Your baby
If you’re feeling rather heavy and immobile now, spare a thought for your baby, who has less room to move by the day.
Movement in the womb is important though as it encourages bone strengthening and helps build muscle mass.
Your baby is now gaining layers of fat so they will appear less skinny, and the skin will now become pinker and less transparent.
Scans show that babies have brain patterns like adults in dream sleep, indicating that babies do dream in the womb at this stage.
You
You may notice more Braxton Hicks contractions and could start to get more anxious about the approaching birth.
Don’t worry if your belly button is protruding, it’s caused by your growing uterus and will go back to normal a few months after pregnancy.
Keep yourself hydrated and make sure you are eating healthily.
Make sure you are supporting your growing body. You may be experiencing back pain so take the appropriate steps to alleviate the stress or, your breasts as they change may feel full and heavy – make sure you’re wearing a well-fitted bra.
What to think about
It’s a good idea to pack your hospital bag now. Even if you’re planning a home birth, pack one just in case!
At your antenatal appointment, your midwife will have a look at your baby’s lie and presentation on an ultrasound. If your baby is still in a breech position in weeks 35 onwards, you may have to have another scan in weeks 37-38 to see if he’s moved.
During labour you will be offered pain relief. Make sure you know what’s available to you.
Have you decided on a name yet? A lot of parents don’t decide until they meet their newborn but it might be an idea to have a few in mind.
