You're now into your third and final trimester! Congratulations! This is the home stretch. In just a couple more months, you'll have a new baby! If you're wondering what's going on in your seventh month of pregnancy, we've got all the info for you here.
Key Points
- Your baby is likely too big to move a lot at this point, but you may still feel kicks and rolls.
- Your baby now weighs about five pounds!
- Continue maintaining a balanced diet and a low-impact, low-intensity exercise regime.
Your Baby's Growth in Month Seven
Rapid brain growth continues in month seven. The fetus is getting too big now to move around very much, but it can kick strongly and roll. You may notice the shape of an elbow or heel through your belly.
The bones of the head are soft and flexible, which make it easier for the baby to fit through the birth canal. The lungs may still be immature, but even if born before 37 weeks pregnant the fetus has an excellent chance for survival. Your baby is now about 18 inches long and weighs about five pounds. He or she will continue to add fat for the rest of your pregnancy. Their eyelids will remain fused together until roughly 28 weeks.
Your Body's Changes In Month Seven
If your ankles and feet swell from standing or walking, lie down with your feet raised. If swelling lasts longer than 24 hours, or if your hands or feet swell suddenly, call your health care provider immediately. Stretch marks may appear on your abdomen and breasts. You may feel false Braxton Hicks contractions, which will prepare your body for labor. This is normal, but call your health care provider if you have more than five contractions in one hour. As your belly gets bigger, you may lose your sense of balance.
Back pain is common at this stage. If you have trouble sleeping, try using a pregnancy pillow for added support and comfort. Consider getting a massage to help with back pain.
Constipation and heartburn may continue being a problem at this stage. If you experience severe forms of these symptoms or if they have a severe impact on your quality of life, speak with your doctor.
Prenatal Care in Month Seven
Visit your doctor or health care provider for your month seven checkup. Continue to eat a variety of foods that are good for you. You should gain about one pound a week this month. This is the month to start looking into childbirth education classes, if you haven't already. Most health care providers do a blood test for gestational diabetes at 28 to 30 weeks pregnant.
Continue undertaking low-impact, low-intensity exercise as much as you can. Walking is usually the best way to do this. By exercising in a way that's appropriate for you and your baby, you'll help keep your stress levels down and avoid gaining too much weight.
Although you'll still need more nutrients than normal at this stage, avoid taking dietary supplements without consulting your doctor first. Taking supplements without a doctor's aid can cause you to overdose on nutrients. This can cause health problems that could harm you or your baby.
Try to manage your stress as much as possible. Extreme stress can cause you to go into preterm labor, so it's important for you and your baby that you manage your mental health. Set boundaries in your personal life, and seek support from a mental health professional if necessary. If you have pre-existing anxiety problems, talk to your doctor about how to manage them during pregnancy.
Do not take the content of this article as professional medical advice. It's important to exercise due diligence when obtaining relevant information in matters pertaining to your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.
