At week 33 of gestation, the foetus weighs roughly 1.8 to 2 kilograms and measures about 43 to 46 centimetres. The baby’s brain, lungs, and other internal organs mature rapidly and fat layers keep accumulating in the foetus's body to give a plump look after birth. Baby dropping is just one of the indicators to prepare for the birth, alongside other symptoms like Braxton Hicks contractions, cervical effacement, and hormonal fluctuations.
What is Lightning in Pregnancy?
Pregnancy lightning means when the baby's head, which used to rest near the mother's rib cage, starts to gradually shift downward. When baby dropping begins, the baby’s head enters the maternal pelvis and settles into it. This means the uterus pressing against the diaphragm, causing breathlessness, can relax, and you will feel lighter as breathing becomes effortless.The lower uterus stretches to support the baby and puts pressure on the pelvic bladder, which may result in pelvic discomfort and frequent urination. Meanwhile, the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments relax due to increased relaxation and progesterone levels. Most of the first-time mothers experience pregnancy lightning a few weeks before labour, while second-time mothers experience it just before the delivery.
First-time mothers may find it unsettling, but it is just a process to ensure a seamless delivery. The baby's head is the largest and hardest part of the body. The centre of gravity and the uterine contractions help the baby descend to settle into the pelvis via the pelvis inlet.
When Does the Baby Drop?
Pregnancy lightning varies for different individuals depending on several factors, including the baby’s size, position, the mother’s pelvic anatomy, muscle tone, and past pregnancy records. For many mothers, baby dropping may happen between weeks 33 to 36 of gestation.Not all mothers experience lightning at the same time. For first-time mothers, lightning may start around week 33. Because of the tightness in the abdominal and uterine muscles, the baby needs more time to adjust to the pelvic pressure.
But for women who have had previous pregnancies, lightning may occur later. Later may even mean not until labour begins, because their abdominal muscles and ligaments have already been stretched and adapted during the previous gestation, allowing the baby to float at a higher station in the uterus.
Lightning and Foetal Station
Foetal station is used to define how far the baby’s head has plunged into the mother's pelvis. Measuring foetal statin helps understand the baby’s current position. Foetal stations range from -5 to +5. Here’s how the foetal station is gauged to determine the baby’s position:| Foetal Station | What This means |
| -5 to -2 | This station is called floating, where the head is above the pelvis region |
| -2 to 0 station | The head is engaged with the pelvis at the level of the ischial spines |
| +1 to +5 | The head is dropping down and preparing for labour |
Signs the Baby has Dropped
Not all mothers experience the same symptoms. Lightning often arrives at different speeds and at different times depending on pelvic anatomy, baby position and pregnancy history. However, there are a few common sensations and signs that mothers feel as the baby begins to drop:- Sensation of the baby moving down from the upper belly as if pressure is released.
- Breathing feels calm and easy as the tension on the diaphragm lessens.
- Less heartburn and indigestion as the belly has enough room to avoid digestive issues.
- Heaviness and pressure on the pelvis as the baby enters through the pelvic inlet and settles in the pelvis.
- Losing balance and changes in posture as the centre of gravity changes with the new weight distribution.
- Frequent urination occurs as the baby is resting directly on your bladder.
Finding Comfort in the Chaos - Tips to Cope After the Baby Drops
Pregnancy makes you dwell in the centre of happiness and discomfort. After the baby drops, you will feel physically relaxed and also challenged. As your third trimester rolls, get ready to balance both sides. Here are a few tips you can use to find comfort after the baby drops:- Soft and skin-friendly fabric is your best friend. Avoid wearing tight and non-breathable materials. Opt for kaftans and loose dresses that let you breathe.
- It’s time to purchase maternity support belts. After the baby drops, your body will find it hard with the new shift in weight. A maternity belt helps relieve pressure and distribute the weight.
- Mind your sleeping position. Sleep on the left side and always use a cushion under your belly and in between your legs for support.
- Warm compression and a warm bath on the back and thighs help soothe soreness.
- Practise kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles and reduce the risk of urine leakage
- Gentle stretching, prenatal massage and light activity help in de-stressing the muscles and improve circulation.
Understanding lightning and relaxing your muscles helps you deal with the discomfort it can cause during pregnancy. Tilting your pelvis, using a birthing ball, squatting, and pelvic floor exercises will help soothe the pain and support your postpartum recovery as well.
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FAQs on When Will the Baby Drop? Signs That Labour Is Nearing
- How long after the baby drops does labour start?
After the baby drops and settles into the pelvis, labour may come anytime. It depends on the pregnancy history of the mother. Usually, it takes from a few hours to weeks. - How to open the pelvis for the baby to drop?
While it's not manually possible for the baby to drop, you can support it by doing light walking, squats, and kegel exercises.