Aches and pains abound in the ninth and final month of pregnancy. Physically, the cumulative weight gain may make the mother uncomfortable, even while sitting or lying down. Emotionally, she may feel quite ready to finally meet her baby. Worries and anxieties may surface towards the end of the pregnancy, sometimes manifesting themselves as aches and pains throughout the back, neck or shoulders. The mother-to-be may rest assured that the end is near. At this point she visits her doctor or midwife weekly.
Physical Pains
The lower back, abdomen, uterus and cervix all feel the considerable weight of the baby. Some mothers feel the baby “drop” or “lighten”—in other words, they feel the baby move into station for impending labor. This places even more pressure on the bladder, increasing the need to urinate and making it difficult to sleep at night. As the baby drops, the sciatica and round ligament pain that is common in the third trimester tends to increase. At this point, many mothers find it difficult to lie flat on their sides, opting instead to sleep at an incline. Braxton Hicks contractions may increase in the ninth month, preparing the body for real contractions of labor.
Emotional Pains
As physical pains make it difficult for the mother to sleep, she may find herself up late at night worrying about the impending birth or the logistics of caring for a baby. Many mothers feel the urge to “nest”--or prepare and freeze meals, do laundry and deep clean the house--during the ninth month, according to Pregnancy Info. This is an evolutionary response to impending labor. While this may be a welcome burst of energy for some, pregnant women must take care not to overdo it.
Ways to Cope
Prenatal yoga is an excellent way to ease both the physical and emotional pains of the ninth month. A walk or swim gently exercises the body and soothes the mind. Pregnant women should pay extra attention to hydration and make sure their vitamin and mineral intake is sufficient. Iron, calcium, magnesium and B vitamins are crucial throughout the pregnancy and particularly towards the end.
Treatments
Some pregnant women may discuss additional treatments with their doctors or midwives. Acupuncture and massage both ease physical and emotional maladies associated with the ninth month of pregnancy.
Warning
Aches and pains could be a sign of labor, especially at nine months’ gestation. According to Babycenter.com, if the pains wrap around from back to front or come and go at regular intervals, the mother may actually be in labor. Her water may also break, or she may notice bloody vaginal discharge. In any case, she should contact her birth professional immediately.
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