If you’re healthy, let your baby’s brain keep growing! Getting to 39 weeks is a goal, but 40 weeks is often better. “Experts are learning that scheduling an early birth for non-medical reasons can cause problems for mom and baby,” says the March of Dimes. They go on to explain that before 39 weeks, babies are actually still immature in brain development, while babies born after 39 weeks have health advantages. Plus, spontaneous labor gives baby and birth giver the advantage of hormones like oxytocin that aren’t available when labor starts artificially with medication.
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Pregnancy discomfort is a leading reason why inductions are requested this week. To help the baby grow their brain fully, let’s help you find immediate comfort. See our Activities of the Week below for tips on releasing tight muscles and supporting loose muscles. For starters, wear a sacroiliac (SI) belt around the hips or a belly band under the abdomen. The key to comfort: pelvic stability meets mobility.
A well-functioning metabolism also seems to support the baby’s spontaneous start of labor. You’ve developed a happy metabolism with your self-care during this pregnancy. We presented you with self-care to help restore and maintain body balancing. Balancing helps the baby curl into a snug, little ball, and aim the crown of the head onto the inside of the cervix. Now your body senses baby’s presence on the “door” of the uterus. Hormones respond. This round, even pressure feels like a fullness low in your center. Later the hormonal response helps the baby and uterus begin smooth labor.
For additional education to even further enhance your pregnancy and labor preparation, shop our extensive collection of digital downloads, videos, DVDs, workbooks, and more.
