If you are still carrying your little one around, know that he or she will come out any day now! In Week 39, let’s take a look at how to prepare for the birth by reviewing breathing exercises and checking that everything you might need is packed in your hospital bag.
MOM
In Week 39 the amount of pressure your uterus is giving your poor bladder results in the fact that you might feel the need to go to the bathroom every five minutes. By now it’s also time to ask yourself whether you are mentally and physically ready to take on the task of labour. Review all your preparations – especially breathing techniques. Also, chat to your partner to make sure he is ready and has packed your hospital bag and fitted your baby’s car seat. If your weekly appointment with your practitioner tells you that your cervix has dilated a couple of centimetres, it means that your body is getting ready to give birth. It doesn’t, however, give any indication of labour starting soon. So keep waiting patiently and look out for those real and rather painful contractions getting regular and stronger.
BABY
Your baby can’t move around much anymore as his or her size results in rather limited womb space. By Week 39 the lungs are maturing and most of your baby’s lanugo (fine body hair) is gone. He or she has also stocked up on fat, so whether you give birth tomorrow or next week – your baby is going to be completely ready to face the outside world. If your baby is born this week he or she might even be able to lift his or her head off your shoulder, and will definitely be able to tell you if he or she is hungry and uncomfortable.
DAD
It’s important to remember to take a camera to the hospital. You want to make absolutely sure you have packed one, as you don’t get another chance to capture those first few memories! Also, enjoy quality time with your partner as much as you can. Before you know it a new life will enter your family – demanding just about all the attention and care you can possibly give. If you don’t already know how to change a nappy, consider borrowing a baby in order to practice, or simply ask someone for advice.
That’s it for Week 39 of your pregnancy. Next week we’ll take a look at the final stages of pregnancy and how keep being prepared for labour. Until then, stay calm!
Decide on a book or baby clinic whose approach you believe in and follow their routine no matter how many different, wild ideas you get from friends and family members.
Sometimes a baby brings out the soppiest side of you; there is just no end to your coo-ing. Other times they bring out the absolute worst in you! Elzet Pedersen
Focus on the Family Complete Guide to Baby & Child Care: From Pre-Birth Through the Teen Years by Paul C. Reisser. This complete guide to child rearing takes a balanced, commonsense approach to raising emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually healthy children and teens. This indispensable guide delivers practical and critical information parents need to know in a straightforward format.
Girls:
Kyra
Lara
Kayleigh
Annabelle
Boys:
Ezra
Ash
Marc
Benjamin
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