If you haven’t already had your bub, you will probably be impatient for labour to start as your estimated delivery date approaches.  Try not to be disappointed if nothing has happened by your due date. Only about 5% of babies actually arrive on the date they were expected.  Keep yourself busy and make plans for each day so you’re ...

  You will probably be feeling both excited and apprehensive now the waiting is nearly over.  As the cervix softens in readiness for the birth, you might be having quite strong Braxton Hicks contractions.  You might be feeling heavy and weary but don’t just sit around waiting for something to happen.  Keep up your social life and talk to others ...

You may be feeling tired of waiting for bub to arrive now.  Try to keep busy and not feel depressed.  You will notice that the fetus is moving about less because the head is down in the uterus. Mum While you’re probably not getting any bigger you may be feeling increasingly uncomfortable. 95% of all babies are born within two ...

  The fetus has now started to produce a hormone called cortisone.  This will help the lungs to become fully matured and ready to cope with breathing once born.  The fine hair that covers the fetus’ body is beginning to wear off and although there is no air in his lungs, bub will be practicing breathing. Mum You are now ...

  Welcome to Week 36 of the Mums and Bubs Pregnancy Newsletter.  By now you will be able to feel the top of your uterus just below your breastbone making breathing uncomfortable and you might suffer from pain in your ribcage. Your ante natal checks will be weekly from now on. Mum It’s now time to see your health care ...

  It’s now Week 35 and if you have any worries about labour and birth you should discuss them with your health care professional.  You could be feeling tired and a little fed up so try to rest as much as possible.  During these last weeks you will be needing another 200 calories a day.  Save time and forestall anxiety ...

  It’s now week 34 of your pregnancy.  Your blood pressure may be slightly raised and you should take things easy if it is.  Try to put your feet up and get as much rest as possible especially if swelling of your hands and feet is a problem. Mum As your baby continues to prepare for birth, most women will ...

  At Week 33, your weight gain should have slowed down but if you are still gaining more than 1kg (2.25 lb) a week you should check with your doctor that everything is ok. Mum You are more than likely feeling clumsy, awkward and breathless now as your body is working overtime to continually provide all the nutrients and blood ...

  Welcome to week 32 of your pregnancy.  You may find the fetal movements uncomfortable now that bub is so much bigger and you may occasionally feel his feet getting stuck under your ribs.  If you work you may have left by now or set a date when you intend to leave. Mum The ligaments in your pelvis have softened ...

  Try not to overdo things and get as much rest as possible as breathlessness may be more of a problem now.  Slow down any exercise regime to one that’s comfortable for you.  If your breasts feel uncomfortable when you go to bed, wear a maternity or specially designed sleep bra at night. Mum You are probably starting to slow ...