Many new changes occur each month to both mom and baby as you get closer and closer to your due date. At the same time, you are likely to experience a range of sensations and symptoms that will delight you. While some symptoms can be distracting at times, it’s comforting to know that what you’re feeling is quite normal. Be sure to call your physician or clinician with any questions about your pregnancy.
The changes that occur to your body during pregnancy are big! The pressure of your growing baby on your bladder may cause more frequent urination. Sleeping may require some position changes and strategic use of pillows as your growing baby and belly add new challenges to finding the coziest sleeping position. Most physicians recommend that you avoid laying flat on your back because the weight of the uterus presses on major arteries and veins that bring the blood supply to your pelvis and lower extremities.
It shouldn’t surprise you if you begin to feel a wide array of aches and pains, including backaches, haemorrhoids, heartburn, constipation, varicose veins, leg cramps and softening of ligaments. The change in your center of gravity will cause lower back discomfort/pain. Be careful about your posture, take care when lifting (or better yet, let someone else do the lifting) and wear shoes that are flatsoled and comfortable. Your uterus also puts the squeeze on your stomach, potentially causing heartburn.
Be sure to increase your vegetable/fruit servings, add some fiber and fluids, fluids, fluids - all will help to minimize constipation. Do not use any laxative products while pregnant - unless specifically recommended by your physician.
Haemorrhoids may become a problem for some women. This is especially true when constipation is also an issue. Your exercise tolerance may be less because the growing uterus makes it harder for your lungs to expand as fully as before pregnancy. This may cause you to feel a little short of breath - so slow down if you need to.
Swelling of your legs and feet is common during the last few months of pregnancy, as your uterus constricts the veins leading from the heart to the legs. Gravity pulls the blood down to the legs, but it has a hard time getting back up out of them. It’s important to promote blood flow in your extremities.
Use these tips to keep the swelling in your feet to a minimum:
During month six, the foetus’ skin is becoming less transparent as the foetus steadily gains fat and the integumentary system (skin, hair and nails) continues to mature. The internal organs are continuing to develop and become stronger. The foetus can now hear and becomes startled at loud bangs. Many women begin to listen to classical music or favorite tunes. Singing, or just the sound of mother’s voice, is now music to the delicate ears of this growing baby.
The top of your uterus is now well past your navel and you are most decidedly looking pregnant! The kicks, turns and twists are becoming stronger and you might find it fun to just look at your bare belly and watch the activity. The baby is now 28 - 36 cms. long and weighs about 900 grams - and you look beautiful.
Reference: Women's Health Connecticut, Inc. Physicians for Women's - a division of Women’s Health USA (WHUSA)
