Mom's development

Month 8

Are you feeling breathless? This growing baby is taking up a lot of space that you used to use to breathe. By the end of the ninth month, the baby will have dropped down into the pelvis, but until then you might find yourself huffing and puffing a little. Slow down a bit, and rest more often. You may find that an assortment of pillows is helpful in propping you up and supporting your tummy as you lay on your side.

Laying flat on your back should be avoided because of the weight that it applies to the arteries and veins that supply your pelvis and lower extremities. The increasing weight of the uterus does affect the circulation to the lower extremities – as well as putting more demand on them in carrying additional cargo. Your calves, thighs or feet may cramp up and leave your leg feeling achy. Massage those tired legs, and put them up when you get the chance.

As you approach the end of pregnancy, it is important that you continue to feel active periods of fetal movement. This is especially true if you’ve had any complication of pregnancy like hypertension or diabetes, etc. Many clinicians have different formulas for what they consider a “normal” amount of movement. Certainly every baby will not be the same in terms of the amount or quality of movements, but most healthy babies will move frequently. To do a fetal movement count, choose the baby’s most active time of day, and do it at the same time every day. Start the clock and see how long it takes you to record 10 movements – twists, pokes, kicks and turns.

If the fetal activity is slower than normal, have something to eat or drink, walk around for 10 –15 minutes, and then lay down on your left side and see if the movement has picked up. Your baby should move a minimum of 10 times in 4 hours – your particular clinician may have even stricter guidelines. If you have any concerns regarding fetal movements, especially a decrease in the quantity or quality of fetal movements, consult your physician right away.

Some women get a little tired of being pregnant during month eight! –This is a normal feeling because it ‘s getting to be a more uncomfortable time. You may experience back aches, hurting feet, and sleep that is not the best. But the end is nearing, and this is exciting -- and can be concerning. There sure are lots of feelings to sort out as the big day approaches.