The last month of pregnancy is like a mixed bag of emotions, making the final preparations as your baby may arrive anytime near the due date. The baby is almost 3.3 kg and measures between 18-22 inches at birth. The baby’s organs are formed by now; with little room to move, you can still feel the kicks. Make sure to keep the track of the movements and the kicks. If you notice any deviation in the pattern, then call the doctor.

During this last stage, problems like swelling in hands and legs, hemorrhoids, sleeping and breathing problems, restlessness, leaky breasts, etc. are very common. Take good rest and try to remain busy, read good books, talk on baby care with friends, watch your favorite movie, etc. Relax and enjoy the last few days of your pregnancy in the best way.

Get ready for the special day!

• Go for a head or foot massage, get a nice haircut, go for romantic dinners or just gather friends on a cup of coffee. This will make your body and mind feel free, and you’ll be ready to face everything properly.
• Start writing blog or journal; express your thoughts and emotions freely and have fun.
• Prepare your hospital bag; keep everything that you would need for yourself and the baby. Don’t forget to keep the camera; the first click of the baby is priceless!
• Take regular walks with your partner, talk on baby names, décor and other things. Even daddy-to-be should come up with some ideas!
• Talk to your doctor; ask them about all the queries you have in your mind. Communicate your feelings so that doctor can give advice accordingly.
• Always keep the doctor’s number in hand, because you never know when the emergency occurs.

Changes in your baby:

By the eighth month of pregnancy, the baby weighs around three pounds eleven ounces (1.7 kilograms) and measures 40- 43 cm long. Your baby is getting ready to be born; the red blood cell production is done by the baby’s bone marrow. You can feel frequent reactions to the sound and touch. By the end of this month, baby will assume the final position. Brain, lungs and bones are still developing; baby still drinks the amniotic fluid which helps in developing the digestive system.

Changes in you:

You will gain 3 to 4 more pounds during this month. Increase in weight will lead to uneasiness, frequency of urination, shortness of breath, heartburn, backaches and anxiety. By the last few weeks, you will grow a bit so shop for larger maternity clothes. Dark line under the belly will become more noticeable, you will feel at least 10-12 movements of your baby every day. Due to uterus pressure, you may also feel painful sensations in hypochondrium. You will feel increase in the Braxton Hicks contractions, even the navel will stretch out with the increase in your size.

What you should do:

Take proper rest, use pillows for supporting your back. Visit your doctor regularly; go for routine checkups and discussions. If you face trouble while sleeping, drink something warm or take warm shower for getting relaxed. Eat healthy, fiber-rich foods; include loads of fresh, green vegetables and fruits. Keep yourself hydrated, drink plenty of water and water based products. Involve yourself in shopping for the new member; keep your hospital bag ready with all the essentials. Avoid raw food, caffeinated drinks and vigorous exercise or physical activities. Go for regular walks, read good maternity books or listen soothing music for relaxing yourself.