Your changing body You may be counting the days now! You probably may have not noticed much change in your body since last week. However, you still may be feeling huge and uncomfortable. Start watching out for early signs of labor like blood discharge, increased contractions, water breakage and the loss of the mucous plug (collection of cervical mucus that seals the opening of the uterus). Read more about stages of labor.
During week 40, you may go into labor anytime now. Your Cervix may gradually soften and becomes thinner. This process is called effacement and it is an indicator that labor is getting closer. However, it may be difficult to pinpoint the start of labor. If you experience a trickle or flow of fluid from your vagina, it is likely that your water breaks. It is the leakage of Amniotic Fluid after the membrane surrounding your baby has been ruptured. Call your doctor right away. Do not panic as it may be hours before you have your labor. So relax! |
Things to consider
You must be quite excited as you will be holding your precious one soon. Don’t get disheartened if your due date has come and go. Remember only 5 percent of the babies are born on their expected due date. It is usually safe if your baby is slightly overdue; however if you haven’t gone into labor till 42 weeks, your doctor may probably induce labor. So stay calm.
Once your water breaks, your doctor may probably induce labor within 24 h if you are at or near your due date as the risk of infection to your baby and/or to you increases as time passes.
What should you do if your water breaks? - Call your doctor right away.
- Keep your vaginal area as clean as possible to avoid infection.
- Don’t have sexual intercourse.
- Use a pad to absorb the flow.
- Always wipe from front to back when you used toilet.
Click here to read about newborn care. |