You are gradually getting used to being pregnant with all that it entails. It can be hard to breathe, you constantly need to pee, and people's comments about your growing belly are not uncommon. Fortunately, all of this means that a little life is growing inside you.
The body's preparations for the upcoming birth
Throughout the pregnancy, the body is preparing for the day when a birth will take place. This starts very early in the process, but it is probably not until around this week that you as a mother can begin to notice the preparations.
This means, among other things, that the joints around the pelvis become looser. As the baby and everything around it has grown, the joints have become softer to ensure a better passage through the birth canal for the child when it is time to enter the big world.
It is the hormone elastin that helps the joints become softer, thus preparing for the upcoming birth.
This can cause pain in the pelvis when loosening and softening occurs in the joints and similar areas. Not everyone struggles with this, but it can be very disabling and painful. If you suspect pelvic loosening or have severe pain in the pelvis, you can consult your doctor or midwife, who can help you with the best course of action.
What is happening in the belly?
The fetus is still growing, but there is still room for the little one to move around a lot in the belly.
At this point, many babies will have turned with their heads down and have their heads slightly engaged in the pelvis. This is indeed the optimal position for the baby to turn when it is time to come out of the belly.
When the mother goes for a check-up, the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus will also be assessed. This is done, among other things, to ensure that the baby's kidneys are functioning optimally. The amniotic fluid consists of 70-80% of the fetus's urine, and if the amount of amniotic fluid is not satisfactory, it may have something to do with kidney function. Fortunately, this is monitored by professionals, and you should not worry.
Size of the fetus
You are now carrying a fetus that weighs about 1.6 kilograms and is approximately 36 centimeters long.
Advice for the partner
Just as the mother's body is now beginning to indicate that it is preparing for birth, you can also prepare yourself. Mentally and physically. Perhaps you should try out some positions where you can help your partner relax.
It is a clear advantage for the birthing person to remain as relaxed as possible. Here, you are certainly an important piece, but it varies what can cause this. Perhaps it is close physical contact, and maybe it is help through words or similar. Try it out. It may not be the exact right thing when the birth finally comes, but do not be afraid to help and stay close. The mother really needs you.
