
Hulk, Save Up Your Power!!
Another week behind, and now it’s the last, 9th month of pregnancy! Your pea has become such a pretty one — she is already a real baby with pink skin and plump legs. Her growth has slowed down so that she does not become too big inside, otherwise, it will not be easy to get out. The baby's weight is still increasing a bit, but that's still not a reason to eat a lot of cakes. ☺ Now the baby is already fully developed and begins to accumulate power for the upcoming important breakthrough — being born into the world. This process will require a lot of effort from her, so it's time for her to have a good rest and save energy. And for you also, by the way.
This week almost all the systems of your baby's little body are ready for life in our world. Blood circulation has improved, and your baby’s immune system is sufficiently developed to protect her from infections outside the uterus. Others, however, still need a few finishing touches. For example, digestion will remain immature for some time after birth. Why? The fact is that all 9 months the baby was feeding through the umbilical cord, which means that the digestive system, although developed, has not yet started. It will take about a year for the intestine to be colonized by beneficial bacteria, and for the process of digesting any food to be fully adjusted.
Other minor changes: the baby’s ears are nearly finished forming. Although the cartilage is still quite soft and mobile, it's gradually becoming denser, and the ears are taking on the right shape. And they hear so well! Do not forget to talk to the baby and sing songs — she will adore all these sounds after birth.
And the main news is that by the end of this week your baby will be considered full-term. So, you can no longer be afraid of preterm birth. By the way, if the little bully is still not turned head down, the doctor may offer you a special technique to help turn her (called an external version). True, this procedure is considered not entirely safe, and therefore, if you are afraid, it is better to limit yourself to special exercises and yoga postures for pregnant women, thanks to which the tiny one will occupy the correct position.
Measuring a baby:
Height:
Crown to rump: 13.4 in (34 cm)
Crown to heels: 18.7 in (47.4 cm)
Weight 6-6.6 lbs (2.7-3 kg)
From Hello Belly — a warm pregnancy companion with a daily tip and an assistant you can ask anything.
Get your week's tips