Month 8 of pregnancy – what to expect
Fun fact: during these last few weeks your baby can grow by up to half a pound per week as she creates fatty layers to help her regulate her temperature after she’s born.
Your due date is now very much in sight (and probably circled on the calendar…) & the end is getting ever closer!
So, what can you expect to feel this month?
Backache
With all the pressure on your spine (not to mention your bladder!) you’ll probably start to find it hard get comfortable. Try not to do too much, so no heavy lifting or anything that is too strenuous on your back. For example, go shopping at your own pace and do not try to rush around too much! And come evening, why not ask your other half for a nice back massage… This will also help you to relax before bed (with your ever more cumbersome body, you’ll probably find it hard to sleep too)
Mood swings
As the end of your pregnancy nears, you might find that you develop a short temper, get flustered easily and get a bit… stressy. If you feel yourself starting to get annoyed (which is completely common and understandable) try a few breathing techniques to help calm yourself down. These will also come in handy for labour!
Leakage…
Due to the extra pressure on your bladder (and elsewhere!) you might notice a little bit of leakage down below after sneezing, coughing or laughing. This is completely normal throughout pregnancy and is especially common during the last few weeks. If you’re nervous or embarrassed about this, consider using panty liners and keep doing your Kegel exercises.
Even more leakage…
Oh no, it doesn’t just stop there! You may find that your boobs leak a light, creamy liquid which is colostrum. You may even find that this happens (or is heavier) when you hear a new born baby crying – this includes on the TV! It’s no biggie, just your body getting ready for your baby – colostrum is the pre-milk liquid that you produce and is key for a healthy child.
Image credit: http://pixabay.com/static/uploads/photo/2014/11/06/07/00/pregnant-518793_640.jpg