27 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby is usually very active and is still moving relatively freely. You are now two-thirds of the way to labour day – is that good news or bad news?! You may find that you’re more moody than usual, but don’t worry. This could be down to tiredness or hormones – or are you just a grump?
28 Weeks Pregnant
At 28 weeks the weight of the baby is 2lb 11oz and the head to bottom length is about 24cm. If born at 28 weeks most babies have a 95% chance of survival. Your antenatal visits might be more regular now. The doctors may check to see which position your baby is lying in.
29 Weeks Pregnant
In the next 11 weeks your baby will probably triple his weight. His organs are fully developed but will continue to mature in readiness for birth. You could start maternity leave this week if you notified your employer in good time.
30 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby’s immune system is starting to develop. He is at his most active just now because he is strong and still has plenty of room to move about. He continues laying down stores of fat and iron, the skin becomes paler and less wrinkled and lanugo disappears from the face.
31 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby is growing rapidly but is still less than half the weight of a full-term baby. If your baby is a boy, his testes will be beginning to descend into the scrotum. You may start antenatal classes this week – it’s a great chance to meet other pregnant women and chat.
32 Weeks Pregnant
Only eight weeks to go! You may have noticed considerable changes in your breasts, with the nipples becoming larger and darker. This is to make it easier for the baby to find them. If you have decided to use a TENS machine in labour, make sure you order one in plenty of time.
33 Weeks Pregnant
Now the fingernails reach the fingertips, the skin is pink and smooth and the body looks much more rounded. You’ll be thinking more about giving birth now. Don’t listen to the horror stories – no two births are alike.
34 Weeks Pregnant
The lanugo hair and vernix covering the baby are beginning to disappear. He weighs around 5lb. If you haven’t made a birth plan, you should discuss it with your midwife soon.
35 Weeks Pregnant
You may be experiencing tightenings in the uterus – these are known as Braxton Hicks contractions which help your body prepare for labour. These may be uncomfortable but should be painless.
36 Weeks Pregnant
By now, the toenails, which are slower to develop than the fingernails, reach the end of the toes. The limbs are flexed and the baby has a firm grasp. You may be asked to prepare a hospital bag this week – just in case! Most babies have assumed a head-down position by now, and his head may even have engaged. If this happens, your bump will drop and you might be able to breathe again.
37 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby is building up vital fat stores in preparation for his birth. You may be having mixed feelings – the birth is approaching too rapidly, but on the other hand you may be fed up with being pregnant!
38 Weeks Pregnant
Make sure you get plenty of rest, gentle exercise and good grub from now on to make sure you’re in the best possible shape for labour! Your baby would be considered full-term if he were born now.
39 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby is running out of room in there! You may have noticed a slowing down of movements, but if you’re at all worried, see your GP or midwife. You will be having weekly appointments by now.
40 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby is ready to be born – but many first babies like to hang on in there for a while. Every day over your due date seems like a week, but use the time to rest and indulge yourself. It’ll be the last chance you’ll get for at least 10 years!
Recommended Websites
Blooming Marvellous
The Blooming Marvellous store offers everything you may need during and after your pregnancy. Stylish yet functional maternity clothes, baby clothing, nursery equipment and much much more!
Mothercare
Mothercare provide a full range of products including maternity, nursery furniture, pushchairs, car seats, baby clothes, toys, gifts.
Early Learning Centre
ELC stock a great range of toys and games for babies and children of all ages that make learning fun, stimulate imagination and encourage development.
