At week 41, it may feel as though your baby is taking too long to be delivered yet there are no visible signs but do not worry, this is normal.
Your baby’s extra time allowed him or her to add a few pounds. It might feel a bit crowded in there with the weight weighing on you. Instead, pay attention to fetal movement, keep counting the kicks and if you notice a decrease in the movement make sure to call your doctor.
Your baby at week 41
During week 41 your baby is still as big as a large watermelon but has added a few inches and pounds. The baby weighs about 7.9 pounds and is 20.4 inches in size.
Your baby is now fully developed and if they were to be delivered they would survive and function like a normal baby. The daily kicks are still happening in your belly as the baby can now control their limbs fully.
Symptoms
During week 41, there’s a continuation of your other third trimester symptoms and they might be stronger as the baby nears delivery day. These are;
● Pelvic pressure discomforts
● Difficulty sleeping
● Frequent urination
● Hemorrhoids
● Contractions
● Fatigue
Some of the signs might indicate labour:
● Water breakage or constant leakage suggesting the amniotic sac has broken.
● Frequent and painful contractions that are not the normal Braxton Hicks contractions.
Exercises
These are:
● Long deep breaths
● Elevating your feet for the swelling
What can you do to ensure your baby stays healthy?
From now on your gynae visits will be frequent and in case you have not had your biophysical profile done, now is the time to get it. If you encounter any complications, talk to your doctor about it and they can induce labor to get the baby out.
For more safety tips on how to get your baby ready for delivery, you can visit our clinic at Jacaranda Maternity hospital. During the visit you’ll have your vitals and physical examination taken. The Gynaecologist will review the ultrasound, advice if the baby is presenting well, or whether in breech position, and advice on the readiness of your pelvic bone to handle normal delivery. Options for induction of labour will also be discussed and if labour does not begin naturally by now, you will be booked in for around 10-14 days after your due date to prevent postdate baby complications.