There are several changes that take place in a woman's body, during the course of her pregnancy and most of these changes affect her belly. Since an average pregnancy lasts for around 40 weeks, it is only natural that a 39 weeks pregnant belly will be totally different from the belly at the start of the pregnancy. Since most of the weight gain in the baby takes place in the third trimester, the growth of the baby is the most rapid at this pace; studies indicate that babies gain around 28 grams each day in the 39th week.
As the baby keeps growing till the day of delivery, the size of a baby in a 39 weeks pregnant belly is close to the size of a watermelon. Apart from the size, there are other changes too that may be seen in a 39 weeks pregnant belly, some of which may include:
Many pregnant women experience Braxton Hicks contractions during the 39th week of pregnancy, which could cause their belly to turn hard and tight. These are quite normal and are not really a cause for concern.
The hardness in the stomach should abate, after changing positions. However, in case a 39 weeks pregnant tight belly is accompanied by back pain, or if the constricted feeling in the belly does not go away in spite of changing positions, then it could be an indication of real labor, which requires immediate medical attention.
As the skin on the belly continues to stretch to accommodate the growth of the baby, it is quite normal for a woman to experience a 39 weeks pregnant itchy belly. Although this problem can be quite uncomfortable, it is not a major cause for concern. In fact, the itchiness can be elevated by applying a strong moisturizer or some petroleum jelly on the affected area. It is also advisable to wear cool, loose and comfortable clothing; synthetic fiber should be avoided.
Due to the surge in hormones towards the end of pregnancy it is not uncommon for a woman to break out into a rash on the belly. In fact, the 39 weeks pregnant rash on belly is referred to, as PUPPPs, i.e., Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy. Doctors claim that this rash disappears on its own, after the baby is born. In case the discomfort is unbearable, a woman can consult a doctor for natural ways to alleviate it.
It is quite easy for women to view images of 39 weeks pregnant belly through books and online resources. However, the amount of weight gained by the baby as well as the woman during different stages of the pregnancy may differ and therefore, the 39 weeks pregnant belly may vary a bit, from woman to woman.
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