From now on, the focus will increasingly be on the upcoming birth. Extra attention is paid to the position of the fetus in relation to the pelvis, and all considerations regarding the birth should be thought through and discussed.
Preparations for Birth
The due date is getting closer and closer. Even closer is the period known as the due period, when it is most likely to give birth. It starts as early as week 38, which is just around the corner.
You will be monitored more and more closely by the midwife if you are following the course through the public system. The baby will often have engaged in the pelvis by now, which you might also feel, as some space is freed up for your lungs. Therefore, you will find it easier to breathe. Finally, something happens that does not further complicate your physical condition but eases it a little.
There may also be considerations in your course regarding the progress of the birth, where a cesarean section can be the solution. About 20% of all births in Denmark occur by cesarean section. The course leading up to it can happen in thousands of ways, and it can either be planned, or there may arise an acute need for a cesarean section during the birth or just before.
Talk to your midwife and your place of birth about your options. There are different options from region to region, and you may also have some wishes and hopes for this birth. It is a great advantage to have your expectations aligned beforehand, so you know the framework of what is realistic, but also so the midwife can write down your wishes.
One can very rarely think clearly during a birth, so if you have any wishes, tell them beforehand, so the midwife can help keep them in mind during the birth, if possible.
Every birth is different, and there are almost no two identical stories. Prepare for what you think you will need. Your intuition is the most important, and not everyone needs the same preparation.
What is happening in the womb?
The baby's lungs are fully developed, and the little one continues to practice the breathing techniques it will need when it enters the world. You might feel it hiccuping with small rhythmic beats, and this is just a sign that there is some good training going on. Some babies do not hiccup at all, but they have still been training hard on their breathing.
It is best if the fetus stays in the womb a little longer, but the chance of survival at birth at this time is 99%. In addition to the internal developments that are important for viability, the baby's proportions will also be equal to the proportions that will come out.
The fetus's fat will make up 15% of the total weight, and it will protect the little body when it has to meet the big world. In this week, the fat will also settle on the cheeks, and combined with the sucking muscles that will ensure the baby gets nourishment, the facial expression will also be similar to what will meet the reality of the world in a few weeks.
Size of the Fetus
The weight is approximately 2600 grams, and the length of the baby is about 46 centimeters.
Advice for Partners
Talk to each other about the upcoming birth. You probably had some ideas about births before the pregnancy, but many find that they change during the course.
Your role is also important, and you can benefit from actively participating in the birth preparation that you are involved in. There may be some techniques that you can also listen for, so you can help your birthing partner when the time comes.
Do you want to receive? Is there something you are afraid of? Do you have any wishes/dreams for the birth? All of this should also be considered in the preparations. You cannot plan your birth in any way, but you can certainly do some mental work beforehand.
