Growing Along

Though you learned last week that a baby born about this time has a chance of survival, it is important to learn the signs of preterm labor so you can get immediate care if you experience any of them. Some of the signs include:

• Over five contractions or severe cramps in an hour
• Vaginal bleeding, especially bright red blood
• Gush of clear fluid, which is your water breaking and may feel like you are urinating on yourself
• Low, dull backache
• Intense pressure bearing down on the pelvic area

You will also want to watch for the signs of pre-eclampsia, a condition which can be serious and may end in bed rest for some women. Signs include:

• Swollen, puffy hands and ankles
• Sharp stomach pains, can be prolonged
• Vomiting, can be very intense

Do not go overboard looking for these signs because most women will not have to deal with any of this. It is important to just be aware of the warning signs so you can be treated as soon as possible if a problem does arrive.

Look at You Now:

You should be feeling some pretty strong kicks by this point. The movements may feel less all over the place and more concentrated and rhythmic. You should still be able to continue with your normal every day life, even though you may be more bothered than every with strangers wanting to touch or comment on your belly. Get used to hearing “how far along are you?”

If you are carrying multiples, you may find yourself on bed rest in the near future. This is necessary to prevent preterm labor in some pregnancies with more than one baby. You should really be feeling a lot of movement by now, so communicate with your babies and prepare for their arrival because life will change drastically once they come into your world.

Look at Baby Now:

The lungs will start developing branches around this week and all of the systems are still maturing in preparation of birth. The body is almost completely formed and will be picking up a lot of brown fat deposits to help retain heat in the body. Temperature regulation is not a strong suit for your little one just yet!

The amniotic fluid will start increasing at this point and will continue to do so until you give birth.  

Tips for Now:

Premature labor is more common in the summer time, possibly because more women become dehydrated during the warmer months. Make to drink a lot of water, especially if you are out walking in the heat and sweating a lot. If you are exercising regularly, make sure you drink plenty water before and after your workouts.