What’s happening to my baby?
Less than 10 weeks to go and things are getting serious! Your baby is starting to shed the fine down called lanugo that has covered it up until now. Although their lungs are developing strongly, your baby might still need specialist assistance breathing in the event of a premature birth.
What’s happening to me?
You might hear advice about not lying down on your back. This is because, in this position, your uterus and the baby can put pressure on the vena cava. This big vein runs down the right side of your back, and any pressure on it can reduce blood flow and cause pain and light-headedness. This is why women at this stage of the pregnancy should try to sleep on their left side. Normal bed pillows or special pregnancy pillows can greatly assist your comfort.
Prenatal visits will increase in frequency, which will allow specialists to monitor how your pregnancy is tracking. The position of your baby is becoming an increasing focus as it might indicate an early birth and might determine whether you will need a caesarean in the later weeks. Any vaginal bleeding or itching is a cause for concern, and if these occur you should speak to a doctor immediately.