Pregnancy Week 37
Ready, Set, Almost Go!
Week 37 marks a significant milestone in your pregnancy journey. You've reached the full-term stage, and the finish line is finally in sight! As you prepare for the arrival of your little one, week 37 brings with it a mix of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a few surprises along the way. Let's explore what to expect during this pivotal week.
Full-Term Status:
Congratulations, you've officially entered the full-term phase of pregnancy! Your baby is now considered fully developed and ready for the world, which is both exhilarating and a little nerve-wracking. It's like being at the starting line of a race, knowing that the finish line is just around the corner.
Get ready to become a little “Nesting Crazy”:
In the next couple of weeks you may find that you have the urge to get everything in its rightful place. It doesn’t matter that the cup was in use - it was put down for more than five seconds so it needs moving!
That said, not everyone feels the need to put their marigolds on! Some of us are quite content to just rest!
You may find yourself rearranging the nursery, sterilising baby bottles with meticulous care, and washing baby clothes for the umpteenth time. This is your body's way of getting everything in order for the big day. You may find you get your partner to nest for you!
Physical Changes and Discomfort:
Your baby may still be quite high up and just getting ready to drop a little further down into the pelvis as it gets ready to arrive. Until that happens you may have started to notice that you are a little more out of breath as all of your internal organs are pushing up against your lungs. Try to take things as easy as possible and do speak to a midwife if you are significantly out of breath.
Emotions on Overdrive:
It is not unusual to suddenly be hit by the enormity of what lies ahead and find yourself in floods of tears at the supermarket checkout. This is quite normal and you probably just need a big hug. Make sure you are sharing how your feel with your partner, friends and family.
False Alarms:
In week 37, it's not uncommon to experience Braxton Hicks contractions or other signs that could mimic the start of labour. While these can be exciting, they often turn out to be "practice contractions." Keep an eye on them, but unless your water breaks or contractions become regular and more intense, carry on with your daily routine.
Stay Relaxed and Rested:
Amid the excitement, don't forget to prioritise self-care. Getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and practicing relaxation techniques can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for the big day ahead.
Week 37 of pregnancy marks a significant milestone as you prepare to welcome your little one into the world. Your nesting instincts are on full display, your body is undergoing noticeable changes, and your emotions are a whirlwind. Embrace the unique experiences and challenges of this phase, stay relaxed, and take care of yourself as you prepare for the exciting journey ahead. You're almost there, and soon you'll be holding your precious baby in your arms! Enjoy these final weeks of pregnancy; they are a special part of your incredible journey into motherhood.