7 Months Pregnant: Pregnancy Month by Month
You've entered the third trimester, the final stretch of pregnancy in so many ways.
Common Pregnancy Symptoms at Seven Months Pregnant
At this stage of the third trimester, it's common to feel the effects of your growing tummy and of your progressing pregnancy. Symptoms can include:
Back pain
Fatigue
Swollen hands and feet
Heartburn
Stretch marks
Itchy skin
Foot and leg cramps
Hot flashes
Frequent urination
Shortness of breath
Mood changes
Insomnia
Braxton Hicks contractions
Remember, everyone is different, and you may not experience all of these pregnancy symptoms. Some pregnancy symptoms that can worry moms-to-be include:
Stretch marks: At seven months pregnant, your baby bump will be getting bigger each day. As a result, you might get stretch marks on your tummy, as well as your breasts, thighs, arms, or buttocks. Many women get these pink or reddish purple lines, but, after birth, they'll usually fade with time. Keeping a healthy pregnancy diet and gaining the right amount of weight gradually throughout the pregnancy may help reduce the likelihood of stretch marks.
Itchy skin: As your skin stretches, it might also itch. Rub soothing oils or a gentle moisturizer on your skin and bathe in warm water, as hot water can be too drying for your skin.
Seven Months Pregnant: Changes Inside and Out
Your Baby's Development: At about week 32, babies often turn head-down in preparation for birth and also start to move downward, putting pressure on your bladder (bathroom, anyone?). This may take some pressure off your lungs, making it a little easier to breathe. Your baby's bones are also beginning to harden.
The skull, however, remains softer so that the baby can pass through the birth canal more easily. The plates of the skull slide over each other during birth, which is why some babies are born with a cone-shaped head. Don't worry, though — the shape of your baby's head will go back to normal within a few days.
Changes to Your Body: During the seventh month of pregnancy, the space is getting a little snug in your uterus, and your baby might be moving less because of this. You are still likely to feel some movement each day.
Because your center of gravity changes as your tummy grows, you might feel unsteady on your feet, so take your time while walking. As your belly expands, you might also lose the ability to bend over, and your gait might even change to support your tummy.
Your breasts will grow and become even heavier. The veins on your breasts might become more visible, and the color of your nipples might darken.
Seventh Month of Pregnancy Quick List
Rest up: It’s important to get as much rest as possible. Although you might find sleeping more difficult as your tummy grows, try sleeping on your side with pillows supporting your tummy, and place a pillow between your legs.
Find out about preterm labor: Many moms-to-be worry about preterm labor and can sometimes mistake it for Braxton Hicks contractions. To help allay your fears, it might help to get familiar with the signs of preterm labor, which include persistent cramps or contractions, spotting or bleeding, and lower back pain. If you’re concerned you might be in preterm labor, or have any questions about what you're experiencing, consult your doctor.
Talk to loved ones: With all of the pregnancy symptoms and your changing body shape, you might feel that you’ve lost control over your body. It’s an emotional time, and these feelings are normal. Try to rest and relax, talk to loved ones about how you’re feeling, and remember that you don’t have much longer to go.
Learn about Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions are also known as "false" contractions, and you might experience several during your third trimester.
Brainstorm baby names: You might have settled on a baby name, but if not try the Pampers Baby Name Generator, as it might help you land on the perfect name for your little one.
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