Foetal Development in Late Pregnancy
Late pregnancy
29-36 weeks of pregnancy
As your baby grows, there is less space for your lungs and you may feel breathless. Leg cramps at night are common, and you may find it difficult to sleep. You may also note you need to pass urine a lot. You will feel more backache as the foetus grew and compressed on your spine and pelvis.
Your baby continues to be very active with stretching and kicking movements and they may have hiccup. She/he gains weight very quickly. The different regions of the brain are forming. Your baby's bone continue to be harden, but the skull remains soft and flexible for delivery. Taste buds develop, and the foetus can taste sweet and sour. They can open and close their eyes and sense changes in light.
By 35 weeks, the baby is usually lying with his/her head downwards, in preparation for birth. The lungs are maturing and getting ready to function outside the uterus at 36 weeks.
You may feel irregular tightening over your womb – known as Braxton-Hicks contraction, which is normal part of pregnancy. However, if you feel more frequent, regular, painful contractions or other associated signs of labour (such as show or leaking), you should consult your doctor or go to the hospital.
37-40 weeks of pregnancy
The foetus drops lower into the pelvis. More fat accumulates, especially around the elbows, knees, and shoulders.
From 37 weeks onwards, your baby is considered fully matured (full term) and labour contractions can begin at any time.