Your body

What to expect
You may feel that you are about to give birth any minute but it would take a few more weeks.
Walking could feel more difficult and you may need to go to the bathroom more frequently.
You may feel less breathless if your baby has moved downwards to ‘engage’. Also, symptoms such as heartburn and acidity could disappear. Don’t be surprised if all your pregnancy
symptoms vanish overnight. It can happen!
Your baby

What to expect
Baby is starting to ‘engage’, that is, moving head down in your pelvis. Baby is almost at birth length. He/She is shifting around and that makes the shape of your bump change. You may be able to make out your baby’s body part like a little hand or feet from outside!
If baby is a boy, his testicles will descend into its sac this week.
Taking care

Tips
- Attend antenatal appointments.
- Be aware that you could have dry eyes and your vision may seem to have changed or be blurred. These are only temporary and will pass off after birth.
- Keep the vaginal area dry and clean as you are likely to have increased vaginal discharge which is harmless. Keeping clean and dry will prevent bacterial infections.
- Stop drinking water for at least an hour or two before you go to bed to prevent frequent trips to the bathroom.
- Eat healthily, be kind to yourself and rest when you can.
- Go for gentle walks. This will help you relax and sleep better.
Ask your doctor
Questions you may have
Are there things I can do myself to reduce pain during labour?
“You're likely to feel more relaxed in labour and better placed to cope with the pain if you learn and know more about labour. This makes you feel more in control and less frightened. Learn how to relax, stay calm and take deep breaths. There are yoga breathing exercises which can help. Your position can make a difference – try kneeling, walking around or rocking back and forth.”
My friend tells me there are things I can include in my diet like coconut water which will make my baby light skinned. Is that true?
“Having a light skinned baby based on what you eat or do when you are pregnant is an old wives tale, a myth. Skin colouring or tone is down to genes. Type of food does not make any difference. Just eat healthy and take your prenatal vitamins. Coconut water can help with hydration!”