Weeks 36–37: Preparing for Birth

Your baby practices essential skills like swallowing and breathing in preparation for life outside the womb. By now, they likely weigh around 3 - 3.5  kg and measure around 50 centimetres (18-19 inches). You may feel more pelvic pressure as they descend lower, which can make breathing easier but may increase your bathroom trips.

Weeks 38–39: Final Growth Phase

Your baby continues to accumulate fat and gain weight. Movements may feel more restricted due to limited space, but you should still feel regular movement. By this stage, most babies are head-down, ready for delivery.

Week 40: Ready for Arrival

At 40 weeks, your baby is fully developed and ready to meet you! They likely weigh around 3–4 kg and measure about 20 inches. Weekly check-ups help monitor labour signs, and if you pass your due date, your doctor may discuss options.

Beyond 40 Weeks: Monitoring Post-Term

If your baby doesn’t arrive by week 40, your doctor may closely monitor you. By weeks 41–42, they might suggest induction to reduce the risks associated with prolonged pregnancies.

Organ Development

By the ninth month, your baby’s organs are almost fully functional. Lungs can support breathing, though some initial help may be needed. The brain grows rapidly, and the baby's senses sharpen.

Physical Features

Your baby has gained weight, looking more like a newborn. Skin is smooth, lanugo, and the delicate, soft, unpigmented hair on the foetus has mostly disappeared, and fingernails are present. Movements lessen but stay strong.

Weight of the foetus

By month’s end, your baby typically weighs 2.5–4.5 kg and measures 50–55 cm. They continue to gain weight and strength, preparing for birth.

Baby Movement

With limited space, movements are more restricted, except for arm and leg motions. Kicks may be felt under the ribs as the baby moves into a head-down position.

Growing Belly

Your belly is now quite large, possibly making it hard to see your feet! Tight, stretched skin and new stretch marks are common. Use extra pillows to support and ease sleeping difficulties.

Breathing Difficulties

As your baby moves lower, lung pressure eases, but shortness of breath may persist due to extra weight. Sitting upright and breathing slowly can help reduce discomfort.

Frequent Urination

Your baby’s head pressing on your bladder causes frequent trips to the bathroom, especially at night. Stay hydrated during the day to minimise interruptions to your sleep.

Back and Pelvic Pain

Back and pelvic pain intensifies as your baby drops lower. Standing or walking may become uncomfortable. A pregnancy pillow can help ease lower back or hip discomfort.

Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions, common now, are irregular and not painful but may feel slightly uncomfortable. These practice contractions are your body’s way of preparing for labour.

Foods to Eat:

• Protein-rich foods: Protein is crucial for your baby’s growth and development. Include plenty of protein-rich foods such as chicken, fish, tofu, eggs, and legumes. These foods will also help you feel full longer and keep your energy steady.
• Calcium-rich foods: Your baby’s bones are developing rapidly, so getting enough calcium is important. Foods like milk, cheese, yoghurt, and leafy greens are excellent sources.
• Iron-rich foods: Iron supports oxygen transport for both you and your baby. Eating iron-rich foods like lentils, spinach, red meat, and beans can help prevent anaemia.
• Healthy fats: In the ninth month, your baby’s brain is still developing, so healthy fats are essential - add foods like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil to your diet.
• Whole grains: Complex carbohydrates provide lasting energy. Try including whole grains like brown rice, oats, and whole-wheat bread in your meals.

Foods to Avoid:

• High-Mercury Fish: Fish like swordfish, mackerel, and sharks may harm your baby’s development. Opt for low-mercury options like salmon, cod, and trout.
• Raw or Undercooked Meat: Avoid raw or undercooked meats to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
• Caffeine: Excessive caffeine can impact your baby’s development. Consider reducing caffeine intake or choosing caffeine-free options like herbal tea or fresh fruit juices.
• Unpasteurized Dairy: Unpasteurized milk and cheese can carry harmful bacteria, so it’s best to stick to pasteurized versions for safety.

Safe Exercises to Do

• Walking: Walking is a gentle and effective way to stay active. A daily walk can improve circulation, help manage weight gain, and relieve some back and pelvic discomfort.
• Swimming: Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise that can reduce joint pain and swelling. The water’s buoyancy supports your weight, easing pressure on your joints.
• Prenatal Yoga: Prenatal yoga improves flexibility, balance, and relaxation and can help with common pregnancy aches and pains. Many women find that yoga helps them feel more prepared for labour.
• Pelvic Floor Exercises: Kegel exercises are especially beneficial in the ninth month. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles aids in delivery and postpartum recovery.

Exercises to Avoid:

• High-Impact Exercises: Avoid running, jumping, or other high-impact activities that place strain on joints and the abdomen, as they may increase the risk of injury.
• Heavy Weightlifting: Lifting heavy weights can strain the back and core, leading to discomfort and even injury.
• Abdominal Exercises on Your Back: Exercises done lying flat can reduce blood flow to your baby and may make you feel lightheaded.
• Balance-Dependent Movements: Avoid activities requiring balance or agility, like cycling or skiing, due to the higher risk of falls.
• Intense or Contact Sports: High-intensity or contact sports, such as football, basketball, or kickboxing, carry collision or injury risks and are unsafe at this stage.

Blood Pressure

These screenings help detect preeclampsia, a potentially serious condition in late pregnancy. Early detection ensures timely care, reducing risks for both mother and baby.

Fetal Growth Monitoring

Doctors track growth by measuring fundal height—the distance from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus. If concerns arise, additional ultrasounds or investigations may be suggested.

Checking Baby’s Position

During each visit, your doctor will check if your baby is head-down—ideal for vaginal birth. If the baby is breech, they’ll discuss possible options to encourage proper positioning.

Biophysical Profile for High-Risk Pregnancies

For high-risk cases, a weekly biophysical profile (BPP) after 36 weeks assesses the baby’s movement, breathing, and heart rate, ensuring they’re thriving as delivery nears.

Mental Health

In month 9, your body enters the final phase of pregnancy, adapting beautifully to support your baby’s arrival—a true testament to your incredible strength.

Take a moment to appreciate your journey and how far you’ve come. Share any concerns with your healthcare provider for guidance, support, and reassurance as you prepare to welcome your little one into the world!