Your third trimester is finally here, congratulations! In about twelve weeks you’re going to be holding your little bundle of joy in your arms. Until then, we’re going to take a look at the some early labour signs and check in on how your pregnancy is progressing.
MOM
This week we thought it best to discuss some of the signs of early labour. This is not to say that we are pre-empting any complications, but it is always best to be armed with all the right information in the event thereof. The warning signs of early labour include a low, dull backache, pelvic pressure, increase or change in vaginal discharge, menstrual-like cramping, abdominal cramping as well as uterine contractions – which occur every 10 minutes or even more frequently. If you experience these symptoms, it is best that you call your doctor or midwife without delay.
Something that your doctor might be concerned about is the blood tests that were done in your first prenatal appointment – determining whether you’re Rh-positive or Rh-negative. If your doctor tells you that you are Rh-positive it means that you possess a protein on the surface of your red blood cells. If you are Rh-negative, you don’t have that protein. Approximately 85% of the population are Rh-positive. If the tests showed that you are Rh-negative, you will receive an Rh immunoglobulin injection, which will stop your body developing antibodies that might attack your baby’s blood. While we’re on the subject, should your baby land up being Rh-positive, you’ll receive another Rh immunoglobulin injection after the birth.
BABY
This week your baby is developing eyelashes to go along with his or her eyebrows and eyes – which are now open. He or she is also continuing to “fatten up” – the body is now made up of between two and three percent of body fat. Muscle tone is also starting to improve in Week 28.
The following image is courtesy of standupgirl.com
DAD
After all this talk of early labour and Rh tests, your partner might be feeling a little stressed out. Why not get her to put her feet up so that you can give her a foot massage? Apart from the fact that she’s already battling to reach her toes, your partner will definitely be grateful for the pampering. A foot massage might also alleviate any swelling that she might have around her ankles.
Your third trimester will continue next week, when we discuss just why Baby is moving a little less.
It may be a good idea to get your husband or partner to read up on "Delivering a Baby" in case you go into labour unexpectedly and cannot get to the hospital in time. What better person to deliver your child than your very capable husband. In all likelihood, this won't happen but remember that anything is possible!
m> Life is always a rich and steady time when you are waiting for something to happen or to hatch. E.B. White, Charlotte's Web
Waiting for Christopher by Sam Cowen. When fiesty, forthright radio personality Sam Cowen decides to have a baby, it doesn't occur to her that she won't be able to handle the project with her quintessential sense of humour intact.
Girls:
Natalie
Nici
Olivia
Olga
Boys:
Oden
Pierce
Parker
Quinn
 |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |
 |  | ||