The 40th week is most probably the last week of the gestation period. By this time, the baby is ready to enter the world. Some women might move to 41st or the 42nd week, which is called being over the full term. The 40th week is being discussed in detail here:
Development of the baby:
- The average baby is around 20 inches in length and weighs between 7 to 9 pounds. Ideally boys weigh slightly more than girls.
- All the baby’s bones become hard, except the skull. The skull remains soft so that the baby is delivered easily. Generally all newborn babies look just the same, with a big head and short neck. Baby’ head has soft spots called fontanels which make it easy for the baby to fit in the birth canal. These spots harden during the early months after the baby is born.
- As soon as the baby is born, he or she will have the first examination known as APGAR. This test is conducted in a minute after delivery and repeated again after 5 minutes. This is the quick overall assessment of the baby based on parameters. A 7 to 10 score on this test is considered up to the mark.
Changes in the mother:
- The weight gain and size of the expectant mother remains the same now.
- It might be very difficult for you to move around during these days, but remember the baby is set to arrive extremely soon now.
- The labour process consists of three stages. The first stage is the dilation of cervix, which begins with the contractions. When you recognize that the contractions are real ones and not false alarm, you must reach the hospital.
- The second stage begins after the cervix has dilated properly. During this stage, the mother is asked to push the baby. This process makes the baby come down in the birth passage, for being born.
- When the baby’s head appears through vaginal opening after repeated contractions and pushing, and does not slip inside again, it is known as crowning. During this, the mother will experience a burning and tingling sensation in the area, as the baby stretches the opening of vagina. At this point, the mother must stop pushing or she might need an episiotomy.
- The last stage is the delivery of the placenta. In most cases, the nerves in the area become blocked due to stretching and the mother does not feel this stage due to this reason.
Attachment with the baby:
- Almost all the mothers eagerly await the birth of their baby, but are equally scared about the pain and trauma they will have to face during labour. They share their fears and apprehensions with their partner, doctor or elderly females of the family, which can help calm her down.
- If the baby is born this week, the mother will undoubtedly be ecstatic. The joy of holding her newborn in her arms for the first time is such that she forgets all her pain and trouble that she has put through during the labour. She experiences the love of motherhood for the first time.
Complications and tips:
- One must get the non-stress test conducted by now. This helps in monitoring the baby’s vital statistics and the mother can feel the baby’s heartbeat during this process.
- Consult the doctor in advance to know about the early stages of labour. It is important that you decide upon a technique to help labour get started before the situation actually arises.
- A common concern at this stage is caesarean birth. If the baby is not upside down in the womb, the doctor will conduct the delivery by operating on the mother. This is not a cause of concern as the doctors are well-equipped in handling such situations.
Tip for the father:
- During anytime this week, your partner might deliver your baby. It is important that you stay alert, focussed and calm during this week to ensure there are no problems in the delivery process.
- Also, be prepared to face the not-so-pleasant situation inside the labour room. It might not be a pretty sight and your partner might cry in agony or even shout at you, but it is important that you do not freak out and remain supportive throughout the birth.
Diet:
There are no specific requirements of the diet during this stage. Just ensure that you have a number of light meals throughout the day to ensure that you remain full without feeling giddy or bulky.
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