Εβδομάδα εγκυμοσύνης 40

Your body is in full preparation mode this week; your uterus now reaches just below your rib cage, and your abdominal wall is at its maximum stretch. As your baby’s head settles deep into your pelvis, the pressure on your diaphragm eases slightly, but it creates significant pressure on your bladder. This brings a sense of lightening and makes breathing easier, though it will certainly increase your trips to the bathroom. Additionally, the hormone relaxin, which loosens your pelvic joints and ligaments, is at its peak; this might cause a separating sensation in your hips or a slight waddle when you walk. One of the clearest signs that labor is approaching, the bloody show, may happen this week. This is a sign that labor could begin within a few hours or a few days. Your cervix is now starting to soften, shorten, and thin out; your doctor will refer to these changes as dilation and effacement during your check-up. Braxton Hicks contractions may feel more intense now, sometimes as sharp as period cramps; however, until they become regular like true labor pains, they are considered your body’s final practice rounds. You may notice increased swelling in your hands and feet due to water retention, so keeping your feet elevated while resting is key to your comfort.