Pregnancy is a time characterized by an array of emotions, ranging from joy to pain. Entering the seventh month, the baby already weighs just more than a full pound and is approximately 9-inches long. The mother is now visibly pregnant, having gained on average 10 to15 pounds. She may have experienced some back pain as well as itchy skin from stretching.
Week 25 to 26
During the first half of this month, the baby will grow to a full 2 pounds in weight and more than 9-inches in length. The hearing is fully developed, and as the baby hears noise, his heart rate increases. The mother may notice that music makes the baby move more, and he is developing patterns of waking and sleeping. As for the mom, she should feel reassured by the increased movement. Weight gain will be around 1 pound per week. As the baby grows, rib cage pain may be felt.
Week 27 to 28
By the end of the seventh month, the baby weighs about 2.5 pounds and has grown up to 16 inches . The baby can now suck his thumb, which strengthens the muscles of his jaw and mouth. He can now cry as well and can detect changes in light and dark. As the uterus grows, stretch marks may be visible. Most importantly, the baby has settled into the proper position for birth with his head facing downward. Also, the mother's center of gravity has shifted with the growing belly and pain may increase in the lower back.
Things to Think About
Since this is the third trimester, it is a good idea to begin discussing with the doctor or midwife about the various options of childbirth, including medications for the labor pain. The doctor should inform the expecting parents of signs of labor. It is advisable to begin planning what do once the mother is in labor. It may be wise to assign a close family member or friend to make phone calls so the expecting parents do not have to worry about it.
Going into Month Eight
As month eight comes around, the baby will continue to grow and the mother will continue to gain weight. There may be early contractions, particularly if the mother is on her feet such as continuing to work. So long as the contractions are not continuous or unbearable, the doctor may continue to allow her to work. The doctor's office should be contacted if contractions occur, however.
Tips
Now is a good time to research and begin childbirth classes. Also, because the baby can respond in utero to singing, talking and reading, the parents can read books or sing songs close to the belly. A 3D ultrasound at this stage of pregnancy will show many distinguishable features of the baby, so many parents-to-be opt to have one performed during the seventh month.
References
- "What to Expect When You are Expecting," Heidi Murkoff, Arlene Eisenberg, Sandee Hathaway, 2008
- "Great Expectations," Sandy and Marcie Jones, 2004
