Week by week

This week at a glance

❤️Heartbeat~110–160 bpm

🧠Major developmentUsually settles head-down; sheds lanugo and vernix

Baby

Your baby is likely settling head-down ready for birth, and is shedding most of the downy lanugo and waxy vernix. The lungs are nearly fully developed and the baby is swallowing fluid and practising breathing. Weekly antenatal visits often begin now.

Mother

• Lightening as the baby drops
• Easier breathing
• More pelvic pressure

Nutrition

Dairy · Lean meat · Leafy greens · Whole grains · Oily fish

Tips

Do

• Attend weekly checks
• Finalise your birth plan
• Watch for labour signs

Avoid

• Ignoring regular contractions
• Alcohol
• High-mercury fish