Having undergone all sorts of physiological, mental, emotional, and hormonal changes, the mother's body is now shifting from nurturing to releasing the baby. Many mothers mistake the last few weeks’ cramps and tightening for labour. However, these are signs that your body is actively preparing for the big day.
Foetal Growth at Week 37
The baby is fully developed, weighing around 3 kgs, and measuring roughly 45 centimetres. Even though 37 weeks is considered full term, some clinicians prefer labour to begin by 39 weeks. It's mainly because the baby's lungs and brain are still fine-tuning and adding those final touches. Some of the major foetal milestones at week 37 are:- Though lungs are still maturing, babies can still breathe independently as alveoli mature and surfactant production increases.
- The brain weighs almost 400 grams. The baby consistently switches between REM and non-REM sleep every 20-40 minutes.
- Meconium, the first stool, is stored in the intestine.
- The liver stores glycogen and iron to maintain the blood sugar level after birth.
- About 250 mg of calcium is transferred from the placenta daily during these last months.
- Bones are still pliable to allow moulding during delivery.
- Antibodies (immunoglobulin) are transferred from the mother’s body to the baby to give passive immunity for the first few months.
- The adrenal gland secretes a high amount of cortisol, which promotes surfactant production.
- The baby is in a head-down position for a smooth delivery.
- Foetus practices grasping fingers, sucking, swallowing, and rehearsing for the first breath.
Maternal Body Changes at Week 37
The mother's body continues to show signs and prepare for the birth. Every system transitions from nurturing and growing into birthing the baby. Here are some maternal changes you might notice this week:- You might feel the sudden burst of energy and desire to organise and tidy up the whole house for the baby’s arrival. This instinctive behaviour is called nesting.
- A bittersweet emotional rollercoaster often occurs, triggering anticipation, anxiety, excitement, impatience, and fear.
- The cervix shortens and softens as a result of uterine pressure.
- Baby drops and settles into the pelvic area, which eases the breathlessness and increases pelvic pressure.
- Pregnancy lightning may lead to frequent urination.
- Increased blood volume may reduce cardiac output and cause swelling in the lower extremities.
- Cramps, abdominal tightening, and Braxton-Hicks contractions are also common during this time.
Pre-Labour
Pre-labour happens before actual labour. Pre-labour, also called the “prodromal phase,” can start 2 or 3 weeks before actual labour. Pre-labour prepares the cervix, uterus, and pelvis for the birth ahead. Below are some of the pre-labour signs to look for:- Pregnancy lightning: Baby dropping provides instant relief from breathlessness, but can cause pelvic pressure. This happens when the baby drops and settles into the mother's pelvic area. First-time mothers experience this before 4 to 5 weeks of labour, while second-time mothers may experience it later.
- Vaginal Discharge: As your cervical canal softens and dilates, the cervix produces a thick mucus plug to protect the uterus, which can lead to increased vaginal discharge.
- Braxton Hicks Contractions: Practice labour is the most common during these weeks. A mild tightening in the abdomen, which fades within a few seconds.
- Nesting: The urge to clean baby essentials, arrange the nursery, and turn your home into baby-ready territory. This may cause restlessness and exhaustion due to the work.
- Mild cramps: Mild backache, tightening, and menstrual-like cramps result from stretching of the pelvic ligaments and hormonal changes. These are frequent and occur for a short period of time.
What Counts as a True Labour
Actual labour happens when uterine contractions become deliberate and continuous, resulting in cervical dilatation. Hormones play a major role during childbirth.- Oxytocin increases the contraction frequency.
- Prostaglandins soften the cervix.
- Endorphins act as pain-relievers and create a dream-like state
Key Indicators of True Labour
- Increasing contractions: These contractions are deliberate and intense over time. They come at regular intervals and last for more than 60 seconds.
- Pain emanating from the back: True labour pain starts in the lower back and slowly spreads to the front. This pain doesn't go away after rest or hydration. They are intense and continue till birth.
- Water breaking: The gush or trickle of amniotic fluid, which looks clear or slightly pink. Green or yellow fluid should be reported to the doctor immediately.
- Bloody show: As the cervix dilates, to protect the uterus during labour, you might notice blood-stained vaginal discharge.
Practical Ways to Manage Early Labour Signs at Home
First-time mothers may mistake early labour signs as actual labour. This may start way too early, before the due date, or a few hours before the time. However, learning a few strategies will help you cope with the stress and give you some room to think clearly.- Reduce tension by focusing on your breath. Practice controlled breathing techniques.
- Indulge in a light snack or infused water to maintain energy and stamina.
- Warmth both relaxes the muscles and soothes these mild contractions.
- Gentle walking and sitting on a birth ball help the baby descend.
- Prioritise rest to save energy for the actual labour.
Early labour signs don't look the same for everyone. It may come at different times and at various frequencies. Some may experience intense early labour signs, while some may feel nothing at all. During this time, listen to your body and work on relaxing every nerve and muscle. Rest and sleep are vital for the intense days ahead.
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FAQs on Full Term Approaches: What Early Labour Signs To Look Out For
- How do I know labour is near at 37 weeks?
Signs including consistent back ache, intense belly tightening, baby dropping, and increased bloody vaginal discharge may mean your labour is near at 37 weeks. - What are the signs you should stop working while pregnant?
Avoid working hard or engaging in intense activity if pregnancy symptoms turn into intense pain or discomfort. Frequent contractions, water breaking, vaginal discharge, and intense back and abdominal pain may indicate early labour signs. And suggest that you should stop working.