Women's calendar for pregnant women. Accurate pregnancy calculator by week

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

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

Planning a pregnancy is a very important stage at which both parents need to take care of their health and reconsider their attitude to addictions. Indeed, 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. Fathers who smoke are much less likely to conceive than non-smokers. This is due to the detrimental effect of nicotine on the number of sperm and their motility.

At a gestation period of 1 week, the expectant mother needs to eat right, walk a lot in the fresh air, do physical exercises and take vitamins for pregnant women containing all the necessary substances, including folic acid, which reduces the risk of developing fetal neural tube defects during pregnancy. Also, the expectant mother needs to avoid X-rays 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 took place, that is, from the moment when fertilization has not actually occurred. At the 2nd week of pregnancy, the woman's body is only preparing for the meeting of the egg and the 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 a test to determine ovulation. Ultrasound is not done in the second week of pregnancy (unless there is a need to accurately determine ovulation).

In the second week of pregnancy, the level of hormones that will preserve the fetus increase. During the period of ovulation, the woman feels very well: the menstruation has passed and the weakness associated with it, too. There are no specific sensations in the woman's body yet, 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 cosmetics for intimate hygiene, which can change the acidic environment in the vagina, just take a shower and tune in to 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 it passes through the fallopian tube, spermatozoa begin to attack it. Millions of sperm cells surround the egg and vie for fertilization. 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 impenetrable for the rest of the sperm.

30 hours after the fusion of the sperm and the 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 delivery. The embryo does not yet look like a child at all, while it is only a set of cells, 0.150 mm in size, but it already possesses 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) multiple pregnancies may begin to develop.

An ultrasound scan at the 3rd week of pregnancy can show exactly where the ovum is attached. At this stage, your healthcare provider can determine if the pregnancy is normal or ectopic. An ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening future maternal 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, the 4th week of pregnancy has come. What is happening at this stage? Firstly, the fertilized egg attached to the wall of the uterus can now be safely called an embryo, although it still does not look like a little man at all, but rather resembles a flat disc, which consists of three layers (germ layers). Each layer is transformed into internal organs during the growth and development of the embryo. The cells of the inner layer (endoderm) are the future digestive tract, liver, pancreas and thyroid glands, and 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 carry out 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 tirelessly. By the end of the fourth week, blastogenesis, the initial stage of intrauterine development of the embryo, is completed. At 4 weeks gestation, 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 he breathes. Placentation is a lengthy process that will be completed by 12 weeks of gestation.

At this time, the expectant mother can 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. With a gynecological examination, pregnancy in the early stages is quite difficult to determine, the results can be very ambiguous. An ultrasound scan at 4 weeks of gestation is also still not very informative, 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 state. During this period, the hormonal background of a woman undergoes strong changes, causing a rapid change in mood, tearfulness and excessive emotionality. Also, at 5 weeks of pregnancy, the expectant mother may be disturbed by rapid fatigue and general malaise. Many women begin to experience excruciating bouts of nausea and vomiting in the morning - early pregnancy toxicosis, accompanied by headaches, sensitivity to smells and tastes. The appearance of such a symptom as frequent urination during pregnancy is possible.

5 obstetric week of pregnancy is an alarming time for many expectant mothers, especially those who are planning a pregnancy. Miscarriage is not uncommon in early pregnancy, especially if a woman is at risk or has suffered severe stress or trauma. Risk factors for miscarriage or miscarriage usually include: endocrine or genetic disorders, age over 35, gynecological diseases, improper lifestyle, the presence of genital infections, two or more miscarriages in the past. pregnancy, vaginal bleeding, fever) - immediately consult a doctor for all necessary examinations and hospitalization!

Almost half of the first trimester is over, 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 scan at the 6th week of pregnancy already very clearly shows where the embryo is. Around this time, the face is formed: the rudiments of the eyes, nose appear, the future chin, cheeks, and ear canals are drawn. At 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 take place in her body. The uterus of a pregnant woman increases in size, its shape, reactivity, consistency change, blood flow increases. The vaginal mucosa becomes full-blooded, glycogen accumulates in it. Normal discharge at the 6th week of pregnancy is milky or transparent with a uniform consistency and without an unpleasant odor. If your vaginal discharge is yellow or green, you should immediately see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. You also need to immediately seek medical help if you notice brown or bloody discharge - this may be a sign of a threat of termination of pregnancy.

Do you have a stomach ache in your 6th week of pregnancy? Unfortunately, early miscarriage is not uncommon. If you are at risk (your previous pregnancies ended in spontaneous interruption, 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 undergo examinations in a timely manner.

The 7th week of pregnancy has come. The development and growth of the embryo continues, the most basic parts of the brain have been formed, the nervous and cardiovascular systems are improving, limbs and gonads are slowly developing. An ultrasound scan 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 in the woman's body, lack of oxygen, excessive exercise, stress. Even improper nutrition 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. Taking medications uncontrolled during pregnancy can cause serious damage to health and have a negative impact on 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. including gadgets), drink a glass of cool still water, apply a wet compress to the forehead and take a horizontal position. If possible, ask your husband or someone close to you to give you a relaxing head and neck massage.

8 weeks pregnant is the best time to register with a 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 give directions for blood and urine tests. if you did not have time to do it earlier (for example, to clarify the pregnancy that took place). Screening of the first trimester is carried out a little later - at 11-13 weeks of pregnancy.

At 8 weeks of pregnancy, the belly of the expectant mother may periodically ache: some women note slight contractions of the uterus (early training contractions) and unpleasant painful sensations associated with stretching the ligaments holding the growing uterus. Drawing pains in the lower abdomen is a serious reason to consult a doctor, as their appearance may indicate a threat of termination of pregnancy!

At this stage, the expectant mother has already enlarged her breasts, under the influence of the hormone prolactin, the glands responsible for the production of breast milk begin to grow. From the 8th week, the cervix softens, and the mucous membrane of the cervical canal produces cervical secretions. 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 plug from the cervical canal is one of the harbingers of an impending birth.

8 obstetric week of pregnancy is the period when the fetus has the formation of the genitals and the production of 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 arise in the small nose, and taste papillae in the tongue. At 8 weeks gestation, the fetus has reached the size of a small grape and already weighs about 0.25 g.

The third month of pregnancy has begun. At this stage, the figure of expectant mothers changes: at the 9th week of pregnancy, the belly increases slightly, the breasts continue to grow, the pregnant woman notes special sensitivity and soreness of the nipples, in some women, already at this time, colostrum may be released little by little. , stool disturbances, morning sickness in a pregnant woman, frequent urination are standard phenomena at 9 weeks.

Discharge at the 9th week of pregnancy during this period is usually unremarkable, however, the expectant mother needs to monitor their changes. Bloody or brown vaginal discharge may indicate the need for urgent hospitalization to rule out the possibility of termination of pregnancy. If you notice suspicious discharge of a yellowish, greenish tint, with an unpleasant odor, curdled, flaky or other atypical consistency, it makes sense to immediately consult a doctor. Any sexually transmitted infection in your position is a great danger to the life and health of the fetus. Do not self-medicate under any circumstances, entrust your health to specialists!

The fetus is actively growing at the 9th week of pregnancy, it has already got rid of the gills, and its tail will disappear very soon. The arcuate body of the baby is slowly acquiring a human form, internal organs are developing, and life support systems are being established. For a more accurate assessment of the condition of the fetus and its development, your doctor may order an ultrasound scan at 9 weeks of pregnancy.

The 10th week of pregnancy has come. The belly of the expectant mother continues to increase, the breasts - to fill up and ache. Active hormonal changes in a woman's body provoke early toxicosis. Nausea and recurrent vomiting are accompanied by other sensations - drowsiness, fatigue, absent-mindedness, headaches. Also, the expectant mother may have mood swings, increased excitability and emotional instability. Pigmented spots during pregnancy - another little "surprise" awaiting a woman in the early stages. However, experts say there is no reason for worry: skin hyperpigmentation disappears soon after the onset of childbirth. Expectant mothers are advised to be very careful in the sun and use special sunscreens.

The 10th week of a woman's pregnancy is a high time to update your wardrobe and switch to more comfortable clothes. It is not recommended to wear familiar jeans, tight skirts, 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, perhaps right now you will need to wear special underwear that will support the bust without applying pressure or disrupting blood circulation. Even if you have small breasts, get a nursing bra - you will appreciate its comfort.

At 10 weeks of gestation, the fetus does not stop growing for a second. He has already reached the size of a small strawberry and looks more and more like a person. The organs of sight and hearing are formed, the rudiments of future teeth are born. At this time, the baby has full 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 coarse, the nipples become even more sensitive. In the woman's body, an increase in metabolism occurs, associated with the increasing need for the fetus for nutrients. Some pregnant women notice the appearance of sweating during this period, as well as a constant feeling of thirst. Right now, most mums have brittle nails, and their hair dull and prone to falling out. The skin also undergoes changes during pregnancy: the work of the sebaceous glands increases, thereby causing the appearance of unwanted oily sheen, acne and enlarged pores.

In some pregnant women at 11 weeks, the opposite picture is observed: hormones have a beneficial effect on the condition of hair, skin and nails. This difference is explained by the individual characteristics of the organism; the nutrition of the pregnant woman during this period is also of great importance. Correctly selected vitamins for pregnant women, as well as various cosmetic procedures that are not prohibited by your doctor, will help to solve the problem.

At 11 obstetric weeks, the little man growing inside you begins to smell: he already smells the food that you eat. The baby 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 is able to roll over 360 degrees and push off from the walls of the uterus, but the expectant mother still does not feel his movements - this will happen later.

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

The 12th week of pregnancy is a relatively calm time for the expectant mother. During this period, early toxicosis stops in most women, and the general condition of the body improves. At the 12th week of pregnancy, the abdomen 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 abdominal discomfort. At this stage, many mothers notice an improvement in their appetite and start eating "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 for prenatal screening, which includes an ultrasound scan and a biochemical analysis of the mother's blood. The purpose of this study is to assess the course of pregnancy and the development of the fetus. It is during this period that it is possible to recognize the presence of chromosomal abnormalities and genetic diseases in the fetus (for example, fetal neural tube defect, Down's syndrome), deformation or absence of organs and limbs. For a more accurate diagnosis, ultrasound at 12 weeks of gestation is performed by the transvaginal method.

A child at 12 weeks gestation has reached the size of a small passion fruit and weighs about 9-14 g. Its internal organs develop and improve every day, nail beds appear on small fingers, and in them the rudiments of marigolds. At this stage, the genitals of the fetus are also manifested, however, it is still not possible to determine the sex of the unborn child. The expectant mother always listens to the sensations: 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 tangible.

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 more secure and subject to lower 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 an attentive attitude to her health. Proper nutrition of a pregnant woman, adherence to all the prescriptions of the attending physician, walks in the fresh air and complete peace of mind are the key to the successful course of your 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 with itself almost the entire hip region and rises into the abdominal region. At each examination, the gynecologist will now measure the height of the fundus of the uterus. Normally, the height of the fundus of the uterus corresponds to the obstetric term in weeks and is easily palpable. The approximate size of a pregnant woman's uterus at 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, since it becomes more elastic and softer, and the contractions are short-lived. If a pregnant woman feels a slight pain 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 quietest period in the process of bearing a child. Irritability and nervousness give way to a feeling of peace and tranquility, but increased tearfulness can accompany you during the entire period of pregnancy. Enjoy your position, wellness and mood.

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

At the 14th week of pregnancy, neoplasms may appear on the woman's skin - moles and papillomas (soft warts). Don't worry, papillomas are common during pregnancy. When hormones return to normal, they will disappear. If you have previously had papillomas, and you notice that they change in size and grow, and the birthmarks grow and darken, you should consult a doctor to find out the reasons.

Also, the expectant mother may have another trouble - condylomas (warts) in the vagina or anus. Their appearance is associated with the papilloma virus - this is also a problem that should be consulted with a doctor. Warts during pregnancy are especially dangerous, they can cause complications, as they tend to grow, thereby blocking the birth canal, subsequently preventing childbirth. However, the most annoying thing is that during childbirth, your baby can also be infected with this virus. So the treatment of genital warts is a mandatory measure for maintaining the health of not only the expectant mother, but also the baby.

The development of pregnancy at 15 weeks introduces some unfavorable 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 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 a large amount of nutrients, vitamins and minerals, especially calcium and proteins.

The belly 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 on the abdomen of a dark strip extending from the navel downward. Don't worry - this is temporary and will disappear soon after giving birth.

The uterus at 15 weeks of gestation becomes even larger compared to the previous 14 weeks. The height of the fundus of the uterus is 14 cm. A 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 stool are not excluded. Constipation during pregnancy causes discomfort and discomfort not only to the expectant mother, but to the fetus. After all, the timely cleansing of the intestines of a pregnant woman helps to eliminate toxins and toxins. Therefore, in order to avoid constipation, it is recommended to revise your diet. Diversify your diet at 15 weeks of pregnancy with healthy healthy foods: vegetables and fruits, whole grain bread, meat, cheese, cereals, dairy products, sprouted cereals, cottage cheese, drink at least 2 liters of water per day.

16 weeks pregnant 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 it is even difficult to grasp them, 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 the "movements of a fish", "fluttering of a butterfly" or "bursting of bubbles". The belly at 16 weeks of gestation continues to round,

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

17 weeks pregnant - 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 at their best. It is important for a pregnant woman to get more rest, walk, eat right and do special exercises. The belly at 17 weeks of gestation continues to grow with the fetus, which by this time is already the size of a pear. At the beginning of the fifth month of pregnancy, there are some changes associated with the increased activity of the baby - for him it is 15 weeks 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 in the 17th week of pregnancy becomes more energetic, and some sensitive pregnant women may feel the first slight movements of their child. 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 17 weeks, bleeding of the gums and nosebleeds may occur as a result of such heart activity. Also, women note during this period increased sweating and more abundant vaginal discharge.

The 18th week of pregnancy has come, during this period pregnant women usually no longer experience toxicosis, but they may face 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 abdomen becomes even larger, a redistribution of the center of gravity occurs. 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 enlarging uterus on the nerve plexuses located in these places. It is very important to choose the right clothing that will support your already rather round belly and will not squeeze it.

A growing belly and growing anxiety about your baby can lead to sleep disturbances in a pregnant woman. Special pillows will help you to adopt a comfortable sleeping position and, at least partially, relieve tension. The same pillows will be very useful after the birth of the baby, when the mother begins to breastfeed her baby.

So, 19th week of pregnancy. The feelings of many expectant mothers are full of excitement and joy, because fetal movements become more pronounced. Some pregnant women feel how the baby has begun to move earlier, but mostly this happens precisely at the period from 18 to 22 weeks. Sometimes fetal movement at the 19th week of pregnancy is absent, thereby causing excitement in expectant mothers. If the course of the pregnancy itself is going well, there are no reasons for worry - everything will happen soon, you just need to be patient. It should be noted that overweight women begin to feel fetal movements later. And vice versa, thin women or those who were already in an interesting position before record the activity of their child.

As soon as the expectant mother felt the first fetal movements during pregnancy, she should pay attention to their frequency: on average, the baby will be active 4-8 times per hour. If the mother's blood lacks oxygen or nutrients, the activity of the fetus increases. Perhaps your attending physician has already talked about what fetal hypoxia is and how it is dangerous. What should the expectant mother take? Take care of your baby and provide him with more oxygen. Long walks in the fresh air, deep breaths and exhalations, 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 child's activity can also change from the emotional state of the mother. It is important for expectant parents to be aware that any stress causes great harm to the health and nervous system of their baby. Pregnancy should take place with the woman's full emotional comfort.

Week 20 is the end of the fifth month of pregnancy. During this period, expectant mothers note an increase in pain in the lumbar and back. This is due to a shift in the center of gravity and additional stress 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 usual 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. A very good effect is given by water aerobics for pregnant women and exercises on fitball. It is worth giving up shoes with heels, keeping your posture and trying not to burden your back. Clothes for pregnant women should also be as comfortable as possible, preferably made from natural fabrics and without belly straps, elastic bands, etc. Following these recommendations will definitely help if you have back pain during pregnancy.

Pregnancy cramps are another unpleasant phenomenon that worries expectant mothers. The reason for their appearance may be a deficiency of vitamins and other microelements, 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 deficiencies, it is recommended to take a vitamin-mineral complex, developed specifically for pregnant women. However, it is better to select vitamins for pregnant women in conjunction with the attending physician in order to avoid trouble.

Your doctor may also order an ultrasound scan to assess the progress of your position of interest. An ultrasound scan at the 20th week of pregnancy will tell not only about how your baby is growing and developing, but also about the state of the amniotic fluid and the placenta. In some pregnant women at this time, placenta previa is diagnosed - a pathology in which the placenta is completely or partially located in the lower segment of the uterus (in the area of ​​the internal uterine pharynx, i.e. on the path of childbirth).

The 21st week has come, which means that half of the gestation period has already passed. At the 21st week of pregnancy, your belly is already becoming noticeable to others, fetal movements are felt more clearly, some mothers note the special activity of babies and even see their movements. What happens to a 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 being actively formed. At this time, the nutrition of a pregnant woman should be especially balanced and healthy. 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 21 weeks of gestation 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 the pressure of the uterus on the diaphragm and lungs, and in many expectant mothers it persists until the onset of childbirth. A simple, but quite effective way to cope with a lack of oxygen is breathing exercises for pregnant women. If breathing is difficult at night, try sleeping in a semi-seated position with a couple of large pillows under your head.

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

At 22 weeks gestation, the fetus has reached the size of a squash, its movements in the still quite spacious womb of the mother become more intense. The expectant mother can understand which 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 often than usual, or practically does not move, immediately contact your doctor, he will help determine why the child is moving less.

At this time, expectant mothers complain about the inconvenience associated with choosing a comfortable position for rest, because at 22 weeks of pregnancy, the belly is already large enough and does not allow you to sleep as 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 22 weeks, expectant mothers note their increased emotionality and sensitivity, some are experiencing cravings for certain foods and their combinations. Experts recommend monitoring the nutrition of the 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 fulfillment of all the prescriptions of the attending physician will help the expectant mother to cope with the illness.

Another unpleasant "surprise" that may await women at 22 weeks 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 22 weeks of gestation increases in size and begins to squeeze the vessels. Because of this, the outflow of blood worsens and its stagnation forms. Treatment of hemorrhoids during pregnancy is carried out under the strict guidance of a doctor: he will tell you what changes need to be made to your diet, what exercises for pregnant women to perform and prescribe an effective therapy that is right for you. Suppositories for hemorrhoids during pregnancy or an 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 is very active, the expectant mother clearly feels his movements and can determine exactly where he is. If the child pushes unusually hard, too often, or, on the contrary, his movements began to be felt less often or completely disappeared, immediately contact your doctor. 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 burden of the expectant mother. During this period, you should not lift weights and overexert yourself, it is advisable to use a bandage for pregnant women. Despite the constantly enlarging belly, at 23 weeks of gestation, it is recommended not to reduce physical activity and more often be in the fresh air in order to provide the baby with good oxygen nutrition. Fetal hypoxia is a serious problem; in order to prevent it, it is necessary to follow all the recommendations of the attending physician 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, stick to your drinking regime, 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 23 weeks of gestation 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 strengthening the immune system, since during this period it is extremely 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 grows. At the 24th week of pregnancy, the baby sleeps about 18-20 hours a day. Sometimes the child kicks around at night, or when you go to rest during the day. This may indicate that he is hungry. Allow yourself a healthy light snack to help calm your baby's movements. Experts recommend that expectant mothers observe the daily regimen and diet, thus teaching babies to stay awake and sleep at the same time.

At 24 weeks of gestation, the uterus continues to grow, its bottom is in the navel area. At this stage of pregnancy, many women begin to feel false contractions, they are also called training contractions. 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 irregular, but if you experience stomach pain during pregnancy, see your doctor right away. Watery discharge at 24 weeks gestation can also indicate the onset of premature labor. Be vigilant and careful!

25 weeks pregnant - during this period, many expectant mothers are worried about premature birth. But do not cheat yourself and bother your head with this if there are no alarming symptoms. However, if your stomach hurts during pregnancy, your lower back is pulled, and you have a watery vaginal discharge for 25 weeks, see your doctor right away.

If you haven't started preparing your nipples for breastfeeding yet, it's time to start. To do this, make it a rule to wash your nipples and areola circles with cold water and wipe them off with a coarse waffle towel. This simple manipulation will allow you to protect yourself in the future from such a nuisance as cracked nipples. Perform 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, which will help you choose a phlebologist. Try not to strain your legs and wear comfortable maternity shoes. When resting, place your feet on a pillow or roller to improve blood circulation and relieve tension.

A growing belly at 25 weeks 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 weighs about 800 g. The expectant mother even more perceptibly feels 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 - the fetal movement test, in which the expectant mother marks every tenth baby movement from 9:00 to 21:00. Under normal conditions, the tenth movement is noted before 17:00. If the number of movements in 12 hours is less than 10, tell your doctor. Lack of fetal activity within 12 hours is a very serious signal, urgently consult a doctor! 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 sounds. The baby reacts sensitively to sharp slaps or knocks, they cause him anxiety, and screaming and noise frighten him. The most pleasant sound for a baby even after birth is the beating of the mother's heart. He already has developed taste buds, grasping and sucking reflexes are actively developing. He looks less and less like a wrinkled old man, the skin is gradually smoothed out and changes color.

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

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

At 27 weeks gestation, some expectant mothers may experience involuntary urination when sneezing or laughing violently. 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 pressure from the uterus on the internal organs. Try to eat in small portions, but often, do not overuse sweet and starchy foods. Compliance with the drinking regime, feasible physical activity, exercise 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 premature labor) and specific pain. Timely diagnosis by the attending physician will help to avoid troubles and carry the baby out 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. He becomes cramped in his mother's tummy, the baby practically does not change his body position, but continues to push his mother with his legs and arms. The expectant mother needs to continue to track fetal movements and mark them in a special table. At 28 weeks of gestation, the baby opens his eyes for the first time and can distinguish between light and shadow. The child's brain is actively developing and has several distinct convolutions. During this period, the foundations of the psyche and character traits of the child are laid.

Pregnant women at 28 weeks notice the sensitivity of the skin, many begin to itch the chest, thighs, abdomen. At the 28th week of pregnancy, the issue of combating stretch marks is especially relevant. Do not ignore the advice of your 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 breast, and colostrum begins to stand out from the nipples. During this period, the expectant mother needs to especially 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 clothes and curtains.

So, the 29th week of pregnancy has come. There is only 1 week left before the coveted maternity leave. You will be able to pay more attention to yourself and your baby, attend school for expectant mothers, and focus on the final period of pregnancy. If you are still working, try not to overwork. Even when doing household chores, ask your family for help. Premature birth at this time is not a widespread phenomenon, 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 gestation should be about 10-12 kg. The rate of weight gain is approximately 300-350 g per week. If the pregnant woman is recovering more rapidly, you need 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 to solve the problem. But do not lose your vigilance: any manifestation of pronounced edema 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 pungent odor. In case of detection of bloody discharge, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor, as this may be a sign of premature birth, previa or placental abruption.

Feeling hot 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 activates the processes of sweating and increases the load on the heart. In some pregnant women, blood pressure decreases, and 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 pushes and kicks rather painfully, rests his limbs against the internal organs or ribs.

Sometimes pregnant women complain of painful sensations that fetal movements bring to them. This can occur due to an uncomfortable state - do not be nervous, avoid places in which you may feel bad, both mentally and physically. If suddenly you feel that the uterus is tense, relax, turn on pleasant music and rest. Stroking the belly and gentle words will soothe the baby. A fetus at 30 weeks gestation is very sensitive to maternal affection.

At the 30th week of pregnancy, the belly of the expectant mother has grown significantly and changed her gait. Some clumsiness is associated not only with the addition of centimeters in the waist, but also with the relaxation of the articular ligaments and water retention in the body. Weight at 30 weeks of gestation has 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 bends.

30 week of pregnancy is the period for going on maternity leave for working expectant mothers. Finally, you can devote more time to your health and preparation for childbirth. If you have not enrolled in the school for expectant mothers yet - do it 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 the doctor can most accurately determine the presentation (with the help of careful palpation) and an unscheduled ultrasound scan at 30 weeks of gestation.

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 unpleasant symptoms such as heartburn, constipation or hemorrhoids. During pregnancy at 31 weeks, it is necessary to constantly monitor the condition of the expectant mother, especially if there is a uterine fibroid during pregnancy or scars after a cesarean section.

The nutrition of a pregnant woman during this period should be as useful and digestible as possible. To prevent bouts of nausea, heartburn and constipation, you need to eat small meals, but often. Your diet should be based on 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 bothers almost all women, a special salt-free diet, performing feasible exercises, correction of nutrition and drinking regimen will help to deal with them. If you begin to notice severe swelling of the face, fingers, abdomen or lower back, immediately consult a doctor, perhaps these are signs of a serious complication - gestosis of pregnant women.

A baby at 31 weeks gestation takes a final position in the womb: as a rule, this position is head down. If the doctor 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 it is already becoming more and more like a newborn baby. The baby's skin turns pink due to subcutaneous fat, which hides its blood vessels, the capillaries no longer shine through it. The kid is actively gaining weight, his internal organs and reflexes develop and improve. The mother feels very well at the 31st week of pregnancy, experts recommend continuing to monitor the baby's activity and filling out a special table of fetal movements.

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

At 32 weeks gestation, the uterus continues to put pressure on the internal organs, provoking shortness of breath, heartburn and frequent constipation. A pregnant woman has training contractions - practically painless contractions of the uterus, preparing her for the upcoming birth. Some women report that they sweat more than usual at 32 weeks of gestation and feel heat in their bodies. This is due to the acceleration of metabolic processes in the body of a pregnant woman, affecting the work of the heart and the process of sweating.

The fetus continues to grow and gain weight at 32 weeks gestation. It is already the size of a large head of Chinese cabbage and weighs approximately 1.6-1.7 kg. The child hears how the organs of the mother work, listens to her voice and is able to distinguish his sound from any other. Outwardly, the baby also changes - hair, nails grow, wrinkles are smoothed out, cheeks appear, the original lubricant is gradually washed off. Almost all of the child's organs are already formed, the head and body are proportional, it remains to put on 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 32 weeks of gestation, 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 in that 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 more and more cramped in his mother's belly: no somersaults, no coups. The amount of amniotic fluid also decreases, the movements of the fetus are felt by the mother more and more sharply. At this time, the development of the child continues to gain momentum: the immune, nervous and endocrine systems are completing their formation, muscle and subcutaneous fat continue to build up. If suddenly the expectant mother begins premature birth at 33 weeks of gestation, the likelihood of having a live and healthy baby is very high.

At 33 weeks of gestation, the belly of the expectant mother continues to grow, delivering more and more discomfort while sleeping, walking or doing business. At 33 weeks gestation, the uterus rises even higher and puts even more pressure on the stomach and other organs. The pregnant woman still experiences heartburn, sometimes belching occurs. It becomes difficult to breathe and shortness of breath appears after physical exertion. After a couple of weeks, the belly of the pregnant woman will begin to sink down and the woman will feel a little lighter.

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

To prevent edema during rest, you should put your feet above your head, for example, on a pillow or a rolled-up blanket, wear comfortable shoes for pregnant women, and do special exercises. It is not recommended for a pregnant woman to stand, sit, or be in stuffy rooms for a long time. A pregnant woman's diet should be balanced and healthy. To prevent edema, 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.

The 34th week of pregnancy has begun. 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 help to increase the elasticity of some joints and ligaments - all this is necessary for easier movement of the child through the birth canal. The enlarging uterus at 34 weeks of gestation puts a lot of pressure on the bladder, for this reason, the expectant mother has frequent urination, and sometimes urinary incontinence may occur.

Pregnant women continue to experience heartburn, some mothers complain of shortness of breath, problems with stools and hemorrhoids. Swelling during pregnancy (especially severe) is a reason to consult a doctor and pass all the necessary tests. Gestosis of pregnant women is a serious pathology in which toxins are released into the body of the expectant mother, which can lead to fetal development disorders at 34 weeks of gestation and even to its death. The development of gestosis in a pregnant woman is indicated by the presence of protein in the urine and a change in blood pressure.

The baby at 34 weeks of gestation continues to grow actively. It has already reached the size of a butternut squash and weighs about 1.9-2 kg. In the third trimester, the child's cardiovascular system is actively formed. His heart rate is almost 2 times higher than that of an adult. Putting your ear to the belly of the expectant mother, you can hear the heartbeat of the fetus. 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 kidneys and all vital systems work better. If the expectant mother begins premature birth at 34 weeks of gestation, there is a great 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 stay active. At the 35th week of pregnancy, the breast of the expectant mother is already in full preparation for feeding the baby: it has increased in size, is full and aches. A nursing bra is what you need. It will not squeeze or irritate and will support your enlarged breasts well.

The belly has already become very large and causes a lot of inconvenience. At 35 weeks gestation, the uterus became huge, pressed down on the stomach and lungs. At the end of 35 weeks, the belly of the pregnant woman will begin to lower and breathe easier. 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 the 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 gestation continues to grow and has already reached the size of a cantaloupe. Its weight increases every week by 200-250 g. The fetal movements become more constrained, because there is practically no free space in my mother's belly. Now he is not so much pushing as he rolls, protruding different parts of the body. At this stage, the intrauterine development of the fetus is already quite high, the work of its internal organs and reflexes is adjusted. If the expectant mother begins to deliver prematurely at 35 weeks of gestation, the likelihood of having a healthy baby is very high. However, experts agree that for guaranteed survival of the child and its further development, pregnancy must be kept until the expected date of birth.

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

It's time for the expectant mother to start solving organizational issues: choose a place for giving birth, choose a doctor and collect a bag for the hospital. From the 36th week of pregnancy, childbirth can occur at any time, and the expectant mother should be ready for this. Since the obstetrician cannot determine the onset of pregnancy with an accuracy of a week, an error of 2 weeks is not uncommon, and at 37-38 weeks of gestation, childbirth is no longer considered premature.

At 36 weeks of pregnancy, the belly of the expectant mother delivers 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 edema and moves more difficult. At 36 weeks gestation, the uterus continues to press on the internal organs, causing shortness of breath and heartburn. In some women, abdominal prolapse occurs at this time: the baby slowly moves closer to the "exit", occupying the presenting part (head or buttocks) of the pelvic floor. By the way, a baby at 36 weeks pregnant is already the size of a large papaya, its weight is about 2.5 kg.

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

At 37 weeks gestation, the baby is already ready for birth, but his body continues to change and prepare for childbirth. The baby's body gradually becomes plump due to the accumulating subcutaneous fat, the skin is smoothed, becomes elastic and takes on a pink tint. The fetus at 37 weeks of gestation is fully developed: all systems of his body are ready to start working, the hormone cortisol is produced, which promotes the ripening of the lungs. Meconium has accumulated in the baby's intestines - the original feces, which will be released on the first day, from 3 to 20 hours after birth. By the way, the elimination 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 a backache, and shooting pain in the legs and perineum is also possible. The belly at 37 weeks of gestation hardens several times a day - training contractions occur. At this time, aging of the placenta is noted, precursors of close childbirth may appear: the release of a 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.

For a period of 37 weeks, the movement of the child often brings painful sensations to the expectant mother, now his stomach is very cramped: the amniotic fluid has become even less, the size and weight of the child are increasing. It turns out that the uterus at the 37th week of pregnancy now presses not only on the internal organs of the mother, but also squeezes the baby. Fetal movements must also be controlled at 37 weeks of gestation: there should be at least 10 of them per day. In the last days of pregnancy, the child's activity decreases, he calms down a little 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 ready to be taken to the hospital at any time. If you haven't packed your bag for the hospital yet, it's time to take care of it now. Also, collect all the necessary documents: you need to take your passport, medical policy, exchange card and birth certificate to the maternity hospital. Fold all your documents into one folder or file and carry them with you in your purse, especially when traveling.

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

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

Expectant mothers are often worried: how to identify contractions and distinguish them from false ones? Experts recommend staying calm, because you will definitely not miss the birth. Real contractions are more tangible and painful than training contractions, they are repeated periodically, increasing their frequency and intensity on an increasing basis. To distinguish false contractions from real ones, change your posture: get 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 time. 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 observing the activity of her child and, in the event of a "lull", immediately consult a doctor.

At 39 weeks, pregnant women begin active "nesting" - a state in which a woman tries her best to put things in order and create as much comfort in the house as possible. At this time, women may feel a surge of strength, unusual lightness (despite a huge belly at 39 weeks gestation) and a desire to "move 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 your future dad or caring relatives.

For a safe delivery and well-being of the expectant mother and child, doctors recommend not neglecting long walks. Ideally, in late pregnancy, you should walk for at least 3 hours a day, if there are no problems and you are not shown bed rest. Fetal hypoxia is a dangerous phenomenon throughout pregnancy, the end of the third trimester is no exception. To prevent it, it is important not only to breathe fresh air, but also to continue eating right, doing feasible exercises for pregnant women, avoiding stress and any conditions that negatively affect you and your pregnancy.

At 39 weeks gestation, many women lose up to 2 kg in weight. There is nothing to worry about - the body removes excess fluid. At 39 weeks of gestation, the total increase in women is on average 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 imminent birth.

The 40th week of pregnancy is the final stage of bearing a baby, and the body of the expectant mother is almost ready for the upcoming birth. Now you should be ready for the birth of your baby - from the bag to the hospital and documents, to complete order in the apartment and the availability of everything you need to care for your baby. Fear of childbirth, increased stress, anxiety - all these negatively affect your baby. Try to tune 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 fetal movements: 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 deprivation or other problems that require the immediate intervention of specialists.

One of the most important signs of an early birth 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 the fetus, stops being produced at 40 weeks of gestation. The cervix becomes softer, the canal begins to open, and after that the mucous plug comes off. Other no less indicative precursors of childbirth are lowering of the abdomen, the occurrence of training contractions, pain in the lower back, sacrum or womb, outpouring of amniotic fluid. Be on the lookout!

If you are 40 weeks pregnant and labor is not starting - do not worry, your “X” hour will come soon!

The estimated due date is behind, and your pregnancy is still ongoing and, by the way, is not considered delayed. At this time, the expectant mother feels awkward 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 from scratch. This is directly related to their hormonal levels 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 gestation, a pregnant woman's discharge may become more intense and mucus-like (transparent or 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 pass amniotic fluid, which looks like a clear, thin, odorless liquid. The discharge of water in pregnant women can occur in different ways: it can be a leak, a trickle outflow, or a one-time outpouring. Many expectant mothers may not notice this process at all. This happens in cases when a small crack or a small rupture appears 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 the onset of labor themselves by taking castor oil or resorting to other questionable or even dangerous methods of speeding up labor. Experts urge women “not to engage in amateur performances” and seek timely help.

Many women who have delivered a baby before 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 harbingers of childbirth and are mentally preparing for a trip to the hospital.

At 42 weeks of gestation, there is a risk of aging of the placenta and the development of various pathologies. Fetal hypoxia, deficiency of nutrients, the likelihood of infection or entanglement with the umbilical cord - all this can be prevented if you consult 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, measure the abdomen. At 42 weeks of pregnancy, the expectant mother may be prescribed additional examinations and, if necessary, will be admitted to the 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 baby is more difficult to pass the birth canal and, as a rule, the recovery period after childbirth will be longer. Also, if the fetus has ossification of the skull, during natural childbirth, the woman may have ruptures. To avoid serious damage to the genitals and perineum of a woman, as well as traumatic brain injury in the baby, doctors may resort to a surgical incision - an episiotomy.