly—but you already knew that didn’t you? Although they’re
getting stronger, your bigger-by-the-day baby is losing space to move
around, so the actual rate of movement will drop off in the last few
weeks, despite that powerful drop-kick they’ve been working on. Hey,
did you know you’ll continue feeling their movements even during labor?

And how's mom doing?
Here’s a good way to deal with your
mounting impatience: map out your plan of action for the big day. It’s
an important and necessary step that’s also pretty soothing and fun.
So, get out a piece of paper and pen. If you think about it, planning
all the details now can be a real saving grace once Massaging the perineum (the area around the vagina) can reduce your chance of it tearing during delivery
the chaos and pain of labor starts up. This would include having a
packed bag with a change of comfortable clothes, reading material,
maybe an i-pod and your camera or camcorder (whichever you decide, if
any at all). Know your driving route to the health center. Or if you’re
delivering at home, make sure you have the delivery room prepared
(equipped with your most favorite soothing music), and all necessary
instruments and materials ready for use. Of course, get your doctor or
midwife on speed-dial. Massaging the perineum (the area around the
vagina) can reduce your chance of it tearing during delivery and
there’s no time like the present to start. Be on your toes (not
literally, just mentally) as it's now totally conceivable you might
have to spring into action any day! Then again, it might still be
another seven weeks.