Development Calendar

Your Pregnancy Month 9

What's Your Baby Up to This Month?

MONTH 9: 35 weeks gestational age - delivery

Your Pregnancy Month 9: 35 weeks gestational age - delivery

At 37 weeks, he is considered full-term
His body and brain may be ready for life on the outside
He will move into fetal position and drop down into your pelvis
He may be around 7 pounds, and between 18 and 21 inches long

Lightening: On Deck for Birth

At this point in the pregnancy, your baby will move into fetal position with his head down and his arms and legs pulled against his chest. The bones of his head are soft and flexible now, to make it easier for him to move through the birth canal.

As he drops into your pelvis and presses against the cervix, you may feel some pressure in your lower abdomen. This dropping is known as lightening, a sign that things are headed in the right direction.

For you, lightening may make breathing and eating a little easier. On the other hand, you may find walking and sitting trickier now. Either way, it won't last long.

Due Dates: Pencil Me In, Mom

Even if you've got the grandparents flying in and the celebration party already planned, your little guest of honor may still stand you up. Or arrive early. Due dates are only estimates, and most babies aren't that punctual.

No one knows exactly what triggers labor. Your baby is considered full-term by 37 weeks. And even if he does make you wait, you've got a lifetime of bonding to make up for lost time.

Exciting as it is, you'll want to keep it on the downlow this month. Conserve your strength for the birth. Start putting together a few things to make your hospital stay more comfortable, or make some healthy dinners to put in the freezer. And now is the perfect time to read up on feeding options for your baby.