42 weeks pregnant

You’re 42 Weeks Pregnant: What You Need to Know

It is still normal for pregnant women to experience the arrival of their babies past the due date. However, it is crucial for your doctor to monitor the status of your overdue baby closely.

How Big Is My Baby

The baby’s size is probably the size of a large watermelon by this week, weighing more than 140 ounces with a length of 21 to 23 inches on average. Since your baby is still growing, he or she is unlikely too huge to be delivered vaginally.

A hand holding a large watermelon
Think about a larger, heavier watermelon than the last time. That’s about how big your baby is now!

My Baby’s Development

Since your baby has already shed its vernix (a filmy cover on the skin), the skin is most likely getting drier and drier as time passes by. Do not be too worried about this; once they start feeding, their skin will slowly return to its normal state.

What Is My Baby Doing

At this stage, your baby’s brain is continuing to develop. Since they develop more enhanced brain cells, babies born at the 42nd week are proven to be more alert than those born earlier. They tend to have a faster reaction time compared to other babies. If you talk to them or play music for them, they might give you some punches and kicks inside your womb!

Belly Ultrasound

If you view the baby’s ultrasound, you will probably notice that the baby is continuing to grow at a fast pace. They might probably reach around 9 to 9.5 pounds by the end of the week. Because of the growth of the baby, a cesarean section may be necessary.

My Changing Body—Week 42

The consequences of this late delivery are that you are more exposed to more complications in the body. Some of these complications include a pinched umbilical cord, lower amniotic fluid, and problems with your placenta. Hence, it is essential that your practitioner monitors you on a regular basis through heart rate monitoring, ultrasound, and cervical checks.

Common Symptoms

Although you’ll probably have your baby next week, you should still be aware of the common symptoms happening in your body. This way, you can quickly remedy them.

  • More Braxton Hicks Contractions – At this late stage of the pregnancy, you will experience more practice contractions since your body is readying itself for labour. If you feel like there is a more distinct pattern in the contraction, that might be the time of labour.
  • Edema – Edema refers to the swelling of both feet and ankle. Since your body is carrying an immense amount of liquid, the extra weight is causing you to be at your most immobile state.
  • Colostrum – Leaky breasts are very evident on week 42. Your breasts might begin leaking colostrum, a yellow-coloured fluid which your body releases as a precursor to breast milk.
  • Insomnia – You might be feeling a little bit of anxiety since you are past your due date. It usually results in insomnia or trouble in sleeping.

How Is My Life Changing

You might be probably sick of everyone asking you whether you have had your baby yet. It might give you stress and a pinch of anxiety which might sometimes alter your everyday behaviour. Here’s a thought you can focus on as you wait: At around this time next week, you’ll be holding and cuddling with your newborn.

Week 42 Mommy Checklist

Before your baby comes out into the world, make sure to accomplish these three things on the list:

  • Have more long walks.
  • Visit your OB to discuss the risks that come along with being 42 weeks pregnant.
  • Finalise your “The baby’s here!” list.

Tips For The Partners

Since they are overdue, there are times that they will feel anxiety and fear. Hence, giving them full emotional support and ensuring they are relaxed and at peace are essential. If you sense that your partner is stressing out, offer them a massage or play relaxing music for them to keep their emotions in check.

Congratulations for making it through the nine difficult months of pregnancy! There’s no greater gift than having a child to love. Blessings to your newborn!



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