Baby Growth

• Size is approximately 20.16 inches and 7.63 pounds.
• Your baby is the size of a watermelon.
• Your baby is now “full term”!
• Your baby’s brain is still developing.
• Your baby’s head may look a little pointy after delivery, due to the passage through the birth canal, but this is normal.

You & Your Body

• You may be experiencing these symptoms: Braxton Hicks contractions, pelvic pressure or sharp pains, leg cramps, trouble sleeping, fatigue, anxiety, and a “nesting” urge.
• Watch for these symptoms of labor: thick mucus, possibly with a tinge of blood (mucus plug released); nausea, diarrhea, water breaking, more frequent and more intense contractions, or back pain.
• Be prepared for these after birth symptoms: weight loss, a discharge (formed from uterine lining), and a range of emotions (sometimes called “baby blues”).

Tips

• If you’re thinking about how to naturally induce labor at this point, you might consider walking, sexual activity, or acupuncture.
• Keep up with your doctor’s visits and keep yourself busy as you’re waiting for your baby. Many babies extend past the due date.
• Make sure your car is full of gas if you’re making that hospital trip.
• After delivery, keep these tips in mind: sleep when the baby sleeps and get plenty of rest, limit visitors, drink plenty of fluids, accept help and invite help, stay connected and share your experiences with others.

Updated May 1, 2019