How to calculate the approximate gestational age. How to find out the gestational age, accurate and correct

In modern obstetrics, it is customary to count the gestational age from the first day of menstruation preceding conception. And we will do the same in the Pregnancy Calendar for 7th.ru. It turns out that conception has not yet occurred at the 1st week of pregnancy, the body of the expectant mother is only preparing for it - menstruation passes and ends, the egg matures in the ovary. After about 12-14 days, she will come out of the ovary - ovulation will occur - and, with a good combination of circumstances, she will meet with the sperm. This will give rise to a new life.

Since, in fact, fertilization has not yet occurred, there are no signs of pregnancy at week 1 - so far they simply cannot be. But during this period, a woman is completely sure of her desire to be a mother, she feels a certain upsurge and a surge of strength. It's all about hormones - her body is slowly preparing for the upcoming ovulation.

Pregnancy planning is a very important stage at which both parents need to take care of their health and reconsider their attitude to addictions. After all, the chance of pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby depends on how healthy the parents are. During this period, it is highly undesirable for one or both parents to drink alcohol, take drugs or drugs that can affect the development of the fetus and the course of pregnancy. If you've wanted to quit smoking for a long time, now is the time. The chance of conception for fathers who smoke is much lower than for non-smokers. The reason for this is the detrimental effect of nicotine on the number of spermatozoa and their motility.

At 1 week of pregnancy, the expectant mother needs to eat right, walk a lot in the fresh air, exercise and take prenatal vitamins containing all the necessary substances, including folic acid, which reduces the risk of developing fetal neural tube defects during pregnancy. Also, the expectant mother should avoid x-ray exposure of the abdominal cavity, which can affect the conception and health of the unborn baby.

Gynecologists begin to keep a record of pregnancy from the beginning of the last menstruation, that is, from the moment when fertilization has not actually occurred yet. At the 2nd week of pregnancy, the woman’s body is only preparing for the meeting of the egg and sperm: at this time, the egg matures and ovulation occurs, but there is no pregnancy itself from a medical point of view. If a woman is planning a pregnancy, now she does not need a pregnancy test, but an ovulation test. Ultrasound is not done in the second week of pregnancy (unless it is necessary to accurately determine ovulation).

In the second week of pregnancy, the level of hormones increases, which will keep the fetus. During the period of ovulation, a woman feels very well: menstruation has passed and the weakness associated with it too. No specific sensations in the body of a woman yet occur, there are no signs of pregnancy in the second obstetric week.

If you are planning a pregnancy, gynecologists recommend that you do not douche before intercourse and do not use intimate hygiene cosmetics that can change the acidic environment in the vagina, just take a shower and tune in for a good result. Do not forget about vitamins for pregnant women, completely refuse to take alcohol, stop smoking and avoid stress.

According to the obstetric calendar, the third week of pregnancy corresponds to the first week of pregnancy from conception. At this time, the mature egg migrates into the uterine cavity - when passing through the fallopian tube, spermatozoa begin to attack it. Millions of sperm cells surround the egg and compete for the right to fertilize. But only one of them will penetrate the oocyte membrane and unite with it, giving rise to a new life. After the penetration of the sperm into the egg, a kind of chemical reaction is triggered, and the shell of the egg becomes impermeable to the rest of the sperm.

30 hours after the fusion of the sperm and egg, the zygote divides into cells within itself. Having reached the uterus, the zygote begins to settle in a new place. It is during this period that the placenta begins to form, which protects and nourishes the fetus throughout the pregnancy until childbirth. The embryo still does not look like a child at all, while it is only a set of cells, 0.150 mm in size, but it already has all the genetic material received from its parents - it has 23 pairs of chromosomes. By the way, the 3rd obstetric week of pregnancy is the period when the fertilized egg begins its active division, and at this moment (if the parents have a genetic predisposition) a multiple pregnancy can begin to develop.

Ultrasound at 3 weeks pregnant can show exactly where the fertilized egg has attached. At this stage, your healthcare provider can determine whether the pregnancy is normal or ectopic. An ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening future mother pathology of pregnancy, in which the attachment of a fertilized egg does not occur in the uterine cavity, but in the fallopian tube, ovary, or even in the abdominal cavity. A woman diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy is subject to immediate hospitalization for further treatment and surgery.

So it's 4 weeks pregnant. What is happening at this stage? Firstly, a fetal egg attached to the wall of the uterus can now be safely called an embryo. True, it still does not look like a little man at all, rather, it resembles a flat disk, which consists of three layers (germ layers). Each layer in the process of growth and development of the embryo is converted into internal organs. Cells of the inner layer (endodermis) - the future digestive tract, liver, pancreas and thyroid glands, organs of the respiratory system of your baby. The cells of the middle layer (mesoderm) will form the bone skeleton, connective and muscle tissue, circulatory and excretory systems, and organs of the reproductive system. From the outer layer (ectoderm), extraembryonic organs are formed - the yolk sac, the chorion and the amniotic membrane of the fetus. These organs perform the protective, nutritional and respiratory functions of the fetus during pregnancy. At this stage of pregnancy, the embryo is deep inside the uterus and grows relentlessly. By the end of the fourth week, blastogenesis is completed - the initial stage of intrauterine development of the embryo. At 4 weeks pregnant, the embryo is approximately 0.36 mm long and 1 mm wide - like a small poppy seed.

In the fourth week, not only the baby is actively growing, but also the placenta, without which the development of pregnancy and the survival of the fetus would be impossible. Thanks to the placenta, the embryo receives all the necessary nutrients from the mother's body, with her help it breathes. Placentation is a long process that will be completed by the 12th week of pregnancy.

At this time, the expectant mother may begin to recognize the first signs of pregnancy. The most classic is a delay in menstruation. If you have a delay of at least one day, you can take a pregnancy test or donate blood for hCG. During a gynecological examination, pregnancy in the early stages is quite difficult to determine, the results can be very ambiguous. Ultrasound at 4 weeks of gestation is also still uninformative, but it can help to recognize an ectopic pregnancy and make a correct diagnosis.

The 5th week of pregnancy has come. The embryo has reached the size of a small sesame seed, the laying of all its systems and internal organs continues. During this period, it is especially important for the expectant mother to monitor her diet and take vitamins for pregnant women, containing all the necessary complex of substances, including folic acid (vitamin B9), which reduces the risk of developing fetal neural tube defects. During this period, it is highly undesirable to take alcohol or narcotic substances, as well as medicines that can harm the health of the unborn baby or even terminate the pregnancy.

At week 5, the signs of pregnancy are almost invisible, but the expectant mother already feels her unusual condition. During this period, the hormonal background of a woman undergoes strong changes, causing a quick change in mood, tearfulness and excessive emotionality. Also, at a period of 5 weeks of pregnancy, the expectant mother may be disturbed by fatigue and general malaise. Many women begin to experience painful bouts of nausea and vomiting in the morning - early toxemia of pregnant women, which are joined by headaches, sensitivity to smells and tastes. Perhaps the appearance of such a symptom as frequent urination during pregnancy.

5 obstetric week of pregnancy is an anxious time for many expectant mothers, especially those who were planning a pregnancy. Miscarriage is not uncommon in early pregnancy, especially if the woman is at risk or has experienced severe stress or trauma. Risk factors for non-developing pregnancy or miscarriage usually include: endocrine or genetic disorders, age over 35 years, gynecological diseases, unhealthy lifestyle, sexual infections, two or more miscarriages in the past. If there is reason for alarm (for example, pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy, bleeding from the vagina, temperature) - immediately consult a doctor for all necessary examinations and hospitalization!

Almost half of the first trimester is behind you, because you are already 6 weeks pregnant. The fruit has reached the size of a pomegranate seed and continues to grow actively. Its internal organs are actively developing and the most important systems of the body are being improved. An ultrasound at the 6th week of pregnancy already shows very clearly where the embryo is located. Approximately at this time, the face is formed: the beginnings of the eyes, nose appear, the future chin, cheeks, ear canals are drawn. For a period of 6 weeks, you can listen to the heartbeat of the embryo, and after a while you can find out its frequency.

With the restructuring of the hormonal background of the expectant mother, important changes occur in her body. The uterus of a pregnant woman increases in size, its shape, reactivity, consistency changes, blood flow increases. The vaginal mucosa also becomes full-blooded, glycogen accumulates in it. Normal discharge at the 6th week of pregnancy is milky or transparent, homogeneous in consistency and without an unpleasant odor. If the discharge from the vagina has a yellow or green tint, you should immediately consult a doctor for the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. You should also immediately seek medical help if you notice brown or bloody discharge - this may be a sign of a threatened abortion.

Do you have a stomach ache at 6 weeks pregnant? Don't delay your visit to the doctor! Unfortunately, early miscarriage is not uncommon. If you are at risk (your previous pregnancies ended in spontaneous termination, your lifestyle cannot be called correct, you are over 35 years old, there is a predisposition to genetic disorders, endocrine or gynecological diseases, infections, etc.), it is necessary to strengthen control over the course pregnancy and timely examinations.

The 7th week of pregnancy has come. The development and growth of the embryo continues, the most basic parts of the brain have formed, the nervous and cardiovascular systems are improving, the limbs and sex glands are slowly developing. Ultrasound at the 7th week of pregnancy will determine the stage of development of the fetus and its activity, and with the help of a special sensor, the doctor can listen to the heartbeat of a little man.

Many expectant mothers complain of headaches during pregnancy, especially in the early stages. This may be due to hormonal changes occurring in a woman's body, lack of oxygen, excessive exercise, stress. Even malnutrition of a pregnant woman and substances entering the body can provoke a headache. To diagnose and solve the problem, consult a doctor, do not self-medicate. Uncontrolled medication during pregnancy can cause serious damage to health and adversely affect the development of the fetus.

To prevent headaches, expectant mothers need to rest more often, avoid noisy and stuffy places, stressful situations, loud sound and very bright light, do not overeat, do exercises for pregnant women and spend more time outdoors. In case of severe attacks, turn off all sources of sound and light ( including gadgets), drink a glass of cool non-carbonated water, apply a wet compress to the forehead and take a horizontal position. If possible, ask your husband or someone close to give you a relaxing head and neck massage.

The 8th week of pregnancy is the best time to register in the antenatal clinic. During the initial visit, all important examinations of the expectant mother are carried out: the gynecologist will measure the pelvis and weight of the woman, conduct an examination on the chair, take a smear for infections, assess the condition of the cervix and issue directions for blood and urine tests. if you did not have time to do it earlier (for example, to clarify the pregnancy). Screening of the first trimester is carried out a little later - at 11-13 weeks of pregnancy.

At a period of 8 weeks of pregnancy, the belly of the expectant mother may periodically ache: some women note slight uterine contractions (early training contractions) and unpleasant pain associated with stretching of the ligaments that hold the growing uterus. Pulling pains in the lower abdomen are a serious reason to see a doctor, as their appearance may indicate a threat of abortion!

At this stage, the expectant mother has already enlarged her breasts, and under the influence of the hormone prolactin, the glands responsible for the production of mother's milk begin to grow. From the 8th week, the cervix softens, and the mucous membrane of the cervical canal produces a cervical secret. The mucus accumulates and becomes thick, forming a plug and blocking the path of any infection from the vagina, thereby protecting the growing fetus. By the way, the passage of a cork from the cervical canal is one of the harbingers of an impending birth.

The 8th obstetric week of pregnancy is the period when the fetus forms the genital organs and produces the hormones necessary for their proper functioning. Right now, the optic nerve begins to emerge in your future baby, muscle tissue and bones continue their active development, olfactory receptors are born in the small nose, and taste buds on the tongue. The fetus at the 8th week of pregnancy has reached the size of a small grape and already weighs about 0.25 g.

The 3rd month of pregnancy has begun. At this stage, the figure of expectant mothers changes: at the 9th week of pregnancy, the stomach increases slightly, the breasts continue to grow, the pregnant woman notes special sensitivity and soreness of the nipples, some women may have a little colostrum at this time. Bloating, discomfort in the intestines , stool disorders, morning sickness in a pregnant woman, frequent urination are standard phenomena at week 9.

Allocations at the 9th week of pregnancy during this period are usually unremarkable, but the expectant mother needs to monitor their changes. Bloody or brown discharge from the vagina may indicate the need for urgent hospitalization to rule out the possibility of abortion. If you notice suspicious discharge of a yellowish, greenish hue, with an unpleasant odor, curdled, flaky or other atypical consistency, it makes sense to immediately consult a doctor. Any sexual infection in your position is a great danger to the life and health of the fetus. In no case do not self-medicate, entrust your health to specialists!

The fetus at the 9th week of pregnancy is actively growing, it has already got rid of the gills, and its tail will disappear very soon. The arched body of the baby is slowly taking on a human appearance, internal organs are developing, and life support systems are being established. To more accurately assess the condition of the fetus and its development, your doctor may prescribe an ultrasound at 9 weeks of pregnancy.

The 10th week of pregnancy has come. The belly of the expectant mother continues to grow, the chest - to pour and ache. Active hormonal changes in a woman's body provoke early toxicosis. Nausea and recurrent vomiting is accompanied by other sensations - drowsiness, fatigue, distraction, headaches. Also, the expectant mother may experience mood swings, irritability and emotional instability. Brown spots during pregnancy are another small "surprise" that awaits a woman in the early stages. However, experts say there is no reason to worry: hyperpigmentation of the skin disappears soon after the onset of childbirth. Expectant mothers are advised to stay in the sun with great care and use special sunscreens.

The 10th week of a woman's pregnancy is the time to update her wardrobe and switch to more comfortable clothes. Habitual jeans, tight skirts are not recommended, as they can put pressure on the stomach, which is highly undesirable. Comfortable and beautiful maternity clothes are what you need. If you have large breasts, you may need to wear special underwear right now that will support the bust without exerting pressure or cutting off blood circulation. Even if you have small breasts, get a nursing bra - you will appreciate its convenience.

At the 10th week of pregnancy, the fetus does not stop growing for a second. He has already reached the size of a small strawberry and more and more like a man. The organs of vision and hearing are formed, the rudiments of future teeth are born. At this time, the baby has full-fledged arms and legs, and small fingers are able to clench into a fist.

The first trimester continues. At the 11th week of pregnancy, the belly of the expectant mother continues to grow slowly, the uterus increases in size, the mammary glands become rough, the nipples become even more sensitive. In the woman's body, there is an increase in metabolism associated with the growing need for the fetus in nutrients. Some pregnant women notice the appearance of sweating during this period, as well as a constant feeling of thirst. Right now, most mothers have brittle nails, and their hair is dull and prone to falling out. The skin during pregnancy also undergoes changes: the work of the sebaceous glands intensifies, thereby causing the appearance of unwanted oily sheen, acne and pore enlargement.

In some pregnant women at week 11, the opposite picture is observed: hormones favorably affect the condition of hair, skin and nails. This difference is explained by the individual characteristics of the organism, and the nutrition of the pregnant woman during this period is of considerable importance. Correctly selected vitamins for pregnant women, as well as various cosmetic procedures that are not prohibited by your doctor, will help solve the problem.

At 11 obstetric weeks, the little man growing inside you has a sense of smell: he already smells the food you eat. The kid responds to his mother's sudden movements and covers his face with his hands, stretches and is active. At the 11th week of pregnancy, the fetus can roll over 360 degrees and push off the walls of the uterus, only the expectant mother does not yet feel his movements - this will happen later.

11 weeks pregnant is when your healthcare provider may schedule your first screening. This is necessary to assess the development of the fetus, identify pathologies (such as Down syndrome, Patau syndrome, fetal neural tube defect, etc.) and the course of your pregnancy in general. Ultrasound at 11 weeks of gestation is not a mandatory procedure, some pregnant women refuse to perform it, however, obstetrician-gynecologists, geneticists and neonatologists strongly recommend not to avoid this study.

The 12th week of pregnancy is a relatively quiet time for the expectant mother. During this period, most women stop early toxicosis, the general condition of the body improves. The belly at the 12th week of pregnancy grows with the uterus, it is not yet so noticeable to others and does not cause any inconvenience to the woman in position. The pregnant uterus rises a little higher and stops pressing on the bladder, but begins to put pressure on the intestines. For this reason, constipation occurs in pregnant women, as well as flatulence and discomfort in the abdomen. At this stage, many mothers notice an improvement in appetite and begin to eat "for two", which is highly undesirable: excess weight during pregnancy can complicate the course of childbirth, as well as the postpartum period.

At the 12th week of pregnancy - the period of prenatal screening, which includes ultrasound and a biochemical analysis of the mother's blood. The purpose of this study is to assess the course of pregnancy and fetal development. It is during this period that it is possible to recognize the presence of chromosomal pathologies and genetic diseases in the fetus (for example, a fetal neural tube defect, Down syndrome), deformation or absence of organs, limbs. For a more accurate diagnosis of ultrasound at the 12th week of pregnancy, a transvaginal method is performed.

A child at the 12th week of pregnancy has reached the size of a small passionfruit fruit and weighs approximately 9-14 g. Its internal organs develop and improve every day, nail beds appear on small fingers, and the rudiments of marigolds appear in them. At this stage, the genital organs of the fetus also appear, but it is still not possible to determine the sex of the unborn child. The expectant mother listens to the sensations all the time: the first movements of the fetus are a real event for the whole family! As soon as the baby grows up and gains weight, they will become really noticeable.

The 13th week of pregnancy is one of the most favorable periods for the expectant mother and baby. During this period, the threat of miscarriage is significantly reduced, the fetus is safer and subject to fewer risks than at the beginning of pregnancy. The expectant mother can breathe a sigh of relief, but she should not relax completely either: the end of the first trimester still requires careful attention to her health. Proper nutrition for a pregnant woman, compliance with all the prescriptions of the attending physician, walks in the fresh air and complete peace of mind are the key to a successful pregnancy at this stage.

The end of the first trimester of pregnancy makes significant changes in the body of the expectant mother. At the 13th week of pregnancy, the uterus constantly increases in size, rises higher and higher. Now it fills almost the entire hip area and rises into the abdominal area. At each examination, the gynecologist will now measure the height of the uterine fundus. Normally, the height of the fundus of the uterus corresponds to the obstetric period in weeks and is easily palpable. The approximate size of the uterus of a pregnant woman for a period of 13 weeks is 10 cm wide and 13 cm high. It becomes more elastic and softer,

The tone of the uterus in the second trimester will no longer be so terrible, as it becomes more elastic and softer, and the contractions are short. If a pregnant woman feels light pulling pains in the lower abdomen, it is necessary to exclude any physical activity and lie down. More severe pain, accompanied by weakness, fever, specific vaginal discharge, is a serious reason to consult your doctor. Be carefull!

The 14th week of pregnancy is the beginning of the second trimester, it can be called the calmest period in the process of bearing a child. Irritability and nervousness are replaced by a feeling of peace and tranquility, but increased tearfulness can accompany you throughout the entire period of pregnancy. Enjoy your position, good health and mood.

The abdomen at the 14th week of pregnancy increases in size, the expectant mother gains about 2-3 kg by this time, this occurs with an increase in the volume of blood and lymphatic fluid, and with an active growth of subcutaneous fat. Since the hormonal background has changed, you should not abuse sweet foods and pastries during this period of pregnancy - they can lead to a sharp weight gain.

At the 14th week of pregnancy, neoplasms may appear on the skin of a woman - moles and papillomas (soft warts). Do not worry, papillomas during pregnancy are a common occurrence. When the hormonal background returns to normal, they will disappear. If you have previously had papillomas, and you notice that they change in size and grow, and birthmarks increase and darken, you need to see a doctor to find out the reasons.

Also, the expectant mother may have another trouble - warts (warts) in the vagina or anus. Their appearance is associated with the papillomavirus - this is also a problem with which you should consult a doctor. Warts during pregnancy are especially dangerous, they can cause complications, as they tend to grow, thereby clogging the birth canals, subsequently preventing childbirth. However, the most unpleasant thing is that during childbirth, your baby can also become infected with this virus. So the treatment of genital warts is a mandatory measure to maintain the health of not only the expectant mother, but also the baby.

The development of pregnancy at week 15 introduces some adverse changes in the body of the expectant mother. During this period, pregnant women notice a deterioration in the condition of the skin, hair and nails, as well as crumbling of the teeth. This is due to the fact that all energy costs and nutrients from the mother's body go to the development of the fetus. The fetus in the second trimester of pregnancy continues to actively develop and grow, it requires large amounts of nutrients, vitamins and trace elements, especially calcium and proteins.

The abdomen at the 15th week of pregnancy, following the fetus, grows and becomes even more rounded. Some pregnant women may notice during this period the appearance of a dark strip on the abdomen from the navel down. Do not worry - this is a temporary phenomenon that will disappear shortly after childbirth.

The uterus at the 15th week of pregnancy becomes even larger compared to the previous 14th week. The height of the bottom of the uterus is 14 cm. The pregnant woman can already feel it on her own by placing her palm on the lower abdomen about 4-5 fingers below the navel. The uterus no longer presses on the bladder, so the frequency of urination returns to normal. But the uterus still presses on the intestines: problems with stools are not excluded. Constipation during pregnancy causes discomfort and discomfort not only to the expectant mother, but to the fetus. After all, timely cleansing of the intestines of a pregnant woman helps to remove toxins and toxins. Therefore, in order to avoid constipation, it is recommended to review your diet. Diversify your diet at the 15th week of pregnancy with healthy healthy foods: vegetables and fruits, whole grain bread, meat, cheese, cereals, dairy products, germinated cereals, cottage cheese, drink at least 2 liters of water per day.

The 16th week of pregnancy is the end of the fourth month. At the 16th week of pregnancy, the feelings of the expectant mother may intensify. It is during this period that the expectant mother can feel the first movements of the baby, because he has already reached the size of a small apple! True, sometimes they are even difficult to realize, they are so easy. Since the fetus is in the free space of the uterus, and all its movements “smooth out” the amniotic fluid, the first movements resemble “movements of a fish”, “fluttering of a butterfly” or “bursting of bubbles”. The belly at 16 weeks of gestation continues to round,

Allocations at the 16th week of pregnancy can also change their character: they become milky in color and increase in volume. This is completely normal, such discharge is normal. At this stage of pregnancy, the discharge should be homogeneous and should not cause discomfort in the form of burning and pain. During pregnancy, signs of an incipient infection may be a change in the consistency, color and pungent smell of discharge. In the presence of red, brown, yellow, green or bright yellow discharge with a pungent odor, accompanied by pain, the pregnant woman should be informed of this by the gynecologist for a comprehensive examination.

17th week of pregnancy - the beginning of the fifth month. For the expectant mother, this is the most favorable period of pregnancy, her mood and well-being should be on top. It is important for a pregnant woman to rest more, walk, eat right and do special exercises. The abdomen at 17 weeks of gestation continues to grow along with the fetus, which by this time is already the size of a pear. At the beginning of the fifth month of pregnancy, some changes occur associated with the increased activity of the baby - for him this is the 15th week of life. The expectant mother begins to perceive the presence of the child, the first emotional connection is established between them. During this period, you can start communicating with the baby - he already hears his parents.

The fetus at the 17th week of pregnancy becomes more energetic, and some sensitive pregnant women may feel the first slight movements of their offspring. By the beginning of the 5th month of pregnancy, the development of the placenta is completed. Its walls are a thick dense layer, while its weight is about 450 g. The placenta is entangled in a network of blood vessels through which the fetus receives nutrients and oxygen. Due to the increase in the conductivity of nutrients in the vessels of the placenta, the expectant mother may complain of a rapid heartbeat. In pregnant women at week 17, bleeding gums and nosebleeds may occur as a result of such heart activity. Women also note increased sweating and more abundant vaginal discharge during this period.

The 18th week of pregnancy has come, during this period, pregnant women usually no longer experience toxicosis, but they may encounter another equally unpleasant problem - dizziness. Dizziness in pregnant women is a phenomenon that occurs due to hypotension. In pregnant women in the middle of the 2nd trimester, blood pressure can drop sharply to very low levels. However, in general, this condition is not dangerous. More often it is typical for women prone to arterial hypotension outside of pregnancy.

At the 18th week of pregnancy, the stomach becomes even larger, the center of gravity is redistributed. In this regard, the gait of the expectant mother changes, aching pains in the lower back may appear. Also, pregnant women note the presence of pain in the buttocks and abdomen, most often this is due to the pressure of the growing uterus on the nerve plexuses located in these places. It is very important to choose suitable clothes that will support an already fairly round belly and will not squeeze it.

A growing belly and growing anxiety about your child can lead to sleep disturbance in a pregnant woman. Take a comfortable position for sleeping and, at least partially relieve stress, special pillows will help. These pillows will also come in handy after the birth of the baby, when mommy starts breastfeeding her baby.

So, 19 weeks pregnant. The sensations of many expectant mothers are full of excitement and joy, because the movements of the fetus become more pronounced. Some pregnant women feel how the baby began to move even earlier, but basically this happens exactly at the period from 18 to 22 weeks. Sometimes there is no fetal movement at the 19th week of pregnancy, thereby causing excitement in expectant mothers. If the course of the pregnancy itself is going well, there is no reason to worry - everything will happen soon, you just need to be patient. It should be noted that obese women begin to feel fetal movements later. And vice versa, thin women or those who have already been in an interesting position before fix the activity of their child earlier.

As soon as the expectant mother felt the first movements of the fetus during pregnancy, she should pay attention to their frequency: on average, the baby will be active 4-8 times per hour. If there is not enough oxygen or nutrients in the mother's blood, the activity of the fetus increases. Perhaps your doctor has already talked about what fetal hypoxia is and why it is dangerous. What should the expectant mother do? Take care of your baby and provide him with a greater flow of oxygen. Long walks in the fresh air, deep breaths, yoga for pregnant women or therapeutic exercises - all this will help to avoid the development of fetal hypoxia during pregnancy and improve your overall well-being. The activity of the child can also vary from the emotional state of the mother. It is important for future parents to realize that any stress causes great harm to the health and nervous system of their baby. Pregnancy should take place with the full emotional comfort of a woman.

Week 20 - the end of the fifth month of pregnancy. During this period, expectant mothers note increased pain in the lumbar and back. This is due to a shift in the center of gravity and with an additional load on the back and muscles due to the increasing weight of the pregnant woman, because the belly is actively growing, and the baby is actively gaining weight. The uterus at the 20th week of pregnancy also continues to grow, its size has increased three times compared to its normal size, and the bottom of the uterus is already at the level of the navel.

To "unload" the spine, doctors recommend performing special exercises for pregnant women. Water aerobics for pregnant women and fitball exercises give a very good effect. It is worth giving up shoes with heels, keep your posture and try not to burden your back. Clothing for pregnant women should also be as comfortable as possible, preferably made from natural fabrics and without straps, elastic bands, etc. squeezing the stomach. Following these recommendations will definitely help if you have back pain during pregnancy.

Cramps during pregnancy is another unpleasant phenomenon that worries expectant mothers. The reason for their appearance may be a deficiency of vitamins and other trace elements, since the fetus at the 20th week of pregnancy actively begins to take from the mother's body all the most useful for its development. In order to prevent mineral deficiency, it is recommended to take a vitamin-mineral complex designed specifically for pregnant women. However, it is better to choose vitamins for pregnant women together with your doctor in order to avoid trouble.

To assess the course of your interesting situation, the doctor may also prescribe an ultrasound examination. An ultrasound at the 20th week of pregnancy will tell not only about how your baby grows and develops, but also about the state of the amniotic fluid and the placenta. Some pregnant women at this time are diagnosed with placenta previa - a pathology in which the placenta is completely or partially located in the lower segment of the uterus (in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe internal uterine os, i.e. on the way to give birth to a child).

The 21st week has come, which means that half of the term for bearing a child has already been passed. Your belly at the 21st week of pregnancy is already becoming visible to others, the movement of the fetus is felt more clearly, some mothers note the special activity of babies and even see their movements. What happens to the baby at 21 weeks pregnant? He continues to grow actively, his hearing is quite well developed, a swallowing reflex has appeared, and taste buds are actively forming. At this time, the nutrition of a pregnant woman should be especially balanced and beneficial. Some expectant mothers note an increase in appetite, sometimes manifested by bouts of severe hunger. Experts recommend not to get carried away, otherwise a sharp and at the same time undesirable weight gain cannot be avoided.

The growing uterus at the 21st week of pregnancy continues to put pressure on the internal organs. At this time, pregnant women notice difficulty in breathing. Shortness of breath in pregnant women is associated with uterine pressure on the diaphragm and lungs, and in many expectant mothers it persists until the onset of childbirth. A simple but effective way to cope with a lack of oxygen is breathing exercises for pregnant women. If you have difficulty breathing at night, you can try sleeping in a semi-sitting position with a couple of large pillows under your head.

At the 21st week of pregnancy, pain in the lumbar region and back, as well as in the navel, become more and more noticeable. A pregnant woman may complain of pain and heaviness in her legs, their swelling and even cramps. Wearing the right clothes and shoes, gymnastics or yoga for pregnant women, foot baths and a light relaxing massage will help the expectant mother cope with discomfort.

At the 22nd week of pregnancy, the fetus has reached the size of a zucchini, its movements in the still quite spacious womb become more intense. The expectant mother can understand what parts of the body the child is pushing; during the day, at least ten movements of the child should be felt. If you notice that the child moves much less than usual or practically does not move, contact your doctor immediately, he will help determine why the child moves less.

At this time, expectant mothers complain about the inconvenience associated with choosing a comfortable position for relaxation, because at the 22nd week of pregnancy, the stomach is already quite large and does not allow you to sleep the way you want. Also, the growing uterus presses on the internal organs, including the lungs and the diaphragm, making it difficult for the pregnant woman to breathe. At week 22, expectant mothers note their increased emotionality and susceptibility, some experience cravings for certain products and their combinations. Experts recommend monitoring the nutrition of a pregnant woman, avoiding overeating and not eating junk food. Heartburn during pregnancy is a common occurrence, especially in the second and third trimesters. Correction of the diet, feasible physical activity and the implementation of all the prescriptions of the attending physician will help the expectant mother to cope with the disease.

Another unpleasant "surprise" that can await women who are at week 22 is hemorrhoids. During pregnancy, it often proceeds with painful sensations and causes a lot of inconvenience. The appearance of this problem is associated with circulatory disorders in the small pelvis: the uterus at the 22nd week of pregnancy increases in size and begins to compress the vessels. Because of this, the outflow of blood worsens and its stagnation is formed. Treatment of hemorrhoids during pregnancy is carried out under the strict guidance of a doctor: he will tell you what changes you need to make in your diet, what exercises for pregnant women to perform and prescribe an effective therapy that is right for you. Candles for hemorrhoids during pregnancy or ointment will help you in the fight against such a delicate problem.

So, you are 23 weeks pregnant. The development of the fetus at this time continues, in size it already resembles a small eggplant and weighs about half a kilogram. Due to a small amount of brown subcutaneous fat and very thin skin, his face and body are still thin and wrinkled. A child at the 23rd week of pregnancy behaves very actively, the expectant mother clearly feels his movements and can determine exactly where he is. If the child pushes unusually strongly, too often, or, on the contrary, his movements began to be felt less often or completely disappeared, contact your doctor immediately. It will help to identify and eliminate the causes of impaired motor activity of the fetus.

The 23rd week of pregnancy imposes certain prohibitions on the workload of the expectant mother. During this period, you can not lift weights and overstrain, it is advisable to use a bandage for pregnant women. Despite the constantly growing belly, at the 23rd week of pregnancy, it is recommended not to reduce physical activity and to be in the fresh air more often in order to provide the baby with good oxygen nutrition. Fetal hypoxia is a serious problem, to prevent it, you must follow all the recommendations of your doctor and try to avoid stressful situations.

At this time, constipation in a pregnant woman can become frequent "guests". Try to eat foods rich in fiber, keep drinking regimen and do not forget about physical activity. Remember that timely bowel cleansing is the key to the well-being of the expectant mother. Another nuisance that continues to accompany most pregnant women is heartburn and discomfort in the epigastric region. The growing uterus at the 23rd week of pregnancy puts pressure on the organs, and the hydrochloric acid contained in the stomach enters the esophagus and causes a burning sensation.

It is very important for a young mother to take care of her own health and strengthen her immunity, since during this period it is highly undesirable to get sick with viral and infectious diseases, especially the flu. A child in the womb of a mother with influenza is susceptible to such a dangerous phenomenon as fetal growth retardation and various pathologies of the nervous system.

The 24th week of pregnancy is a relatively calm time for the expectant mother, because she already clearly feels how the baby is moving, can determine the periods of his sleep and wakefulness, and notices how quickly her belly is growing. At the 24th week of pregnancy, the baby sleeps about 18-20 hours a day. Sometimes the baby pushes at night, or when you lie down to rest during the day. This may indicate that he is hungry. Allow yourself a light, healthy snack to help calm your baby's movements. Experts recommend expectant mothers to observe the daily routine and diet, thus teaching babies to stay awake and sleep at the same time.

The uterus at the 24th week of pregnancy continues to grow, its bottom is located in the navel area. At this stage of pregnancy, many women begin to feel false contractions, they are also called training. The body of a pregnant woman with the help of such exercises masters the process of uterine contraction and prepares for childbirth. They are practically painless and have an irregular nature, but if you experience abdominal pain during pregnancy, contact your doctor immediately. Watery discharge at 24 weeks of gestation may also indicate the onset of preterm labor. Be vigilant and careful!

25th week of pregnancy - during this period, many expectant mothers are worried about premature birth. But do not wind yourself up and fill your head with this if there are no alarming symptoms. However, if you experience abdominal pain during pregnancy, pulling your lower back, and watery vaginal discharge at 25 weeks, contact your doctor immediately.

If you haven't started preparing your nipples for feeding yet, it's time to start. To do this, make it a rule to wash the nipples and areola with cold water and wipe them with a coarse waffle towel. This simple manipulation will allow you to protect yourself from such troubles as cracked nipples in the future. Carry out the procedure once a day for a couple of minutes, no more, so as not to cause unwanted uterine contractions during this period.

Heaviness in the legs during pregnancy and the manifestation of varicose veins is another unpleasant phenomenon that accompanies the expectant mother during this period. To prevent the development of the disease, it is recommended to wear special compression stockings that a phlebologist will help you choose. Try not to strain your legs and wear comfortable maternity shoes. While resting, put your feet on a pillow or a special roller to improve blood circulation and relieve tension.

A growing belly at 25 weeks of gestation also needs special care. Stretch marks on the abdomen are an unpleasant consequence of pregnancy, but you can prevent their appearance with the help of special creams and lotions recommended by your doctor.

The third trimester of pregnancy has come. Your baby is already the size of a small melon and already weighs about 800 g. The expectant mother feels even more noticeably how the baby moves in her stomach, especially at night. At this time, doctors recommend carefully monitoring the activity of the fetus and counting movements. There is a special table - a fetal movement test, in which the expectant mother notes every tenth movement of the child from 9:00 to 21:00. Under normal conditions, the tenth movement is noted until 17:00. If the number of movements within 12 hours is less than 10, tell your doctor. The lack of fetal activity for 12 hours is a very serious signal, consult a doctor immediately! Fetal hypoxia is very dangerous at all stages of pregnancy, it is important not only to diagnose its development in time, but also to provide timely assistance to the baby in order to avoid disastrous consequences.

A child at the 26th week of pregnancy is already quite well developed: he sees and hears, and he distinguishes low sounds better than high ones. The kid is sensitive to sharp pops or knocks, they cause him anxiety, and screaming and noise frighten him. The most pleasant sound for the baby, even after birth, is the beat of the mother's heart. He has already developed taste buds, grasping and sucking reflexes are actively developing. He looks less and less like a wrinkled old man, the skin slowly smoothes and changes color.

The start of the third trimester is a time to be vigilant. If you notice watery discharge from the vagina, do not hesitate to visit the doctor: it is possible that amniotic fluid is leaking and there is a risk of giving birth prematurely. Alarm signals at this time are also prolonged cramping pains, pulling pains in the lower abdomen and lower back, general weakness. Bloody discharge at the 26th week of pregnancy may indicate placental abruption, but only a doctor can determine this more accurately.

The development of the child at the 27th week of pregnancy continues to gain momentum: important changes are taking place in his body. For example, the immune and respiratory systems develop, pulmonary surfactant is produced - a mixture of substances that in the future will help the baby's lungs absorb and absorb oxygen. Every day, the movements of the fetus are felt by the expectant mother more and more sharply, she can already recognize even the hiccups in the baby by slight rhythmic shudders inside. This process does not cause any inconvenience to the child and can last several minutes.

At the 27th week of pregnancy, some expectant mothers may experience involuntary urination that occurs during sneezing or strong laughter. This is due to the fact that the uterus at the 27th week of pregnancy puts quite a lot of pressure on the bladder. In order not to be in an awkward situation, use special sanitary pads. Heartburn during pregnancy, nausea and frequent constipation are also the result of uterine pressure on internal organs. Try to eat in small portions, but often, do not abuse sweet and starchy foods. Compliance with the drinking regime, feasible physical activity, exercises for pregnant women - all this will also help you cope with ailments.

The third trimester is a time of special control. The expectant mother should pay attention to the number of fetal movements, the nature of the discharge (for example, bloody discharge may indicate placental abruption, and watery discharge may indicate the onset of preterm labor) and specific pains. Timely diagnosis by the attending physician will help to avoid trouble and endure the baby before the due date.

The 28th week of pregnancy has come. The child at this stage of development is already quite large and slightly less mobile. It becomes crowded in his mother's tummy, the baby practically does not change the position of the body, but continues to push his mother with his legs and arms. The expectant mother needs to continue to monitor the movements of the fetus and mark them in a special table. At 28 weeks of gestation, the baby opens its eyes for the first time and can distinguish between light and shadows. The child's brain is actively developing and has several clear convolutions. During this period, the foundations of the psyche and character traits of the child are laid.

Pregnant women at week 28 note the sensitivity of the skin, for many, the chest, hips, and abdomen begin to itch. At the 28th week of pregnancy, the issue of fighting stretch marks is especially relevant. Do not neglect the advice of a doctor, use a special lotion or cream for stretch marks. In pharmacies and specialized stores, you can also find oil for stretch marks during pregnancy, made from natural ingredients and contributing to the rapid hydration of the skin and its effective regeneration.

The breast at the 28th week of pregnancy also continues to undergo changes: at this time, veins may appear on the chest, colostrum begins to stand out from the nipples. During this period, the expectant mother needs to carefully monitor her well-being, eat right and rest. Be careful: at this time there is a high risk of premature birth, so try to protect yourself from stress, in no case carry weights, do not hang linen and curtains.

So, the 29th week of pregnancy has come. Only 1 week left before the cherished maternity leave. You will be able to pay more attention to yourself and the baby, attend the school for expectant mothers, and focus on the final period of pregnancy. If you are still working, try not to overwork yourself. Even doing household chores, ask relatives for help. Premature birth at this time is a phenomenon, although not universal, but there is still a risk. Take care of yourself!

The expectant mother during this period should monitor her weight. Weight gain at 29 weeks pregnant should be about 10-12 kg. The rate of weight gain is approximately 300-350 g per week. If a pregnant woman recovers more rapidly, it is necessary to make sure that this is not due to fluid retention in the body. Edema during pregnancy at this time is found in most expectant mothers, a salt-free diet, correction of the drinking regimen and special exercises for pregnant women will help solve the problem. But do not lose vigilance: any manifestation of pronounced swelling of the face, fingers, lower back and abdominal wall may indicate the presence of a serious complication called "preeclampsia". For its diagnosis and treatment, you must contact your doctor.

At the 29th week of pregnancy, discharge is also an object of control. Normally, homogeneous, transparent (or milky) discharge without a strong odor. If spotting is detected, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor, as this may be a sign of premature birth, presentation or abruption of the placenta.

The feeling of heat is another unpleasant phenomenon that expectant mothers often complain about at the 29th week of pregnancy. This is due to the acceleration of metabolism, which causes the activation of sweating processes and increases the load on the heart. In some pregnant women, pressure decreases, a rapid pulse appears.

The 30th week of pregnancy has come, your baby is already the size of a head of cabbage and weighs about 1.2-1.3 kg. At this stage, the child begins to gain weight more rapidly, becoming less and less mobile. The expectant mother notices how the nature of the movements is changing: now the child is pushing and kicking quite painfully, resting his limbs on the internal organs or ribs.

Sometimes pregnant women complain about the pain that fetal movements bring to them. This may occur due to an uncomfortable state - do not be nervous, avoid places where you may feel bad, both mentally and physically. If suddenly you feel that the uterus is tense, relax, turn on pleasant music and rest. Stomach strokes and gentle words will soothe the baby. The fetus at 30 weeks of gestation is very sensitive to maternal caress.

At the 30th week of pregnancy, the belly of the expectant mother grew significantly and changed her gait. Some clumsiness is associated not only with the addition of centimeters at the waist, but also with the relaxation of the articular ligaments and water retention in the body. Weight at 30 weeks of pregnancy increased by about 10 kg, and more than half of this weight is the uterus, amniotic fluid, placenta. In order not to gain extra pounds, continue to monitor your diet and do gymnastics for pregnant women. Do not forget that all movements must be done carefully, avoiding sharp turns of the body and tilts.

The 30th week of pregnancy is the deadline for maternity leave for working expectant mothers. Finally, you can devote more time to your health and preparation for childbirth. If you haven't enrolled in a mom-to-be school yet, do so now. If the attending physician has established a breech presentation of the fetus - practice special exercises, there is a chance that the baby will still turn head down. Only a doctor (with the help of careful palpation) and an unscheduled ultrasound at the 30th week of pregnancy can determine the presentation most accurately.

The uterus at 31 weeks of gestation continues to increase in size and rise higher, putting more and more pressure on the internal organs. This leads to such unpleasant phenomena as heartburn, constipation or hemorrhoids. During pregnancy for a period of 31 weeks, it is necessary to constantly monitor the condition of the expectant mother, especially if there is uterine fibroids during pregnancy or scars after cesarean section.

The nutrition of a pregnant woman during this period should be as useful and easily digestible as possible. To prevent nausea, heartburn and constipation, you need to eat small meals, but often. The basis of your diet should be vegetables, meat, fish, cereals and dairy products. Refrain from fried, salty and spicy foods - they increase the burden on the kidneys.

Edema during pregnancy in the third trimester worries almost all women, a special salt-free diet, doing feasible exercises, correcting nutrition and drinking regimen will help fight them. If you begin to notice severe swelling of the face, fingers, abdomen or lower back, consult a doctor immediately, these may be signs of a serious complication - preeclampsia of pregnant women.

A baby at 31 weeks pregnant is in its final position in the womb, usually head down. If the doctor has diagnosed a breech presentation of the fetus, you still have the opportunity to try to change the situation - with the help of special exercises and positions. The development of the child at 31 weeks of gestation continues, outwardly, he is already becoming more and more like a newborn baby. The skin of the baby turns pink due to subcutaneous fat, which hides his blood vessels, the capillaries through it no longer shine through. The baby is actively gaining weight, his internal organs and reflexes are developing and improving. Fetal movements at 31 weeks of pregnancy are felt by the mother very well, experts recommend continuing to monitor the baby's activity and filling out a special table of fetal movements.

Started 32 weeks pregnant. The estimated due date is getting closer, the expectant mother is increasingly worried about the health of her unborn child. At the 32nd week of pregnancy, the stomach begins to cause a lot of inconvenience. Pain in the lower back and legs, the inability to take a comfortable position for sleeping, some clumsiness - it is not at all surprising that at this time most women feel tired, they want to end the pregnancy and meet the baby as soon as possible.

At the 32nd week of pregnancy, the uterus continues to put pressure on the internal organs, causing shortness of breath, heartburn and frequent constipation. A pregnant woman has training contractions - almost painless contractions of the uterus, preparing her for the upcoming birth. Some women report that at 32 weeks pregnant they sweat more than usual and feel hot in the body. This is due to the acceleration of metabolic processes in the body of a pregnant woman, which affect the work of the heart and the process of sweating.

The fetus at 32 weeks of gestation continues to grow and gain weight. It is already the size of a large head of Beijing cabbage and weighs about 1.6-1.7 kg. The baby hears how the mother's organs work, listens to her voice and is able to distinguish its sound from any other. Outwardly, the baby is also changing - hair, nails grow, wrinkles are smoothed out, cheeks appear, the original lubricant is gradually washed off. Almost all the organs of the child are already formed, the head and torso are proportional, it remains to add weight. Another important achievement of this period is the laying of the baby's own immunity. Ultrasound will help to fully assess the development of the child at this stage. At the 32nd week of pregnancy, the doctor will determine the presentation of the fetus, as well as assess the condition of the placenta, umbilical cord and the amount of amniotic fluid.

Throughout pregnancy, the expectant mother should beware of viral and infectious diseases, since any disease and methods of its treatment will certainly affect the health of the baby. Colds in late pregnancy are dangerous because they accelerate the aging process of the placenta, and this, in turn, threatens the development of fetal hypoxia and impaired delivery of nutrients from mother to child.

The 33rd week of pregnancy has come. The child has reached the size of a pineapple and already weighs about 2 kg. Every day he is getting tighter in his mother's stomach: no somersaults, no coups. The amount of amniotic fluid also decreases, the movements of the fetus are felt by the mother more and more acutely. At this time, the development of the child continues to gain momentum: the immune, nervous and endocrine systems complete their formation, muscle mass and subcutaneous fat continue to grow. If suddenly a future mother begins a premature birth at 33 weeks of gestation, the probability of having a live and healthy baby is very high.

At the 33rd week of pregnancy, the belly of the expectant mother continues to grow, causing more and more discomfort while sleeping, walking or doing business. The uterus at 33 weeks pregnant rises even higher and puts even more pressure on the stomach and other organs. The pregnant woman still experiences heartburn, sometimes there is a burp. Breathing becomes difficult and shortness of breath appears after exercise. After a couple of weeks, the pregnant woman's belly will begin to sink down and the woman will feel a little better.

Edema during pregnancy at this time is a ubiquitous phenomenon. Expectant mothers complain of swelling of the legs (especially in the ankle area), which increases after exercise or walking. Edema of the legs in pregnant women is associated with a violation of the speed of blood flow: after all, the growing uterus puts pressure not only on the internal organs, but also on the blood vessels. And the blood, being under pressure, retains water in the legs.

To prevent swelling during rest, you need to put your feet above your head, for example, on a pillow or a rolled up blanket, wear comfortable shoes for pregnant women and perform special exercises. A pregnant woman is not recommended to stand, sit, stay in stuffy rooms for a long time. The nutrition of a pregnant woman should be balanced and healthy. To prevent swelling, it is necessary to limit or completely eliminate the use of salt, salty foods and spicy foods. Salt tends to retain fluid in the body, and generously spiced dishes can cause not only an attack of heartburn, but also intense thirst.

Started 34 weeks pregnant. What happens during this period? The body of the expectant mother begins to intensively prepare for the upcoming birth. For example, a large amount of hormones are released into the bloodstream, which increase the elasticity of certain joints and ligaments - all this is necessary for easier progression of the child through the birth canal. The enlarging uterus at the 34th week of pregnancy puts a lot of pressure on the bladder, for this reason, the expectant mother has more frequent urination, sometimes urinary incontinence may occur.

Pregnant women continue to experience heartburn, some mothers complain of difficulty breathing, problems with stools and hemorrhoids. Edema during pregnancy (especially severe) is a reason to see a doctor and pass all the necessary tests. Preeclampsia of pregnant women is a serious pathology in which toxins are released into the body of the expectant mother, which can lead to impaired fetal development at 34 weeks of gestation and even death. The presence of protein in the urine and a change in blood pressure indicate the development of preeclampsia in a pregnant woman.

The baby at 34 weeks of gestation continues to grow actively. It has already reached the size of a nutmeg gourd and weighs approximately 1.9-2 kg. In the third trimester, the child's cardiovascular system is actively formed. The frequency of his heartbeat is almost 2 times higher than that of an adult. Putting your ear to the belly of the expectant mother, you can hear the fetal heartbeat. From the 34th week of pregnancy, the baby gains the necessary weight, the primary hair growth decreases and, along with it, the original lubricant. The baby's skin becomes paler and smoother, the work of the kidneys and all vital systems is getting better. If a mother-to-be goes into premature labor at 34 weeks pregnant, there is a huge chance that the baby will survive and be born healthy (albeit small).

So, you are gradually approaching the estimated date of birth, the 35th week of pregnancy has come. It becomes more and more difficult to do the usual things and maintain the former activity. At the 35th week of pregnancy, the breasts of the expectant mother are already preparing to feed the baby with might and main: it has increased in size, filled up and aches. Nursing bra is what you need. It will not squeeze and irritate, and will support your enlarged breasts well.

The belly has already become quite large and causes a lot of inconvenience. The uterus at the 35th week of pregnancy became huge, crushed the stomach and lungs. At the end of the 35th week, the pregnant woman's belly will begin to sink and it will become easier to breathe. If it has become very difficult for the expectant mother to breathe, it is necessary to perform a special exercise for pregnant women, which will help reduce pressure on the internal organs: get on all fours and inhale and exhale smoothly. In this position, you can stand from 5 minutes to half an hour, several times a day.

The baby at 35 weeks of gestation continues to grow and has already reached the size of a nutmeg. Its weight increases every week by 200-250 g. The movements of the fetus become more constrained, because there is practically no free space in the mother's stomach. Now he is not so much pushing as rolling, sticking out different parts of his body. At this stage, the intrauterine development of the fetus is already quite high, the work of its internal organs and reflexes has been established. If a mother-to-be goes into premature labor at 35 weeks of gestation, the chances of having a healthy baby are very high. However, experts agree that in order to guarantee the survival of the child and its further development, pregnancy must be maintained until the expected date of birth.

36 weeks of pregnancy is the final stage of the entire period of bearing a child, according to gynecologists. The expectant mother at this stage of pregnancy will probably have to visit her doctor until the onset of childbirth. He will carefully monitor her blood pressure and protein content in her urine to rule out the risk of developing such a serious pathology as preeclampsia. It may be necessary to perform an ultrasound at 36 weeks of gestation to detect fetal presentation, check the condition of the placenta, amniotic membranes, exclude the risk of cord entanglement and assess the amount of amniotic fluid.

It is time for the expectant mother to start solving organizational issues: choose the place of delivery, choose a doctor and pack a bag for the hospital. Starting from the 36th week of pregnancy, childbirth can occur at any time, and the expectant mother must be ready for this. Since the obstetrician cannot determine the onset of pregnancy with an accuracy of up to a week, an error of 2 weeks is not uncommon, and at a period of 37-38 weeks of pregnancy, childbirth is no longer considered premature.

At the 36th week of pregnancy, the belly of the expectant mother gives a lot of inconvenience due to its large size. Due to the load, the woman feels pain in the lower back and legs, suffers from swelling and moves more difficult. The uterus at the 36th week of pregnancy continues to put pressure on the internal organs, causing shortness of breath and heartburn. In some women, a prolapse of the abdomen occurs at this time: the baby is slowly moving closer to the “exit”, occupying the pelvic floor with the presenting part (head or buttocks). By the way, a baby at 36 weeks of gestation is already the size of a large papaya, its weight is approximately 2.5 kg.

Almost all women experience fear of childbirth, especially if they are for the first time. At 36 weeks, expectant mothers become increasingly irritable, anxious and nervous. Good helpers in the fight against fear will be meditation, relaxation, yoga for pregnant women, relaxing massage, listening to music, reading books, communicating with loved ones or a personal psychologist.

At 37 weeks of gestation, the baby is already ready for birth, but his body continues to change and prepare for childbirth. The body of the baby gradually becomes plump due to the accumulating subcutaneous fat, the skin is smoothed, becomes elastic and acquires a pink tint. The fetus at the 37th week of pregnancy is fully developed: all the systems of its body are ready to start working, the hormone cortisol is produced, which contributes to the maturation of the lungs. Meconium has accumulated in the baby's intestines - the original feces, which will come out on the first day, from 3 to 20 hours after birth. By the way, the removal of meconium from the intestines of the newborn will be facilitated by colostrum secreted from the mother's breast in the first time after childbirth.

By the 37th week of pregnancy, the uterus has reached its maximum size: it weighs about a kilogram, its volume is 4-5 liters. The pressure on the bladder increases, the pregnant woman has back pain, and shooting pain in the legs and perineum is also possible. The stomach at the 37th week of pregnancy hardens several times a day - training contractions occur. At this time, aging of the placenta is noted, harbingers of close births may appear: exit of the mucous plug (yellowish discharge with streaks), lowering of the abdomen (the child occupies the position of the presenting area in the small pelvis), slight liquefaction of the stool.

At a period of 37 weeks, the baby's movement often brings pain to the expectant mother, now it is very crowded in his stomach: the amniotic fluid has become even smaller, the size and weight of the baby are increasing. It turns out that the uterus at the 37th week of pregnancy now puts pressure not only on the internal organs of the mother, but also pinches the baby. Fetal movements must be controlled at the 37th week of pregnancy: there should be at least 10 per day. In the last days of pregnancy, the activity of the child decreases, he calms down a bit and prepares for his birth.

The 38th week of pregnancy has come - an alarming waiting period for the expectant mother. At this time, the pregnant woman should be prepared for the fact that she can be taken to the hospital at any time. If you haven't packed your bag for the hospital yet, now is the time to take care of it. Also collect all the necessary documents: you need to take your passport, medical policy, exchange card and birth certificate to the maternity hospital. Put all the documents in one folder or file and carry it with you in your purse, especially when traveling.

The belly at 38 weeks of gestation can be truly huge: the baby has taken all the free space and continues to gain weight. It is getting harder and harder for him to move, as the uterus at the 38th week of pregnancy squeezes the body from all sides. At this stage, important improvements take place in the body of a little man, the fluff disappears partially or completely - lanugo and original lubricant covering the baby's skin, facial features become more and more refined. At 38 weeks of gestation, the baby takes its place in the mother's pelvis and is preparing to be born with might and main.

During this period, expectant mothers may feel the harbingers of childbirth: training contractions, pain in the hip area and sacrum, pulling pains in the lower abdomen, reminiscent of menstruation. Mucous discharge from the vagina at 38 weeks of gestation may also indicate an impending birth.

Expectant mothers often worry: how to identify contractions and distinguish them from false ones? Experts recommend staying calm, because you definitely won’t miss childbirth. Real contractions are more tangible and painful than training ones, they are repeated periodically, increasing their frequency and intensity incrementally. To distinguish false contractions from real ones, change your position: stand up, walk around the room, lie down. If the contractions have stopped - do not worry, most likely they are false.

The 39th week of pregnancy has come, the baby is already fully formed and ready to be born at any moment. The baby has reached the size of a small watermelon and weighs about 3.2 kg. His lungs are developed enough to finally take his first breath. The movements of the child are becoming less and less active due to the cramped mother's womb, the expectant mother should not stop watching the activity of her child and, in case of a "calm", immediately consult a doctor.

At week 39, pregnant women begin active "nesting" - a condition in which a woman strives with all her might to clean up the mess and create as much comfort as possible in the house. At this time, women can feel a surge of strength, an unusual lightness (despite a huge belly at 39 weeks of pregnancy) and a desire to “turn mountains”. But do not be too zealous: such intense physical activity may well provoke childbirth at 39 weeks. Entrust the cleaning and home improvement to the future dad or caring relatives.

For a successful delivery and well-being of the expectant mother and child, doctors recommend not to neglect long walks. Ideally, in late pregnancy, you need to walk at least 3 hours a day, if there are no problems and bed rest is not indicated for you. Fetal hypoxia is a dangerous phenomenon throughout pregnancy, the end of the third trimester is no exception. For its prevention, it is important not only to breathe fresh air, but also to continue to eat right, perform feasible exercises for pregnant women, avoid stress and any conditions that negatively affect you and your pregnancy.

At 39 weeks pregnant, many women lose up to 2 kg in weight. There is nothing to worry about - the body removes excess fluid. At the 39th week of pregnancy, the total increase in women averages from 10 to 15 kg, but it can be either more or less. It depends on the characteristics of the organism of the expectant mother and is one of the harbingers of an early birth.

The 40th week of pregnancy is the final stage of bearing a child, and the body of the expectant mother is almost ready for the upcoming birth. Now you should have everything ready for the birth of your baby - from the bag to the hospital and documents, to the complete order in the apartment and the availability of everything necessary to care for your baby. Fear of childbirth, increasing tension, anxiety - all this negatively affects your baby. Try to set yourself up positively, because very soon you will be able to see and pick up your long-awaited son or daughter!

At this time, the expectant mother should continue to count the movements of the fetus: there should be at least ten of them during the day. If suddenly a child at 40 weeks of gestation suddenly calms down or is too active, consult a doctor: he may be experiencing oxygen starvation or other problems that require the immediate intervention of specialists.

One of the most important signs of imminent labor is the discharge of the mucous plug. A plug is a clot of mucus that closes the cervical canal during pregnancy and protects the fetus from infections that can enter the uterus from the vagina. The hormone progesterone, which is responsible for carrying a fetus, ceases to be produced at 40 weeks of gestation. The cervix becomes softer, the canal begins to open, and after that the mucus plug comes out. Other equally indicative harbingers of childbirth are lowering of the abdomen, the occurrence of training contractions, pain in the lower back, sacrum or womb, and the outflow of amniotic fluid. Be alert!

If you're 40 weeks pregnant and labor isn't starting, don't worry, your "X" hour is coming soon!

The expected due date is past, and your pregnancy is still ongoing and, by the way, is not considered post-term. At this time, the expectant mother feels clumsy and clumsy, gets very tired and increasingly suffers from sleep disorders. The reason is a very large belly at 41 weeks of gestation, which makes it difficult to take at least some comfortable position. Most women complain of severe irritability and nervousness that seem to arise out of nowhere. This is directly related to their hormonal background and the excitement that expectant mothers experience while waiting for childbirth. If you are afraid of childbirth, discuss this with your doctor, as well as with your family or personal psychologist: now more than ever you need special support and understanding.

At 41 weeks pregnant, the discharge in a pregnant woman may become more intense and look like mucus (clear in color or colored pinkish, yellowish or creamy). Such discharge indicates the discharge of the mucous plug from the cervix and the possible approach of the onset of labor.

Just before childbirth, a pregnant woman may lose amniotic fluid, which looks like a clear, odorless, thin liquid. The discharge of water in pregnant women can occur in different ways: it can be a leak, a trickle, or a one-time outpouring. Many future mothers may not notice this process at all. This happens in cases where a small crack or a small gap occurs on the fetal bladder - then the water simply leaks. If the expectant mother uses sanitary pads, she may confuse them with vaginal discharge.

Sometimes pregnant women try to induce labor themselves by taking castor oil or other dubious or even dangerous methods to speed up labor. Experts urge women "not to engage in amateur activities" and seek timely help.

Many women who carry a baby up to 42 weeks often become nervous because labor does not begin. Don't worry, you have a few days left to give birth. Perhaps you are already observing some of the harbingers of childbirth and are mentally preparing for a trip to the hospital.

At 42 weeks of gestation, there is a risk of placental aging and the development of various pathologies. Fetal hypoxia, deficiency of nutrients, the likelihood of infection or cord entanglement - all this can be prevented if you contact your doctor in time and undergo an examination. The doctor will listen to the fetal heartbeat, check the condition of the cervix, placenta, membranes, umbilical cord, and measure the abdomen. At the 42nd week of pregnancy, the expectant mother may be prescribed additional examinations and, if necessary, will be admitted to a hospital for observation.

If you want to give birth on your own, 42 weeks is the last week for such an opportunity. When there are no contractions, doctors decide to induce labor. Be prepared for the fact that a large child is more difficult to go through the birth canal and, as a rule, the postpartum recovery period will be longer. Also, if the fetus has an ossification of the skull, during natural childbirth, a woman may have tears. To avoid serious damage to the genitals and perineum of a woman, as well as traumatic brain injuries in a baby, doctors may resort to surgical dissection - an episiotomy.