Gestational Weeks 29-32

The Eight Month

Baby's Growth

The eight month is a time of rapid growth for your baby, especially brain growth, so be sure you are eating well. He will gain at least two pounds before the end of this month. His tight fit in the uterus may cause him to slow down his movements a bit.

His lungs are still developing, but the rest of his body is pretty well formed. Even his eyes are functioning, able to focus and he even blinks. You may even be able to recognize his periods of sleep and wake.

The umbilical cord is coated in a gelatinous substance, so even though he likes to twist and turn, the cord is protected from kinks and knots.

At the end of the 32nd week your baby will be around 12 inches from crown to rump and weigh about 5 pounds.

Mom's Changes

You should be feeling Braxton Hicks contractions pretty regularly now. They are not a cause of concern, simply your uterus muscle exercising itself to get stronger.

Your baby may have dropped down into the pelvis, called lightening or engagement, in preparation for birth. This causes your pelvis to expand which may cause some pelvic pressure. The ever increasing size of your baby may also be pushing him up into your rib cage, which may be feeling sore.

Your estrogen levels are increasing, making your uterus more sensitive to oxytocin (the hormone your body uses to cause contractions). This also changes the ratio of estrogen to progesterone which stimulates the release of prostaglandins (which your body uses to soften the cervix).

You may begin thinking about the upcoming labor. If you haven't already signed up for a childbirth class or contacted a doula, you need to now.

Common Symptoms

The following symptoms are commonly experienced during this month. Please click on a symptom to learn why it happens and what you can do about it.

You May Also Be Interested In: Finding out how to tell if labor has started. The Coach's Notebook helps you master comfort measures for labor. The Natural Childbirth Directory can help you find more information about pregnancy and locate childbirth professionals. Virtual Labor Game lets you practice your new labor skills.

© Copyright 2000-2007 Jennifer VanderLaan and Birthing Naturally

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