The 10th month of pregnancy is calculated if the pregnancy progresses to 40 weeks or more. It is the end of the third trimester. The gestational period is 39 to 40 weeks and is generally calculated as nine months since some babies are born before 40 weeks (1). A baby born in the 10th month is also considered a term baby, and post-term babies are those born at 41 weeks or more. There is no need for labor induction or C-section on the 10th month of pregnancy since you can wait a few more days to deliver on time. Read on to know more about the 10th month of pregnancy, how it is calculated, and details of this crucial month before your little one arrives.
The Incredible 10th Month of Pregnancy
The curtain raiser event is very close! Since this month is at the threshold of childbirth, here are a few details about each week in the 10th month of pregnancy (2) (3).
Week 37:
You may put on a little more weight than what you have increased in the past have increased in the past few weeks of your pregnancy. Your feet, hands, and ankles start looking swollen and this is due to a lot of fluid getting accumulated in those areas.
A small amount of fat starts accumulating under the baby’s skin. The hair that is covering your baby’s skin starts disappearing at this stage.
There is a rapid development of your baby’s brain in the 37th week of pregnancy, which is around 6-7 pounds in weight (1).
You may experience headaches and stomach aches. To overcome these problems, drink plenty of fluids, try a few yoga positions and start practicing them and concentrate on your breathing.
Week 38:
Your baby has by now occupied your complete space inside and has got very less space to move around.
The weight of your baby is around 3 kg(2). As there is very less space for it to grow now, he or she will not grow much but will put on some weight.
You may be approaching your due dates and may start feeling the uterine contractions.
If the contractions are lasting for one minute and occurring every 10 minutes or less, then you are all set for the special journey of your life.
Week 39:
During this week you may experience a lot of increase in your weight. Also, your feet appear to look too swollen due to water retention
You can also feel the weight of your baby. You may need a lot of rest at this time, simply because it is too exhausting to balance your baby.
The growth of your baby is now complete and it will try to come out as early as possible as there is no space for it to move or grow.
The weight of your baby is now around 6½ – 8 pounds and the height is around 48 cm long. Both height and weight may differ from baby to baby.
Week 40 And 41:
If you are due till the end, don’t worry momma! The big day for your baby and you aren’t too far. Moms sometimes start feeling a burning sensation while urinating and slight fever sometimes, if so, talk to your doctor.
Your baby is now 3 kgs to 3.5 kgs in weight and 50 cms in length.
If you are feeling a burning sensation during peeing at this stage or if there is a heavy discharge from vagina, then contact your doctor immediately.
