Week 36: 4 weeks to go!

Your baby's arrival is getting closer!

Your baby's progress:

• Your baby has expanded to a thousand times its original size!
• He or she measures 45 to 50 centimetres.
• Fat is dimpling on the elbows and knees.
• Creases form in the neck and wrists.
• Fingernails have formed.
• The gums are very rigid.
• The kidneys are fully developed.
• The kiver can process some waste products.

Your progress:

• You will probably have to run to the loo more often because of the increased pressure on your bladder.
• You may notice a strange feeling in your vagina whenever the baby's head moves against the pelvic floor.

What to do:

• If you have other children, have you made adequate arrangements for the time you will be in hospital?
• It's time to slow down. Very few babies arrive on their due date. Anywhere from 38 to 42 weeks is considered normal.

Good to know:

• Avoid doing chores that could harm your baby. This includes lifting heavy objects, using harsh chemicals, and standing on ladders.