The Ninth Month of Pregnancy
Your pregnancy: weeks 36-40. It’s time for the final preparations before the big day. Your baby is considered full term at 37 weeks and is ready for the world however about half of all pregnancies will go beyond 40 weeks.
36 Weeks Pregnant
The countdown has begun.
Still gaining weight, it can measure about 51 centimetres. Slowly, it sheds its downy hair and waxy coating. Nails are fully developed and cranial bones are ossified with fontanels present. At this stage most babies assume a head down inverted position.
37 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby is now ready for the world.
Your baby is now considered full term and is ready for the world – anytime now. Its hair has grown – it could be anything from one to four centimetres long now.
38 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby can now function independently.
Your baby looks plumper and its organs are now fully mature, ready to function independently. It has a firm grasp and reflexes to help it adapt in the world outside. Are you wondering what colour your baby’s eyes will be? You may not be able to tell right away. If your baby is born with brown eyes, they will most likely stay brown. However, if your baby is born with lighter eyes, they may gain more pigment over the next few months and keep changing their colour.
40 Weeks Pregnant
Be prepared!
You’re finally at the finish line of your pregnancy, and the starting line of one amazing journey with your little bundle of joy. Don’t worry if your baby has still not arrived yet, about half of all pregnancies will go beyond this 40 week mark. The journey from inside to the outside has been as difficult for your baby as it was for you. Of course, it’s all worth it.
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