Are you dreaming of giving birth to a beautiful bundle of joy?
Are you a husband who wants to hold your child in your arms, watch them grow and proudly call them your son or daughter?
They say a family is never quite complete without children. Once a married couple settles down, more often than not they dream of giving birth to a child of their own to share their love for each other and dream anew!
There are many things you should get to know about becoming parents. We’re sharing things you should be aware of that happen inside the womb of a pregnant mum-to-be, as well as things you should do and avoid doing so that you can give birth to a beautiful and healthy child. Remember the pregnancy journey should be walked together and cherished by both parents.
The probability of conceiving (without contraception) is 10% within the first month, 30% within three months, and 85% for a year. You can potentially become pregnant even in the remaining 15% (if the menstrual cycle is regular) without any treatment. In order for a mother to conceive, her hormonal systems must function properly. It also helps if there is awareness of the approximate fertility period, which we have addressed in other articles.
If your menstruation cycle is still delayed after about a week from when you’re expecting it, you can test yourself from home using a pregnancy test. Nowadays there are highly sensitive test kits which can correctly identify pregnancy even after 2 days of conceiving. So it is often not necessary to go to the laboratory for this confirmation.
If the above results fail, see a gynecologist.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician & Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital
Are you dreaming of giving birth to a beautiful bundle of joy?
Are you a husband who wants to hold your child in your arms, watch them grow and proudly call them your son or daughter?
They say a family is never quite complete without children. Once a married couple settles down, more often than not they dream of giving birth to a child of their own to share their love for each other and dream anew!
There are many things you should get to know about becoming parents. We’re sharing things you should be aware of that happen inside the womb of a pregnant mum-to-be, as well as things you should do and avoid doing so that you can give birth to a beautiful and healthy child. Remember the pregnancy journey should be walked together and cherished by both parents.
The probability of conceiving (without contraception) is 10% within the first month, 30% within three months, and 85% for a year. You can potentially become pregnant even in the remaining 15% (if the menstrual cycle is regular) without any treatment. In order for a mother to conceive, her hormonal systems must function properly. It also helps if there is awareness of the approximate fertility period, which we have addressed in other articles.
If your menstruation cycle is still delayed after about a week from when you’re expecting it, you can test yourself from home using a pregnancy test. Nowadays there are highly sensitive test kits which can correctly identify pregnancy even after 2 days of conceiving. So it is often not necessary to go to the laboratory for this confirmation.
If the above results fail, see a gynecologist.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician & Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital
Your little one is now inside your womb and is really small, the size of a mustard seed, at the fourth week of conception. Is this a little girl with mummy’s face? Or could it be a boy just like the father? You might be curious to find out, but there’s quite a long time to go before that’s possible, so be patient mum and dad! It’s okay to be excited and let your imagination and dreams fill you as you wait lovingly and impatiently for the day your baby finally arrives!
This coming week will see the start of the tiny embryo in the womb growing, which means your little one’s body organs are starting to develop. The embryo is only about two millimeters long at this stage, and the placenta is beginning to form too. All the nutrients and oxygen needed for the growth of the embryo will be supplied through the placenta. But right now, this is just beginning to grow, so the placenta’s role is carried out by the fluids inside the water bag. Ultrasound scans at this stage will not be able to show you any details about the embryo but might show a small circular shape.
As soon as your little one arrived inside your womb, it triggered a host of hormonal changes within, which makes life uncomfortable for mum. The good news is that most expectant mothers become accustomed to this discomfort after a while. The little one’s father has an important role to play too! Dad, you’re the only one who can help mum get through this initial period of discomfort, so keep her spirits high.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
By now our little one is as big as a sesame seed. The miracle of childbirth is truly mind-blowing. The intricacies and details that go on inside a mother’s womb is truly fascinating. Each passing week will bring you closer to the day you finally hold that precious one in your hand.
Now the baby inside the womb is growing even faster. By now the embryo has achieved a shape of a tadpole and just two millimeters in length.
The heart of this little embryo is now functioning. The blood circulatory system has commenced functioning too. The formation and development of the salivary glands, sweat glands, mammary glands, thyroid glands, and lungs, the urinary tract, the intestine, the liver, the pancreas, teeth and nails are now underway! Your little one is very busy!
Still, there will be no sign or shape in your stomach to show your pregnant. An ultrasound scan can now detect a very small embryo.
The mother is experiencing hormonal changes in her body due to pregnancy. This week will be more of the same feelings of discomfort experienced the last week. This will remain a bit longer until your body gets used to these changes. Of course a few lucky mums do not face any such difficulties.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Mum, you might be impatiently waiting for your baby bump to become visible. But your little one is still the size of a Lentil. So small! That means there are a few more weeks to pass before you get to see the bump! Is dad excited too?
Don’t be deceived. Even though you cannot see from outside, your baby is growing up really fast.
Now your embryo is C-shaped and about 5 millimeters in length. This lentil sized embryo is being fed and oxygenated by the placenta, as well as the developing umbilical cord.
Your baby’s adorable face is now taking shape with the formation of cheeks and jaws. Right now, there are black spots in the face, where their eyes and nasal spots will be. Formation of vital organs such as the lungs, kidneys and liver have also begun. The tiny baby hands and feet are starting to stick out.
The muscles of the brain are developing too. The heart rate of the embryo is estimated to be 90 to 160 times per minute. That is twice your heart rate.
You will continue experiencing most of the discomforts you experienced last week.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Mum, your impatience is paying off. Your baby has doubled in size since last week. As big as a green gram!
The embryo is now 10 millimeters from head to toe (double the size of last week). Now the little one’s mouth is starting to develop in the embryo. Amazingly the tooth buds are beginning to form as well.
The eyes and nose are becoming more visible. Their shoulders, arms, and legs will keep on growing. Your baby's little fingers and toes are starting to show a little too! All the other organs that started forming earlier will keep on growing.
Bone marrow which is essential for producing blood cells in your baby’s embryo is almost completely formed!
This week too, you will face the same difficulties mentioned in previous weeks articles. However, there might be signs of these conditions gradually reducing in the coming weeks. However, you may experience new challenges.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Mom, you might still be feeling uncomfortable. But let your dreams of a beautiful future and the support of your loved one’s help you get through this time. Don’t think twice about reaching out for help and support from those who love you and those you trust.
Your baby continues to grow very fast. There are massive changes taking place inside your womb. The embryo now has a human appearance. The distance between head to toe of the embryo is about 16 millimeters.
Your baby's shoulders, elbows and knees have continued growing. And the limbs have fingers and toes. The fetus might have subtle movements, but these movements cannot yet be felt by mum. Your baby’s brain functions have also started.
Meanwhile, in your baby’s heart, the separations of the chambers of the heart have begun. The heartbeat is around 150 times per minute. It's beating for you mummy and daddy.
Your baby’s beautiful face is also getting shaped. In the eight week your baby’s eyelids have just formed. As have the nasal passages below the nostrils. Those baby lips are getting formed ready to give you lots and lots of kisses. The tongue now has taste buds. Teeth have been stored under the gum. All of this starts during this week.
Hopefully, for most mums, by now early morning vomiting, need to urinate frequently and sleeplessness at night would have somewhat reduced or passed away. Yes, there are some mothers who will continue experiencing these conditions right until the end of the pregnancy period. While these symptoms have reduced for most moms, this might be a period where you encounter new challenges as your baby grows and your body continues to prepare for childbirth.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Hold a Nelli fruit in your hand - this is how tiny your baby in your tummy is! So much is happening inside you to prepare the little one for the big day when they finally come out. Until then, we must be patient!
By now, the basic development of the embryo is almost complete. It is about 23 mm in length (from head to toe). The placenta is now fully developed for hormone production.
The embryo's eyes are fully formed and they are covered with eyelids. The ears, mouth, nose, and nasal cavities are clearly visible. The heart is now separated into chambers (Left and Right Atria & Ventricles) and the vessels are beginning to take shape.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Pregnancy is one of the most precious moments in the life of a woman. Society and those around treat a pregnant mother with love, care and respect. Your friends and family are so happy for you. You must be looking forward to becoming a mummy for your little one!
Your baby is about 30 mm from head to toe. Most of the embryo’s development is complete. Now your embryo will start developing embryonic tissues and organs.
The size of your baby’s head is almost half of the entire length of the embryo. Your precious one’s facial features can now be seen. The fingers and toes of the hands are fully functional. They can even bend their hands and legs. Soon they will start stretching their legs slowly and surely. Interestingly, the wrists of their hands are long enough to touch their face!
Your baby is starting to grow hair - it’s not black though!
The nervous and digestive systems have started to develop. The baby’s head provides enough space now for brain development. You can also see the spinal cord through the translucent skin and they now have a fully functional heart. Bones and cartilage are also being formed. That’s a lot of activity, right? But wait, there’s more going on! Your baby’s wrists, ankles and knees are also in the development stage. If it’s a baby girl, the ovaries are starting to take shape. If it’s a boy their testicles are starting to produce testosterone, a male hormone.
For most mums, the early discomforts they experienced would have ceased by now. For some these may continue for longer.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Mum, you might not feel it, but your little one inside you is very active inside. In a short time, you will start to feel it too. That’s not all, they can now hear what’s happening outside.
The embryo is now around 45 mm long. It's little heart is beating at around 120 to 160 beats a minute. The little baby face now is well-formed including the outer ear. Your baby’s skin is now covered with ‘hair bulbs’. Their sensory abilities are kicking into gear as well. Their tender soft baby skin is starting to gain thickness. Meanwhile, your baby is also starting to hiccup. Why is that you ask, concerned? Nothing to worry mum, it’s because their great diaphragm is starting to develop. Also, one of the veins connected to the naval now transports nutrition and oxygen needed for the baby, while blood is returned through two arteries. These are amazing developments.
Take care of your oral health. The oral health of a mother can also affect the oral health of the newborn baby. So, it’s time to visit your dentist. Here’s some tips for taking care of your oral health:
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Congratulations mum! You are completing 1/3rd of your journey towards motherhood! It must’ve been tough adjusting to everything brought about by hormonal changes. Has anyone told you that you glow? Yes, the hormonal changes inside of you, together with the joy and anticipation that’s building up is resulting in a beautiful glow. While the journey ahead has its passing challenges, the reward at the end will be worth a lifetime!
Your little one is about 54 mm from head to toe and looking more and more like a human baby. Their mouth is beginning to form so they will be ready to suck milk as soon as they’re born. They can close their eyes as well as look all around and their ears are now in the right position. They can open and shut their fingers as well as curl up their toes. By now the intestines too have fully developed and begun to move into the abdominal cavity. Nerve cells are rapidly multiplying, and the kidneys have started processing urine.
Now the early discomforts you felt by and large would have passed away as your body gets used to hormonal changes. However, there are some mums who will still experience discomfort.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
You are now officially entering the second trimester of your pregnancy. Generally, doctors advise pregnant mums not to share the news with a larger audience during the first trimester as there is a higher risk of miscarriage during the first trimester. Should this happen it creates unwanted stress on a mum having to share the sad news. As you enter the second trimester, you can now spread the good news with your friends and family.
Did you know that your little one is already busy sucking their thumb inside your womb by now? Their little hands venture to touch the environment around them, but you will still not feel anything. With a well-rounded structure formed your baby is about 70 millimeters in height. Their head right now is four times the size of their entire body! The little one is practicing drinking by opening their mouth to drink the fluids in the placenta and also to urinate. The baby's pancreas and gallbladder have also been formed.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
As your hips and stomach expand, this is the right time to consider a wardrobe change. Shifting to more comfortable clothes will make life much easier, so now is the time to go shopping. Buy some comfortable clothes that won't feel tight, and don’t forget that your little one will be listening in.
Your little one has the ability to express emotions in their face, as their facial muscles are now formed. That’s not all, they can nod too! Their tiny brains have started to function, and their fingers can now grab things.
Your rapidly growing baby now weighs about 43 g and is about 87 mm in length from head to toe.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Your little baby is growing smarter! Unknown to you, he or she is up to a lot of mischief inside your tummy. It won’t be too long before you start feeling them.
By now your little one is 101 mm in length from head to toe. Their skin is very soft and transparent. They can also move their hands and feet quite well. Now the placenta controls the water levels as well as purifies it to maintain the right balance for the embryo. You might have noticed typically doctors do not emphasize much on the length of the embryo but focus on the circumference of the head, abdomen and bone length of the fetus.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Has everyone started to comment on your looks mum? One reason for this is your skin, which is now bright. For once ‘hormonal changes’ have done you a favour! Your skin looks radiant all the time, which is called the pregnancy glow. Truly a beautiful sight!
Your little one’s head is roughly 116 mm in length. There are many changes that start this week in their internal and external body, which will continue over the next few weeks. We will have all the updates for you mum! Their eyebrows have started to form and in the next few weeks, the little one will double in size and weight. As we mentioned earlier, during pregnancy, growth is measured by the circumference of the head, the abdomen, and the crown-rump length of the embryo.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Is dad talking to the little one? He should! Is he so excited that he forgets to talk to you! Give dad the inside scoop of what his little on has been up to during the day?
Now your little one is about 13 cm from head to toe. What’s more, their body has started to produce fats it needs. Their outer ear has now moved to the right position. Their skeleton structure which until now was pure cartilage is now transitioning to bones.
The placenta now produces thousands of red cells. Skin is filling up with the needed sweat glands. It is essential that you adopt a healthy diet and a good lifestyle because the nutrition you consume is essential for you and your little one’s wellbeing and development.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
You’ve been reading these updates patiently (or impatiently) wondering when you will finally feel your little one’s movements, right mum? If this is your first pregnancy, you will have to wait just a little while longer.
The little one is about 142 millimeters in height from head to toe. Your baby’s intestines have started to fill up with meconium (stools that are black in colour). If your little mischievous one is a baby girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes have been fully formed and are in their right place.
If yours is a baby boy, their prostate glands and sexual organs are still being formed. So, it is still difficult to confirm your baby’s gender just yet.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Mom and dad are dreaming of a beautiful healthy baby. In the clinics dad finds out that his little baby is absorbing a lot of calcium from mummy. Dad is worried about mum getting weak. Dad won’t allow mum to avoid eating healthy and taking vitamins now!
Your baby embryo continues its rapid growth. That is why it is important for you to have nutritious food. The little one’s head is about 15.3 millimeters in height now. They can even smell, taste, look and even touch. If you could look you would see a protective wax called ‘vernix caseosa’ all over their skin.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Congratulations Mum! You have now completed half term. There’s more to go! But you are much closer than when you started. The remaining time will fly by too!
Your little one now has a great ability to suck. They did practice a lot using their finger! The body is also preparing itself to digest better. Your baby has started to pass stools! Your baby’s intestines are being used to store up stools.
Your baby is approximately 164 millimeters in height (from head to toe). Many functions now are practicing to prepare for life in the external environment after birth.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Your baby loves to play in your womb, hearing your heartbeat bring them comfort! This is truly a beautiful experience only a woman could experience in her life. If you rest your hand on your tummy you will feel the occasional poke. Dad should try talking to the little one too, keeping his hand on mum's tummy. Will the baby respond?
Now your baby doesn’t always remain in the fetal position but loves to stretch themselves. This means we can measure their length more easily through a scan. Your little one is about 265 millimeters from head to toe. The eyebrows and eyelashes are visible. If your little one is a girl, her vagina is now being formed.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Are you struggling to keep a check on your emotions? To top it all off, you have become forgetful too. It might be easy to become depressed but let’s not forget about that precious bundle of joy who’s inside your womb waiting to see mummy. So at times like this, listen to your favorite songs, sing a song to your child, take a break from the monotony, go out with dad.
Now your little one looks like a regular baby. Feeling their movements inside of you can make mom feel better. You can interact with them. Such interactions will lay the building blocks for a loving emotional relationship.
The baby’s height from head to toe is about 278 millimeters. Their lips, eyebrows, eyelashes are well-formed. Even though the eyes have taken shape the black ingots have not yet been fully formed. Under the gum inside the mouth, baby teeth are still being formed. Meanwhile, baby skin now has a coating of smooth hair to protect their soft skin as well as keep them nice and warm. Skin which was at first wrinkled is now smoothening.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Did mom and dad get together and make a list of all items needed for the baby? The closer you get to the due dates, the harder it will be for mum to walk a lot and to go shopping. So, it is best to start preparing by buying all the needed items as early as possible. Is mum good at stitching? Are you planning to stitch your baby’s baby gowns?
By now your little one is about 28.9 centimeters tall and continues to be very active. Their hands and legs move so fast and mummy feels it and smiles. Your little one can hear better than ever before. This is also the time your baby is being prepared to breathe after being born.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
If this is your first childbirth, you will have thousands of questions running inside your head. If this is your second or third childbirth, you may worry about your older children. That is natural being a Mom/ A mother always cares about all her children.
One important thing you need to know at this stage is. The negative emotions in your mind can negatively impact your child. So, take a decision to worry less and face life and its challenges. The love you have for your children will help you navigate all these challenges you are worrying over. Learn to think positively and happily at all times.
Right now, your little one has a small body that is about 30 cm from head to foot. But in the next few weeks, things will change rapidly. By now the baby’s inner ear have fully developed. The cells that are needed for thinking and memorisation has also fully developed inside your little one’s head.
Even though for now baby has transparent skin, this too will change very soon. Little baby hair on their head is white because there is no pigment. That’s not all, inside their body, another vital task is being carried out. The production of white blood cells that are needed to prevent infections has now commenced.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
You are nearing the end of the second trimester of pregnancy. Are you having long conversations with your little one? Yes, your baby loves to hear and respond to your voice. If you pay attention you will feel these reactions. His favourite past time, however, is sucking his fingers.
Your little baby is approximately 346 millimetres long. His body is looking much more complete. The white baby hair has now turned black. The nostrils have opened and the little one is breathing in the amniotic fluid (the fluid in the water bag) just as he would air! As well as sucking their thumbs your baby now has developed a new ability - yawning!
In addition to the pain, tiredness, and soreness that you have experienced in the past few weeks, many pregnant women experience the following conditions too.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Is it a boy or is it a girl? Did you ask your doctor? Or do you want to be surprised at delivery? If you are undecided, there are some advantages to finding out early. Most mums like to adorn their baby girls in pink dresses and baby boys in blue. Not to mention purchase utensils in similar colours too. However, some parents have an easy alternative. They choose colours such as white and light yellow. Mum and Dad this is entirely up to you!
Your little one is about 356 millimetres in height from head to toe. Your baby has now learnt how to join their little hands together and touch their toes.
Similar to the 25th week, your baby’s lungs are practising breathing. They inhale and exhale the Amniotic fluids through the nostrils. This is essential for them to breath once they come out!
Your baby can hear very well, mum. They now recognise different voices. Their eyes are fully formed. However, the pupil is not yet black, since there is no pigment formation. The fat deposits in the body are already in place. Your baby’s nerve system is being developed.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
This is the end of your second trimester. Why not celebrate going on a short vacation? If this is your first pregnancy, this might be the last trip mum and dad can go by themselves (for a long time to come). Once the little one arrives you can’t leave them behind after all!. However, it is important to consult your doctor beforehand.
By now, your little one is about 366 millimetres in height from head to toe. Your baby has got used to patterns of sleeping, waking up, sucking their fingers and also hiccuping.
They will also be urinating a small amount of amniotic fluids they ingested every three hours, With brain functions, increasing so too are the level of activities that are going on inside your womb. Your baby’s lungs and the immune system are busy being developed.
Over the previous articles, we discussed conditions such as back pain, breathing difficulties, cramping, swollen ankles, need to urinate frequently and fatigue. Some of these conditions can persist until the end of pregnancy.
Going forward you need to pay particular attention to the following:
There are some medical treatments in a hospital which require you to fast. So if you are being admitted, avoid eating or drinking anything. This will help you get treatment faster.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Now we are heading into the third trimester. Congratulations, you have completed 2/3rds of a very special journey. Each day that passes brings you even closer to the day you will finally hold your bundle of joy. Life’s most rewarding gift a mum could ever ask for!
So have mum and dad finished packing for the little one? Make sure all items are properly washed and cleaned. If mum is too tired, dad can help? You need to work as a team.
Your little one now weighs about 1 kg all-packed into a body which is around 37.5 cm high (from head to toe). His lungs are now capable of both inhaling and exhaling. Your little one is also getting used to a pattern of sleeping and waking up.
The tiny little brain is making billions of neurons inside. Your baby’s eyesight has improved greatly and they can now see the light coming through mum’s stomach skin and even blink! Fat accumulation in the body is already underway. Your little one is hiccupping several times a day.
Understanding fetal movements (i.e. the usual number of movements for a day) inside your womb is essential because you need to be alert and able to identify any abnormalities (should it occur) to seek medical advice urgently.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Your precious one now has her own set sleeping routine. Does she sleep cozily at night or is she up? This pattern might continue even after they are born! You will need dad to help you a lot especially during the first few days after giving birth. You need to recover!
Your little one will weigh around 1.05 kg and their height from head to foot is about 38.6 cm. The body is becoming proportionately larger than it was before and bones are getting stronger. Those baby eyes are becoming active by the day!
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
How are you doing mum? It is becoming more uncomfortable now. Those around you will not find it easy to understand what you are going through. So reach out for help from those around you. Are you finding yourself to be more irritable? This is the exhaustion and discomforts takings its toll. Give a heads up to those around you and maybe even apologize in advance?
Your baby is growing rapidly and weighs about 1.3 Kg. The height from head to toe is about 39.9 cm. The levels of amniotic fluids inside the womb are now decreasing to accommodate more space needed for your little one. Did we mention your baby is now preparing to come out? Their baby skin is getting covered with a protective coating of fine baby hair. Their body is storing of iron, calcium, phosphorous. Fat deposits are increasing.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
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We can now count the number of weeks with our fingers mum. Yes, your baby is just 10 weeks away! Soon, your baby will be 40 weeks old.
If your little one stays the full term you can expect them to come during the 39th-40th week. Who knows your little one might spring a surprise and come a bit earlier during week 37 - and week 38! It’s always best to be prepared!
Exciting news right mum? We told you all of this will be worth it.
Your little one has reached a height of 41 Cms. Weighs about 1.5 kg. The length of a cucumber. They are now so active in your womb, even turning their heads sideways. Their movements are much more intense. So intense it might even wake you up from a good sleep.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Mum, you must be tired, right? We know. But take courage now your on the final stretch. The finish line is at sight. And the reward is great. Your body is spending a lot of energy to maintain both you and your baby. So you need to make sure you eat well. Find much time as possible to relax and rest. But don’t spend too much time on bed and stay lethargic. These days your focus should be on the finish line!
By this time, your baby will weigh around 1.7 kg. The height from head to foot is about 42.4 cm. This little one is taking up more space in your womb. Over the next few weeks, it will grow faster. Their hair and nails are also growing. If only you could touch their skin is so very soft!
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Your little one doesn’t yet understand what it is to be held in your arms. But you never know when he might come out. Are you worried about this uncertainty? Whatever happens, it is best to be prepared. This means mum and dad needs to be ready. We don’t just mean packing bags. Mum, you have to be mentally prepared too!
Your baby is putting on weight so fast. Now an average baby weighs nearly two kilos. Their average height is close to 44 cm. This little active bundle of joy now is comfortable inside the womb. His bones are stronger and your abdomen must be feeling the effects of his much strong kicks and punches. Are you worried he will become a kickboxer?
Are you afraid of being hospitalised? This might be a new experience for you and this might instil fear. Most mums have this inherent fear. But the joy of giving birth will give you all the necessary strength and courage to face this and overcome. Remember when this is all done you will be leaving the hospital, bringing back a new member to your family!
If you are a mother who has had premature births, twins or more or if you have abnormalities in the uterus/cervix, do not delay to see your doctor at any time.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
The day you hold your little one is now even closer. If you are working, hope you have discussed your maternity leave details with your office. If you can manage, try to go to work till the last possible day. This way you can save those precious maternity leave to spend time with your little one.
Now the little one weighs around 2.2 Kg. And their height is about 46 centimetres. Their nervous system is functioning well. Their tiny baby lungs are all ready to breathe after birth.
You have kept your baby for 34 weeks now. Just a few more weeks to go mum. So if you haven’t done already, find out more about the process of childbirth. Speak to your doctors. This extra knowledge can dispel myths and irrational fears that might pop inside your mind. Also can go a long way in ensuring you have a safe childbirth. After all that has been your dream all along!
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Mummy and daddy are ready to welcome the little one. There are more preparations to do. Mum is acting like she’s forgotten all her discomforts. She and dad are now busy cleaning and tidying up the rooms to welcome the special visitor who will soon call it their own!
All your baby’s organs are now fully formed and functional. Their height is now around 46 centimetres. While they weigh more than 2.3 Kg. That’s not all, your little one is now more active than ever. Their kicks are becoming more intense. It's like the baby’s impatient to come out!
Their fully functional kidneys are all ready to carry out its duties. The longest you will have to wait now is around 5 weeks! But who knows if that day will come earlier. So always stay alert and prepared.
The discomforts you have felt over the past weeks will continue. If you want to find out more about any of the following you can refer our previous articles.
By this week you and your baby have crossed a significant milestone. From now on your baby is ready to come out anytime. When will that be? Your baby’s keeping it a secret Mum!
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
It is natural for a mum to have concerns and fears at this point. Also, there’s nothing wrong with being impatient! But for a moment why not take some time to reflect on this miraculous journey you have embarked on over a period of 36 weeks? If you have any specific concerns about childbirth don’t wait. Talk to your doctors and get your questions answered. Consider this. The opportunity to experience general birth is a privilege some mums will never have. So don’t make a decision based on what you have heard others talk about. Consult your doctor so that you will be fully informed.
Now your little one weighs over two and a half kilos. They will be gaining roughly 30 grams each passing day. Meanwhile, their height is around 47 centimeters.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Your little one’s growth and transformation over the many weeks that passed is spectacular. Now your baby is truly ready to face the real world. Not alone of course, they need the loving care of their mum and dad to guide them through life.
The little babe is nearly three kilos (2. 850 Kg) in weight. Their height is roughly 50 cm. A baby can be born at any time between week 37 and 42. Even though your little one’s body is fully capable of thriving in the outside environment there’s more brain and lung development that is currently going inside. This process requires another 2 weeks to complete! Now you know why his still delaying his grand entrance!
Phase I consists of two stages: The latent Phase and the Active Phase.
Birth pains gradually develop, This will result in a cervical dilation from 0-4 cm. If this is your first pregnancy this stage will take up to 16 to 18 hours (It will take about 8-12 hours if this is your second pregnancy). Hospitalization at this stage is not required (however, hospitalization is urgently needed if the water bag has been damaged and there’s a significant fluid loss/bleeding). Take some prescribed painkillers and also engage in the breathing exercises. Pay careful attention to the pattern of these pain and any unusual fetal movements.
During this stage, you will have a cervical dilation from 4-10 cm. This stage might require approximately 6 - 10 hours or longer. From then on your cervix will dilate by approximately 1cm every passing hour. Hospitals will admit a mum into the labour room only if the cervical dilation has exceeded 4 cm.
It will take approximately 1 hour for your little baby’s head to pop out after the cervical dilation has been completed. You need to help the medical team by breathing and pushing as they direct you. Don’t try to rush mum. Following the instruction will minimise any possible complications. Some times the medical team might decide that mum requires a small procedure called an epi-cut to minimise damages to their vagina.
After Birthing
This usually takes about half an hour. Injections are administered to minimize bleeding. If for any reason the placental discharge doesn’t happen during this time, the medical team will take necessary steps to take it out.
The weekly count is almost nearing completion mum. The day you finally carry your baby is almost here! It’s not Mom, everyone in your family is eagerly awaiting this special moment.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
We assure you that you will forget all about the pain and discomfort you are going through soon as you see the face of your little bundle of joy. Labour pains are considered one of the most painful experiences humans will experience in their lifetime. However, the degree of pain varies from woman to woman.
Some mums fear normal delivery, perhaps because of previous experiences, misinformation, or ignorance. It may be that the mother is scared to give birth to her baby. We won’t be wrong if we say the actual pain a mum will feel during labour depends mostly on her state of mental strength.
As we mentioned earlier its best for you to be fully aware of the benefits and the entire experience a mum will go through in the event of normal delivery. Did you know that Sri Lankan hospitals are fully equipped with various facilities to help reduce the labour pains you experience?
By this time, Your little one’s last-minute developments too are almost completing. They now have full physical functionality to live in this brave new world they will soon discover. Your baby is now nearly 20 inches (19.5 in) tall from head to toe.
Are you spending time worrying about childbirth? In particular the pain? Don’t worry mum, today there are many ways to reduce this pain. As a mum, you have every right to ask what your options are to reduce pain.
In most private hospital wards, they allow the little one’s father to stay close to mum during labour. In some government hospitals, they allow mum to be accompanied by another close female relative or friend.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
Running out of patience mum? Thinking, when will your little one come out so mummy can finally hug them? This impatience might also be tempered with a touch of apprehensiveness.
But why? Your doctor and the team will be ready for you. Your family and loved ones will surround and support you. Did you check with the hospital whether dad/your mum/sister can accompany you?
This is not a time to get fearful. It is a time to wait impatiently and expectantly for the arrival of that special one. So keep smiling and stay happy!
The baby's head should now have turned downwards. Your baby’s skin is well fortified with fat needed to regulate their temperature, soon as they are out. Your little one’s weight would now exceed 3kg (the exact weight will vary from baby to baby).
Now, your little baby is impatient to see their mom. How much longer to wait you ask? It won’t be long mum.
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital.
You have now entered the last week of pregnancy. If you have not felt any indications of entering childbirth, expect it to happen over the next 5 days (before the commencement of the 41st week). Your doctor will inform you about the expected date of hospitalization before the end of the week. Most mothers give birth before 40 weeks. In Sri Lanka, doctors do not wait until the 42nd week is completed for childbirth. They advise mums to give birth between the 40th and 41st week.
Your little one is over 5 kg now, and the height from head to foot is about 51 cm. The baby’s skull is still not firm. This is to help your baby come out.
Mum you and family need to have emergency plans set in place to rush you to the hospital soon as you enter labour or if your water bag breaks.
Mum, you have had a long and testing journey over the past weeks. At times it has been so tough. But only a mum could have borne it all. Now you are about to receive the ultimate crown for such love and dedication. You will have many adventures and challenges being a parent but you will find this to be such a rewarding journey. One day this little one will be a parent too. Mum and Dad can then share their experiences with them. We extend our best wishes to you and dad! Hope you
Article by Dr. Krishan de Silva, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Balapitiya Base Hospital
Your baby is all ready to come out to this world! Get ready to welcome your little one to the family and provide him with love and protection. Stay tuned to our website to know how to bring up a healthy, well-mannered child.
ducating yourself about this amazing journey of pregnancy is crucial. Sourced with the knowledge of experts in the field, here are some of our latest articles on pregnancy.
