What Kind of Changes Occur in the Baby at 39 Weeks of Pregnancy?
The baby’s brain development continues at full speed. He or she is now eager to be born. The layer of fat stored in the body grows day by day. Therefore, the baby can control body temperature after birth. Brain development continues for three years following the baby’s birth.
In the 39th week of the pregnancy period, the pinkish skin color in the womb begins to turn white. New skin layers continue to develop under the surface of the skin. At this stage, the head has dropped into the pelvis.
What is the Baby’s Height and Weight at 39 Weeks of Pregnancy?
During this week of pregnancy, the baby’s weight can vary on average between 3 and 3.5 kilograms. The height is approximately 48 – 52 cm. Of course, there are babies born with higher or lower measurements than these. Body weight and height no longer change significantly, but brain development maintains its continuity at full speed.
What are the Changes in the Expectant Mother at 39 Weeks of Pregnancy?
At this week of the pregnancy period, birth can now happen at any moment. Symptoms such as contractions, the water breaking due to the rupture of the membrane containing the amniotic fluid, or the appearance of blood mean that birth is approaching. At this stage, there is about one week left until birth, and the expectant mother is now very emotional. By the 39th week, an average of 11 – 15 kilograms should have been gained.
In the 39th week of pregnancy, heartburn and indigestion are at a very high level, but they will pass with birth. Drinking plenty of water until birth provides relief. Contractions continue regularly and intensely. The baby now discomforts the mother by putting pressure on the pelvis. With the pressure applied to the pelvis, pains and cramps similar to menstrual cramps may be experienced. As birth approaches, the intestinal muscles relax, which may lead to diarrhea. In the 39th week of pregnancy, nausea may occur along with diarrhea. It is beneficial to consume plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration caused by diarrhea.
With the final weeks, back pains become more unbearable. The pain may ease slightly with warm baths.