This is the last month of your pregnancy, 9 months pregnant period. and now there are only a few days left to actually feel the little one in your arms. Now is the right time to be prepared with all the essentials that you need for your hospital stay. Though you might be a bit fatigued, you are bound to feel happy when you pack and prepare for your big day.
During your last visit to the obstetrician, clear all your queries regarding labor and delivery. Don’t hesitate from asking what has been bothering you. It is advisable that you meet an obstetrician each week during the last month. It is the most critical period and the doctor will be performing an internal exam to check your cervix for changes that indicate the labor signs.
What happens to you when you are 9 months pregnant?
As your baby is still growing, they will gain significant weight during this month. Some women may also notice a weight reduction during this month because of the drop in the levels of amniotic fluid.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
You may feel more frequent contractions as you are very near to your due date. The real contractions will be:
- They won’t stop even when you move or alter your position.
- They start in the back and slowly radiate around your abdomen.
- Contractions occur more than five times in an hour.
- Contractions last for 30 to 70 seconds.
- They increase in force as time passes.
- Their intensity increases when you walk around.
- They come at regular intervals.
Some other signs that indicate the leakage of amniotic fluid are sudden diarrhea, leakage of mucus plug, and more. The dilation of the cervix starts and it becomes thinner as it nears birth.
Frequent urination
Your frequent bathroom visits will continue during the ninth month of pregnancy also. The increase in baby weight will put greater pressure on the bladder. The frequent urge to urinate also increases. Embryonic development
Increased fatigue
Most women experience low energy levels during the 9th month of pregnancy. Don’t worry; this is perfectly fine as the baby is still developing. The baby will gain weight and grow. You may feel very uncomfortable with the increased pressure. It is advisable that you take as much rest as possible.
Increased swelling
Swelling on ankles and feet will be visible. Some other visible signs could be a slight bulging in your face.
What happens with your baby when you are 9 months pregnant?
During the 9th month of pregnancy, your baby will gain around half a pound each week. By the end of the month, the baby would weigh around 6 to 9 pounds and would be 19 to 21 inches long. When you have completed pregnancy week 38th, the baby is said to be fully formed.
Lung development
By this month, the baby’s lungs have an adequate level of surfactant which allows them to survive outside the womb.
Bone development
Bones in the baby’s head are soft and flexible to allow easy passage through the pelvis. There is rapid blood flow through the umbilical cord that prevents it from getting twisted.
Some other developments include:
- The ability of kidneys to produce more urine than before
- Baby’s Hair becomes thicker
- Nails grow longer
- Quick response to reflex actions
What are the physical changes that occur in a 9 months pregnant woman?
You will continue to gain weight. Your breasts will become even bigger and tender. You will see a total transformation in your physical appearance by the end of the 9th month.
Most women look huge, bloated, and unattractive but you don’t need to worry. These are indicative signs of a pregnant woman. You will get back to your perfect shape after giving birth. All you would need to do is invest your time in postpartum exercises and a proper diet.
If you notice more painful contractions and odorless and colorless vaginal discharge, then it is the appropriate time to call the midwife.
It is very difficult to maintain calm and stay relaxed in such a situation. But, all you need to do is think positively about all the good times which lie ahead. Invest your time in reading about the first few initial months of your baby. Stay as composed as to can to avoid panic and moments of tension and nervousness. Undoubtedly, soothing music and a warm bath can come to your rescue.
What care should be taken by a 9 months pregnant woman?
With the increased belly size, it will become more difficult for you to breathe. So, it is better to learn a few breathing techniques and join prenatal yoga classes.
Make yourself mentally and physically prepared for the upcoming events in your life. Maintain a healthy diet and take vitamin supplements regularly. Eat small amounts several times and take healthy foods.
Also, it is highly recommendable that you don’t smoke or drink alcohol as it can severely harm your baby. Feel proud of yourself for facing all these challenges and discomforts. You won’t even realize when this long-awaited moment will fill your life with joy and happiness. Tighten your seat belt before you experience this roller coaster ride. This will help you deal with labor pain in a better way. Have a happy and safe delivery!!!
