Pregnancy Guide for Couples: Week 38
Two weeks left! Do you know if you’re dilated or effaced yet? We’ll talk about that below. We’ll also discuss baby’s eyes and how they change color over time!
What’s Going on with Baby
At Week 38, your baby is the size of a bowling pin!
When your baby has fully developed their lungs, this is a sign that labor is about to begin. By week 38, baby’s lungs are typically fully developed! Another cool thing that is going on with your little one involves their eye color. Right now, baby’s eyes are blue, gray, or brown. But their eye color or shade could change once light is exposed. Some interesting facts about babies’ eye colors include:
Cells in the iris begin to produce melanin, which results in baby’s eventual eye color
Genetics influences eye color
Parents may notice their baby’s eye color changing most noticeably during the first 6-9 months of life
Brown eyes are the most common eye color worldwide
Wonder what eye color your baby will have?
What’s Going on with Mom
With only two weeks left until your due date, it’s no surprise if you’re dealing with shortness of breath and swelling. The pressure of your growing baby on your body does this to expecting mothers. You may also be starting to dilate or efface. Not sure what I’m talking about? Here’s some more information:
Cervical dilation. Dilation refers to the opening or widening of the cervix. As labor approaches, the cervix gradually dilates to allow baby to pass through the birth canal. Dilation is measured in centimeters and progresses from 0 cm to 10 cm. When Mom is at 10 cm, that means baby can pass through the birth canal for delivery.
Cervical effacement. Effacement refers to the thinning or shortening of the cervix. As labor nears, the cervix thins (or effaces) to prepare for birth. This is measured by percentages between 0% (not effaced) and 100% (fully effaced).
Your doctor will likely update you on how dilated and effaced you are leading up to labor and possibly until the baby is born.
What’s going on with Partner
If you haven’t finished your work projects, now is the time to do so! You don’t want to have any lingering work to finish up before settling into your paternity leave. Another thing to consider is what you would do if Mom went into early labor at home. Here are some tips:
Stay calm!
Use a timer or smartphone app to monitor contractions and the time between them
Have Mom stay hydrated and rest as much as possible between contractions
Encourage a warm bath or shower
Help Mom regulate her breathing
Contact the healthcare provider if you’re unsure if it’s time to go to the hospital (or your Midwife to see if they should head over to the house)
You got this, Dad!
RESOURCE OF THE WEEK
Early labor can be such an exciting and sweet time for you and your partner. Read the blog to learn our top tips (and things to do) during early labor.
