As you approach the finish line of your pregnancy journey with just two weeks remaining, it’s a great time to relax and savor these final moments.
Changes in Your Body
During this stage, you might notice some swelling in your feet, which is quite common as you near the end of your pregnancy. However, if you experience significant swelling in your hands or face, or sudden and severe swelling in your feet or ankles, it’s crucial to reach out to your healthcare provider. These symptoms could indicate a condition known as pregnancy-induced hypertension, also referred to as preeclampsia or toxemia.
Your Baby’s Size
In the last few weeks of pregnancy, baby sizes can vary, but typically, your little one is likely between 17 and 20 inches long and weighs around 6 to 7.5 pounds.
What’s Happening with Your Baby
Your baby continues to grow, and most of their organs are now mature and functioning, with the brain and lungs still developing. You might start to imagine what your baby looks like, perhaps hoping they inherit Aunt Julie’s red hair or their dad’s green eyes. While you may not be able to determine the exact eye color immediately, brown eyes usually stay brown, and if they are gray or blue, they could change to green, hazel, or brown as they grow.
Planning for This Week
Make sure to discuss important topics with your doctor if you haven’t already, including:
- Who to contact when you think you are in labor and when to make the call
- Home premature labor completion
- Any medical issues such as pregnancy-induced hypertension, gestational diabetes, anemia, intrauterine growth restriction, or breech position.
Tips for a Better Pregnancy Experience
If your healthcare provider suspects your baby is in a breech position, they may request an ultrasound to confirm. This will give you a last glimpse of your baby before they arrive. Many women may have to undergo non-stress tests in the final weeks, which can be performed at your doctor’s office or a hospital. During this test, you’ll lie down while a fetal monitor is placed on your abdomen. You’ll press a button each time you feel your baby move, and the monitor will track your baby’s heart rate. Though these tests can feel overwhelming, they also offer a wonderful opportunity for bonding, as many mothers cherish hearing their baby’s heartbeat.
Advice for Partners
Have you packed your hospital bag yet? If not, it’s a good time to start, as your baby could arrive any day now. Many parents choose to buy a special gift for their child, like a toy or a book, which can be packed in the hospital bag. Don’t forget to consider getting a thoughtful gift for your partner too. It’s a wonderful way to show your appreciation and love during this exciting time. These gifts don’t have to be extravagant; a simple gesture can mean a lot.
As you navigate these final weeks, remember that you’re not alone—resources like Vegas Pregnancy for sperm donor matching, or Make A Mom for at-home insemination options can be incredibly helpful. You can also check out this guide on how at-home insemination works. For nutritious meal ideas for toddlers and kids, don’t forget to explore this blog post. For more insights on pregnancy and home insemination, Healthline offers excellent resources. Check out Modern Family Blog for more tips on family planning.
In summary, as you near the end of your pregnancy, focus on taking care of yourself and preparing for the arrival of your little one. Enjoy this special time!