Your baby
Some days you’ll feel more movement than others – just like you, your baby will feel more energetic at some times than others.
Just because you may feel lots of kicks it doesn’t mean your baby is awake though – a lot of the action will take place when they are asleep! If you think your baby is moving much less than usual, or you’re worried, call your midwife.
At this stage your baby’s lungs have matured so their survival rate outside the womb is significantly higher.
Your baby’s body will be covered in fine lanugo hairs, these will probably disappear before they are born but some may still be visible.
You
Make sure you wear a good, supportive bra as your breasts continue to change. You may need to stop wearing contact lenses as the moisture in your eyes alters.
Stretching will help reduce stress on your body as it will help to reduce pain from muscle spasms. Yoga is a good form of exercise that you might want to try, but make sure you speak to your midwife before starting an exercise regime. Find out more about how to avoid back pain.
Your rapid weight gain may cause you to develop stretch marks around your tummy, hips and thighs. After your pregnancy, these often fade and become less apparent. Moisturising can help smooth the skin, but isn’t likely to stop you from getting them as they are often genetic.
If you need to keep moving your legs, you may be experiencing restless leg syndrome – the cause is unknown but is likely to be caused by a brain chemical called dopamine. Make yourself more comfortable by making sure you have enough iron in your diet and avoiding stimulants and exercise before bed.
Are your breasts leaking milk? Don’t panic – some pregnant women may find this happens when they are sexually stimulated, their breasts are massaged, and sometimes for no known reason!
What to think about
Even though your baby is already well developed by this stage, it is still vital that you eat well and look after yourself with moderate exercise. Keep up those pelvic floor exercises, and you’ll thank us later!
It may be a good time to have a think about your finances. Find out more about budgeting for a family.
Still thinking about what sort of birth you would like? There are several options available to you - such as a home, hospital or water birth. Talk to your midwife and ask for advice so you know what to expect.
