Pregnancy is an exciting time and expecting parents have a lot to look forward to during week 37. It’s important to know what to expect as the due date draws closer, especially when it comes to prenatal care, gestational age, nutrition tips, delivery plan and baby shower preparations. Let’s take a look at fetal development, getting ready for childbirth and other important information that new parents should be aware of in their final weeks of pregnancy.
Fetal Development at Week 37
At this point in gestation, babies are considered full-term. This means they have finished developing their major organs and are preparing for life outside the womb. The average size of a baby born in week 37 is 20 inches long with a weight of around 6 pounds 11 ounces. During this stage, the lungs are continuing to develop and produce surfactant which will help them breathe after birth.
Getting Ready for Childbirth
During the last few weeks of pregnancy, parents can begin preparing for labor and delivery by talking with healthcare providers about different birthing options and creating a delivery plan. Answering questions such as where do you want to deliver your baby? Is there anything special you’d like done if labor doesn’t progress naturally? And who would you like present in the room with you during labor? Will also help create an individualized plan that best suits each couple’s needs.
Staying Healthy During Late Pregnancy
As soon as week 37 rolls around, pregnant women need to make sure they’re taking extra steps to stay healthy. This includes maintaining regular doctor visits and avoiding activities that could put the mother or baby at risk. Women should avoid high-impact exercises and opt instead for low-impact activities like walking or swimming. Additionally, staying hydrated and eating nutritious meals packed with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and complex carbohydrates is important for keeping up energy levels and helping the baby grow.
Preparing Physically for Labor & Delivery Day
Preparing physically for labor and delivery day involves making sure that both mom and dad are mentally and emotionally prepared for the big day ahead. Taking Lamaze classes together can help couples better understand the stages of labor so that they feel confident in their ability to handle whatever arises during the delivery process. Also, doing Kegel exercises on a regular basis helps strengthen the pelvic floor muscles in preparation for pushing out the baby.
Eating Right During Week 37 of Pregnancy
The food that pregnant women eat provides nourishment not only to her body but also to her growing baby. Eating nutrient-dense foods can help give mom and baby plenty of energy while providing essential vitamins and minerals needed for optimal growth. A balanced diet filled with plenty of fiber, protein, iron, calcium, vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids is key for ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Some great examples include avocados, dark leafy greens, fish, eggs, sweet potatoes and beans.
Keeping Up With Exercises During Late Pregnancy
Exercise can provide many benefits to pregnant women, including improved circulation, increased energy levels and stress relief. Low impact exercises like yoga, Pilates and light cardio are all safe ways to get some exercise while pregnant. Women should avoid any exercises that involve lying flat on their backs or stomachs as this can restrict blood flow to the uterus. Additionally, women should always listen to their bodies and stop immediately if they start feeling pain or dizziness.
Checklist of Essentials For The Big Day Ahead
It’s important to gather everything needed before going into labor so that you don’t forget something essential on the big day. Have a checklist handy of items like comfy clothes, toiletries, a car seat and phone charger so that you don’t miss anything important. Don’t forget to pack snacks too since hospital stays can sometimes be quite lengthy!
Newborn Supplies You Need Before Delivery Day
In addition to prepping for labor and delivery day, parents also need to think ahead about newborn supplies. Make sure you’ve got things like diapers, wipes, blankets and onesies ready before bringing your little one home from the hospital. Consider stocking up on bottles too just in case breastfeeding doesn’t work out as planned.
Planning Out Your Delivery Date & Timeline Ahead of Time
Having a general idea of when your due date is can help set expectations for the timeline ahead of time. If possible try to plan out your delivery date based on your health provider’s availability. Doing this will help keep you organized and ensure that everyone involved is on the same page leading up to the big event.
Support From Friends & Family Members
The last weeks of pregnancy are an exciting yet stressful time. That’s why having support from friends and family members can make all the difference during this time period. Whether it’s hosting a virtual baby shower or offering emotional support through video calls or text messages, every bit counts. Having a solid support system behind you can go a long way in making this experience a positive one!
With week 37 rapidly approaching, expectant parents must remain informed about what happens during this critical phase of pregnancy. Being knowledgeable about fetal development, understanding how to prepare physically for childbirth and staying healthy throughout late pregnancy are all important factors that play a role in a successful delivery. Knowing what type of newborn supplies are necessary before bringing your little bundle home from the hospital as well as planning out a timeline for delivery day can help make this experience smoother for both parents and their unborn child. Last but not least, having support from loved ones is key for staying positive during these last few weeks before meeting your beautiful baby!