Have You Started Preparing Your Birth Plan?
As your due date approaches, it’s time to start thinking about a clear birth plan. A birth plan helps you know your preferences and what you would like to happen before, during, and after labor. It should be discussed with your doctor or midwife, so the medical team knows your wishes.
A birth plan may include:
- What do you prefer, a natural or a cesarean delivery?
- What kind of pain relief would you like?
- Who do you want to have with you in the delivery room?
But remember, flexibility is key. Birth doesn’t always go according to plan, so it’s important to trust the medical team to make the right decisions for your and your baby’s safety.
Physical symptoms
At 30 weeks pregnant, your uterus should measure between 28 and 32 cm from your pubic bone to the top of the uterus. You’ve likely gained about 7.5 to 11.5 kg by now. If you’re carrying twins, it’s normal to gain about 1.5 kg per week during the second and third trimesters.
You must be alert to abrupt or unusual weight gain, that may be a signal for preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication. Contact your doctor right away if you notice this.
Swelling in the feet is also very common now. Choose wide, comfortable shoes that give your feet space to stretch.
If you feel uncomfortable or unsatisfied with your current doctor or clinic, don’t feel obligated to stay. You still have time to make a change, Just make sure your insurance allows it.
Some symptoms, such as mood swings, frequent urination, and exhaustion, may return. During the third trimester, these are common. Try to rest, take care of your physical and emotional health, and allow yourself time to relax.
You may also see a change in your belly button. As your uterus pushes outward, your innie might become an outie. This may make you sensitive or uncomfortable. You can lessen friction with your clothing by using medical tape or a soft cloth.
Rarely, some women experience a hard lump close to the navel and excruciating pain. This is called umbilical hernia, which If occurs, may require medical help right away, because it might be an emergency.
Sleep Issues and Odd Dreams
During this week, a lot of pregnant may have strange and unsettling dreams or trouble falling asleep. This is due to natural anxiety and hormonal changes as labor approaches.
These dreams are not real, and do not cause a negative effects. Discuss them with your partner or doctor if they are upsetting to you. Talking about your feelings and fears can make you better and put things into perspective.
What are options for pain relief during birth?
Now is an excellent time to learn about various pain management techniques. To know what is best for you, talk to your doctor. Choices consist of:
- Epidural anesthesia: lessen pain from the waist down.
- Relaxation and breathing techniques: promote body calmness.
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): reduce pain and anxiety during contractions.
- Analgesics: reduce pain and anxiety without total numbness or sedation.
- Natural birth methods: like Lamaze, water birth, the Bradley Method, hypnobirthing, or the Alexander Technique.
- Local anesthesia:it includes the perineal, spinal, or pudendal blocks, for local sedation.
- Warm baths, massage, or aromatherapy: support relaxation and comfort.
Ask your doctor about an episiotomy, which is a tiny surgical incision made between the vagina and the anus to facilitate childbirth. it’s only done when medically necessary.