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41 weeks pregnant

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41 weeks pregnant

Your Child may still be having a good time in your womb, and that is no problem at all. Although labor can start anytime, you can help out by going for long walks. 

Your Child’s development
The little one has now completely developed and is only adding more weight. By definition, Your Child is now considered a “late-term” baby. 

Tests: To check on how Your Child is doing, your doctor may recommend running some tests, like electronic fetal monitoring, non-stress test, or a biophysical profile. These tests may be done weekly or twice weekly.

The genitals: Because of the hormones in your body, the baby’s genitals may look swollen at delivery, but they’ll soon come down to their normal size.

Your development
Just wait for labor to start naturally if there’s no risk to your health and that of Your Child.

Membrane sweep: If you’ve had a baby before, you’ll be offered a membrane sweep at your 41-week appointment. A membrane sweep involves having a vaginal (internal) examination where the doctor uses his fingers to stimulate the cervix (neck of your womb) so that it will produce hormones that may trigger natural labor. You do not have to have this – you can discuss it with your midwife.

Meanwhile, you may still have some third-trimester symptoms, such as fatigue, swelling, and constipation. You can go for a walk to help ease the symptoms since walking helps your blood to flow. In fact, a long walk and staying active can nudge Your Child and make the little one want to come out.   

What you can do now
Go to see your doctor or midwife at least once a week if Your Child doesn’t come within this week. Babies delivered after week 41 can be much bigger, making a natural delivery more difficult. It is, therefore, likely that your doctor will discuss the possibility of inducing labor if Your Child doesn’t come out before the end of the week.

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