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40 Weeks Pregnant: What To Expect
Congratulations on coming this far because week 40 means you and your baby are officially about to meet each other really soon! Many pregnant women take precautionary steps and prepare for the arrival of the baby by reading up on various pregnancy related material. We’ve got you covered too!
Your Baby's Growth During Pregnancy - Week 40
Your baby is making remarkable progress as she develops in the womb. Some of these developments include:
Layering up on fat: 15% of your baby’s body will be made up of fat that helps the little one in regulating her body temperature.
Nails and hair continue to grow: At 40 weeks, your baby’s nails and hair are still growing and will be more defined.
Lung adaptability: The lungs are almost developed for breathing the air outside.
Stocking up on antibodies: The placenta still gives the baby all the antibodies that she needs to ward off infections for the initial 6 months of her life.
Eyesight develops: Baby’s eyesight will be blurry and can focus only on objects that are an inch away.
Apart from these developments, there are other significant changes in her body that can be observed. For example, to ensure smooth passage for your baby through the birth canal, the bones in the skull will not be completely fused.
Also, your baby’s body is successfully breaking down bilirubin by moving across the placenta where it gets flushed out with the other waste products. Once the baby is born and the umbilical cord is cut, her body will have to get rid of the bilirubin on its own. This will normally take a few days. Sometimes it gets built up in the baby’s body and hence the baby may contract Jaundice. This can be taken care of by exposing her to light.
What is The Baby Size
40 weeks pregnant baby size would be between 2.7 Kgs to 4 Kgs by weight and will measure between 19 inches to 22 inches long (though a lot of babies who are born smaller or bigger have grown up to be healthy). Your baby will be of the size of a watermelon at this time.
Common Body Changes
Your body changes during pregnancy to accommodate and nurture the growing foetus. It is important to know that it is not necessary that your water will rupture before the onset of labour. In fact, very few women experience this. Even if your membrane ruptures, it will be a slow trickle or leak or even a small gush.
Symptoms of Pregnancy at Week 40
Pregnant women may experience the following symptoms:
1. Leg cramps
The baby at this stage will drop lower in the pelvis, thereby increasing the discomfort in the pelvic region. This is very common at 40 weeks.
2. Insomnia
It is okay if you can’t sleep as anxiety can keep you up at night. You may want to indulge in some relaxing activities like reading a book or writing a journal. Plenty of rest is also advised.
3. Fatigue
Since you can’t sleep properly you are bound to feel tired. So, make sure you have some peace and quiet time to help you relax.
4. Contractions
Those false contractions that you’ve probably been experiencing all this while (Braxton-Hicks) may actually ‘not be so false’ anymore. Time your contractions to analyse how far apart they actually are. In case time difference between two contractions is very less, you may have actually reached an early stage of labour.
What are The Signs of Labor
Even at 40 weeks, there might be no signs of labour. However, you can expect these signs to arrive soon. These include:
Frequent, rapid contractions: Once you start having contractions which make you uncomfortable or keep coming at regular intervals, you must go to the doctor.
Water leak/ break: You can check to see if there is a leak of amniotic fluid. This will mean that the water has broken or ruptured. You can easily distinguish between amniotic fluid from the normal discharge. The flow of amniotic fluid will not stop, unlike a regular discharge.
Inducing Labor at 40 Weeks
There are multiple ways to do this.
Membrane stripping
The doctor will put his or her gloved finger inside the cervix and sweep the membrane. This helps in producing prostaglandins that help to soften the cervix and induce labor. At this time, you may feel intense cramping and a little bit of bleeding. This procedure might be a little uncomfortable.
Dilating or ripening of the cervix
The doctor might induce labour with the help of certain medications if the cervix isn’t ready for labour. The synthetic medication called prostaglandins will induce labour and it can be taken orally or inserted into the vagina.
Rupturing the amniotic sac
The amniotic sac can be ruptured to start labour. This is called amniotomy. Here, the doctor will break or rupture the amniotic sac using a thin plastic hook. This is done only when the head of the baby has moved down or for a partially dilated cervix. For some women, the labor can happen within a few hours of breaking the water. However, it should be kept in mind that this varies for every woman.
Pitocin
These are synthetic hormones that can induce labor or make the contractions stronger.
Belly at 40 Weeks of Pregnancy
Two weeks after the due date, if you are still pregnant then it is officially post-term. 12% to 13% women have a post-term pregnancy. The good news is that the baby must come at some point and the bad news is that it could take another two weeks at most.
40 Weeks Ultrasound
An ultrasound of the baby at this stage will allow the doctors to know how developed the baby’s lungs are. A non-stress test will be done to monitor baby’s movements and see how her heart rate holds up during contractions. If the test results indicate that the baby will do better outside than inside the uterus, then labor can be induced.
What To Eat?
Below is a list of 40th week pregnancy food items a mother can consume during this period.
Toast: It needs to be kept bland but sustaining enough that it gives plenty of energy without straining the digestive system.
Pasta: Bland pasta is advisable as it provides a good carb-load for the strenuous exertion that happens during labour.
Jell-O or Applesauce: These are easy to consume and act as energy boosters.
Sorbet or Popsicle: This help to keep oneself hydrated and provide jolts of little energy. If they are made up from fruits, then these will provide vitamins as well.
Tips & Care
Below are a few tips that a mother can follow to keep herself comfortable.
Dos
Stimulating the nipple: Nipple stimulation releases the hormone oxytocin which causes contraction of the uterus. But this must be done only if the doctor approves of it.
Walks: Walking helps to induce labour by allowing the baby to move further down the birth canal. This also brings down the discomfort that women feel when they are experiencing contractions.
Spicy food: It is not proved that having spicy food induces labour, but you can try having food that has lots of garlic and cumin to trigger labour.
Sexual intercourse: This helps to induce labour and at the same time makes your partner and you feel closer to one another.
Dont's
Smoking: Even if you don’t smoke, being exposed to second-hand smoking can bring about respiratory disease in the unborn child.
Caffeine: Apart from aggravating insomnia, coffee has been known to increase the chances of diabetes for the child.
What You Need To Shop
A few things that a mother needs to have in hand before her bundle of joy gets out are:
Diapers
Hand sanitizers that are alcohol-free
Crib mattress protector pads that are waterproof and very soft
Nipple shield
Pacifier and bottle wipes
Breastfeeding salve
Conclusion
With the baby ready to come out anytime now, watch out for all the signs that may point to the start of labour. Also, make adequate arrangements so that when the time comes you can head to the hospital without any difficulty.
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MummasTouch Ridge Gourd Peel Chutney
Normally, the peel of ridge gourd is thrown away, but my mum uses the peel to prepare a fiery chutney out of it. Ridge gourd peel chutney, known as 'Dodkyachi Chutney' in Marathi, works as a perfect accompaniment with regular Maharashtrian meals. The best part? It is extremely easy to make.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
10 - 15 Minutes
10 - 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Peeled skin of 2 ridge gourds
3-4 tsps of sesame seeds
5-6 tsps of dessicated coconut, shredded
A pinch of sugar
3 green chillies, slit lengthwise
4-5 drops of lemon
Salt to taste
5 -6 curry leaves (optional)
Method
Step 1
Dry roast sesame seeds, dessicated coconut, green chillies for 10 - 15 min on a round tava.
Step 2
Fry peels on the pan till they get crispy. It will take approximately 9 - 10 minutes. Let it cool for a while.
Step 3
Grind all the ingredients to coarse mix in a mixer.
Step 4
Store this chutney in an air-tight container. This chutney will remain good for 15 days in the fridge.
Step 5
Just like any other dry chutney, you can serve this chutney with with roti or chapati.
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Packing Right and Light for Family Vacations
Planning to go on a vacation? You have set your mind to pick comfortable bags and stuff them only with items you really need. However, this can be easier said than done! Achieve your goal to travel light and right with these tips for your vacation packing checklist for family.
Packing is quite a task and few things are more irksome than carrying bulky bags when on a vacation. If you're planning a trip with your husband and kids, it's important to prepare a packing list for a family vacation. This will save you from lugging around bags that weigh a tonne and dealing with unnecessary knick-knacks you shouldn't have taken along.
Tips on How to Pack for a Family Vacation
1. Check the Weather Forecast
If you're travelling in the summer but don't quite know what the weather will be where you're going, check the forecast. Most weather websites provide forecasts for up to around 10 days. This should help you figure out the kind of clothes and footwear you need to take along.
2. Consider the Activities You'll be Engaging In
Even if you don't have a strict itinerary, think about the activities you and your family will probably be indulging in on the trip. Cliff jumping, hiking, swimming? Keep these in mind when preparing a vacation packing checklist. You can avoid stuffing bags with unnecessary items that are no help at all!
3. Don't Take Too Many Clothes
Clothes take up a lot of space. And while you may think it's important to carry separates for each day, or probably even a few extras, are they really required? If going for a longer vacation, use the laundry service at the place you'll be staying so you can repeat outfits. A few scarves, shrugs and accessories can help you and the kids put together different looks with the same clothes. ||
4. Avoid Packing Toys
Don't take along too many toys and games for your children as they only take up a lot of space. After all, the point is to spend time together as a family and to enjoy the experience of a new place. In any case, your kids will probably want you to get them a few new things wherever you're going!
5. Choose the Right Luggage Bags
Once you've figured out what to pack for a family vacation, it's time to choose the bags to take everything in. Backpacks are a good option as they're easy to carry and it's a good idea to pick ones with multiple pockets. Trolley bags are another good choice. If you have teenage children, task them to carry a backpack. Carry travel documents and other valuable items in a separate pouch and keep this close to you at all times.
These family travel tips will help you travel light and yet carry all your essentials. This way, all your attention can be on having fun and not painfully towing luggage along! Read more
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#ItalianLove Beet Cashew Ricotta
A cashew ricotta complements the sweet flavour of beet in this colorful dish.
serves
preparation
cooking Time
4 People
20 Hours
15 Hours
Ingredients
Cashew Ricotta
1 large head garlic
4 tsps (teaspoons) olive oil, divided
2 cups raw cashews, soaked 2–4 hours
4 tsps nutritional yeast
2 tbsps (tablespoons) fresh lemon juice
1 tsp sea salt
5 tsps apple cider vinegar
Pasta-Shaped Beets
½ lb. beets, greens removed
1½ tbsp olive oil
1 medium red onion, chopped (1½ cups)
1½ tsp balsamic vinegar
1½ tsp mirin (rice wine)
8 oz. whole-wheat linguine
¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
Method
To make Cashew Ricotta
Step 1
Preheat oven to 400°F. Slice garlic head, drizzle with 1 tsp oil and wrap in parchment paper, then in foil. Roast 1 hour, or until soft.
Step 2
Rinse and drain soaked cashews, and transfer to food processor. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, and vinegar. Squeeze roasted garlic from cloves into food processor, and blend until smooth.
To make Pasta shaped beets
Step 3
Boil beets in a large saucepan with enough water to cover the beets by an inch. Cover, simmer 35 to 40 minutes, or until beets are tender. Drain beets, and slip off skins under cool running water. Coarsely chop beets, and set aside.
Step 4
Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté for 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 5
Cook 15 minutes more on medium-low heat. Stir in balsamic vinegar and mirin. Cook 2 minutes, or until liquid evaporates. Transfer onion mixture to food processor, add beets, and purée until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, if desired, and transfer to medium saucepan. Keep warm.
Step 6
Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving 3 tablespoons pasta water. Return pasta to pot; toss with beet sauce, add remaining 1 1/2 tsp oil, and reserved pasta water. Top each serving with 2 tablespoons Cashew Ricotta, and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
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Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. In my growth scan doctor found that 2 round cord has been partly around baby necks. Is there any problem with this. will I get normal delivery?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. A lot of times normal delivery is actually seen in these cases also if the doctor is quick and the child cooperate then yes normal delivery is very much possible but some doctors don’t take a chance with the health of your child and so they normally suggest C-section so let’s see what’s your situation by the end when you are into your labour
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. I m preganant in 5 month in twin baby. Last lmp is 22/12/2023. my expected due date
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. 29.9.24. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Sunita Mahato has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 m old child
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts How to increase quantity of milk production?
Sunita Mahato
Mom of 3 children
2 hours ago
A. to increase milk take latction supplement as lactare...
take green papaya bottle gourd bitter gourd fennel seeds garlic oats ragi dalia sabudana ...
regular pumping increase milk use Babyhug electric breast pump...
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
2 hours ago
Q. hi doctor from two days i am eating milk cream with sugar and i want to burn it in my stomach I am 5 month pregnant plzz help ??
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. at present weight no exercise is other than moderate walking. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. I am in my 8th month of pregnancy (last week), and for some reason I am continously facing lot of fatigue. I am feeling deprived of energy and I don't have any energy to do anything. resting isn't Helping in any way and taking small walks isn't too. what can be the possible reason and how to overcome this.
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. yes that can be both physical and psychological problems during pregnancy ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 mins ago
Q. hi,
pls advice , after hcg tigger injection can we do intercourse to conceive and till when we can do ...trying to conceive
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
1 min ago
A. Hello dear! We understand your eagerness and concern. It is advisable to check with your consulting doctor regarding this matter. Clarify your concerns and follow your doctor’s advice. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
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