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The Eighth Month
About You: You may be experiencing a variety of symptoms associated with your pregnancy, which could include: • regular and strong fetal movements • achiness in your lower abdomen or back (caused by ligaments stretching to support your uterus) • heartburn, indigestion, flatulence, bloating, constipation, leg cramps • increasing and heavy whitish vaginal discharge (leukorrhea) • mild swelling of your ankles and feet, occasionally of your hands and face • changes in your skin pigmentation of your face and/or abdomen • varicose veins in your legs; hemorrhoids • increasing shortness of breath (uterus is growing upwards into lung area) • itchy abdomen and protruding bellybutton • difficulty sleeping or getting comfortable • more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions which are usually painless (your uterus hardens for a moment, then returns to normal) • increasing clumsiness • colostrum from enlarged breasts • apprehension about motherhood, the baby's health, and labour and delivery • excitement at the realization that your baby will soon be born About Baby: Your baby is growing every day and now has the following characteristics: • is about 18 inches long • weighs approximately 5 pounds • brain grows at increased rate • fetus can see and hear What to do this month: • Keep your Doula up-to-date on your progress • Read The Year After Childbirth, by Sheila Kitzinger
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