Your Baby's Development
Umbilical cords, which carry nutrients from the placenta to the
baby, vary in size but average about 22 inches (55 cm) long and
half an inch (1-2 cm) thick. Sometimes the umbilical cord can
become wrapped around a baby's neck. Generally, this doesn't cause
problems, although a cesarean delivery could be required if it
causes pressure on the umbilical cord during labor or delivery. A
true knot in the umbilical cord is much less common, occurring in
only about 1% of pregnancies.
Most of the vernix that covered your baby's skin has
disappeared, as has the lanugo. Your body has been supplying the
baby with antibodies through the placenta that will help the
baby's immune system fight infection for the first 6-12 months
of life.
Your Body
Braxton Hicks contractions may become more pronounced. Also
called "false labor," these contractions may be as
painful and strong as true labor contractions but do not become
regular and do not increase in frequency as true contractions
do.
Another sign of labor, the rupture of your amniotic sac, could
happen any day now. When their water breaks, some women experience
a large gush of water and some feel a steady trickle. Many women
don't experience their water breaking until they're well into
labor. Others need to have their water broken by their health care
providers to get their labor started or to speed it up. If you
think your water has broken or you are experiencing regular
contractions, contact your health care provider.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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