Pregnancy calendar - week #40
Pregnancy calendar - week #40
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Pregnant mothers - week #40
Drum roll please...
You made it, you made it, you made it!
Forty weeks. Nine months. Wow! It's finally here and you're ready. You've done everything possible to prepare yourself for this moment. You should be excited and confident going into labor. You're going to meet your baby very soon.
There's a chance that baby isn't here yet. If you're still not showing any signs of labor (much to your dismay, we're sure!), you may want to check out a few safe ways to induce it. It's not cheating--just pushing the clock a little bit! Yeahbaby.com has compiled some information on labor induction that you may find very helpful.
There are also ways of inducing labor medically. These include the use of pitocin (a synthetic hormone to speed up signs of labor) and amniotomy (artificial breaking of your water.) Talk to your doctor to find out if either of these options are right for you.
Keep in mind the typical labor lasts 13 hours for new mothers. If you've previously given birth, it will only last about 8 hours.
Baby and fetal development - week #40
Welcome to the world!
Baby is either already here or well on her way!
Typically, a baby born at 40 weeks weighs 7 and 1/2 pounds, and is generally 20 inches long. Baby boys are typically a little bigger than baby girls.
Right after baby is delivered, your health care provider will suction fluid out of her mouth and nose. Right after that, you'll hear baby produce her first cry (something you'll get used to very fast!)
The baby is typically placed on your stomach after delivery. This creates an instant bond between mother and child. You may want to try breastfeeding soon after delivery. Baby is ready--are you?
There are a number of tests the doctor will administer on your newborn. This Yeahbaby.com article on a baby's first health tests will give you an idea of what to expect.
We're sure you have many more concerns about these first special days after childbirth. Check out these links for a wealth of information:
Pregnant dads - week #40
Boo-ya!
You made it! By now you're either a new father (or father again) or ready to be. Take time to relax and enjoy the moment. Sure, everyone wants to rush through labor and delivery, but this special event is also a time worth savoring.
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