Towards the end of pregnancy, women, especially those preparing to become a mother for the first time, are afraid not to notice that childbirth is beginning. There are a number of signs that indicate this. But especially suspicious pregnant women are ready to interpret any malaise or change in the body as the beginning of labor. That is why it is so important to monitor your well-being and the behavior of your baby. This will help prepare for an important event and arrive at the hospital on time.

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Physiological signs of close childbirth

As a rule, changes in the body before childbirth are associated with changes in the hormonal background of a woman, the readiness of the uterus for childbirth, maturation of the placenta and the maturity of the fetus. Harbingers of childbirth with a normal pregnancy appear at 38-39 weeks, but in some women they may occur earlier. Primiparous women begin to notice signs of labor a few days before, even weeks before, while women expecting a second and subsequent babies may experience familiar symptoms in just a few hours.

"Abdominal prolapse"

On this basis, in the old days, grandmothers predicted a speedy birth. The sign is based on changes in the body that occur at the end of pregnancy. With a cephalic presentation, shortly before childbirth, the head of the fetus drops lower, rises into the small pelvis, as doctors say. Accordingly, the upper part of the uterus also descends and no longer puts pressure on the stomach, lungs and other organs. It is not always possible to independently notice that the stomach has dropped, but the woman feels how it became easier to breathe, the shortness of breath when walking and climbing stairs ceases to torment, heartburn passes if she pestered in recent months.

When lowering the abdomen before childbirth, the navel protrudes even more, and the skin on the abdomen stretches more. It is at this stage that the rapid appearance of stretch marks is possible.

Frequent urination, changes in the nature of bowel movements

This is also a physiologically explainable sign. The lowered head of the child presses on the bladder with greater force, as a result of which it cannot fill to its full volume, and the urge to urinate occurs much more often. The woman notices that, although she began to go to the toilet more often, the volume of urine excreted has significantly decreased.

The strong pressure of the pregnant uterus on the intestines provokes constipation. Shortly before childbirth, there is a sharp increase in the hormone oxytocin, which, on the contrary, causes loosening of the stool. If frequent constipation is abruptly replaced by diarrhea, this sign indicates an impending birth.

Drawing pains in the lower back and lower abdomen

Before giving birth, for a more comfortable movement of the child through the birth canal, the ligaments are stretched, the cartilage softens, the pelvic bones gradually move apart, which causes discomfort, and in some women, quite tangible pain. At this time, gait and posture change. Many women also experience pubic pain caused by fetal pressure on the pelvic bones.

Increased discharge

White semi-liquid discharge before childbirth signals the imminent discharge of the mucous plug. Some pregnant women worry that amniotic fluid is leaking. In fact, water leakage is not as common as it seems. It is observed when the rupture of the fetal bladder occurs not at the uterine pharynx, but at one of the walls of the uterus. If there is any doubt about the nature of the discharge, then it is worth visiting a doctor. With the help of a special test, he will determine the presence of amniotic fluid in the secretions.

Changes in the cervix

The gynecologist will tell you about changes in the cervix at the next weekly examination. The cervix is ​​shortened and is 1-2 centimeters, the uterine pharynx begins to open. It is then that doctors talk about opening the cervix by 1 or 2 fingers.

At this time, the membranes are close, they are available for all kinds of infections, so the intimate hygiene should be more careful. Mandatory toilet of the genitals and change of linen twice a day. It is not necessary to use soap every time for washing: it dries out the mucous membrane. You can use a decoction of chamomile. You cannot take baths at this time; they should be replaced with a warm shower.

Discharge of the mucous plug

During pregnancy, the uterine pharynx is closed with a so-called mucous plug, which holds the baby and does not allow infection to enter. Abundant discharge in the form of a clot of mucus indicates that the plug has come off, and the cervix will open soon. In some women, the opening occurs gradually, in others, childbirth begins immediately after the plug comes off.

The plug can come off 2 weeks before delivery. Sometimes the plug does not come out entirely, but in parts, so it is not always recognized. You can guess that this is it by the nature of the discharge: transparent, dense, possibly streaked with blood.

Changes in the nature of fetal movements

Many pregnant women at 38-39 weeks notice a decrease in the number of fetal movements. Its movement is difficult and not so intense, since it becomes cramped in the uterus before childbirth.

Video: Harbingers of the approaching birth

There are also psychological precursors of childbirth, associated with a change in the hormonal background of a woman. Of course, such signs are very subjective and it can be quite difficult to draw conclusions based only on them.

Mood swings

Frequent mood swings, unreasonable tearfulness, irritability are associated with an increase in the hormone oxytocin before childbirth. A couple of days after the baby is born, this mood will remain. With the restoration of the balance of hormones, the psychological state is also stabilized.

Nesting instinct

A few days before giving birth, a woman has an irresistible desire to prepare an apartment for the appearance of a baby. This is expressed in the fact that she takes out and puts the baby's things into place, fills the crib, ironing the linen, and finds a place for a bath. In general, he arranges everything so that the child and the mother herself are comfortable. Some women may have an irresistible desire to start repairs in the apartment, to get rid of all that is superfluous.

Video: How the nesting instinct in pregnant women is explained

Reliable signs of close childbirth

If before that the signs did not manifest themselves clearly, the woman was based on the words of the doctor and her own feelings and sensations, then reliable signs indicate that childbirth will begin in the next day:

1. Uterine tone. The uterus contracts, "turns to stone", which is felt well if you put your hand on your stomach. It occurs, as a rule, already in the initial stages of contractions and promotes the baby's progress to the uterine pharynx during childbirth.
2. Contractions. The first phase, latent, is characterized by sipping on the lower abdomen. Many women confuse contractions in this phase with false contractions. However, they gradually increase, the gap between them becomes shorter. This is already an active phase. At this time, you should go to the hospital.
3. Discharge of amniotic fluid. If the waters have moved away, this does not mean that the child will be born immediately. Often, the water leaves at the very beginning of labor, when the cervix is ​​not yet open. Then the doctors talk about the anhydrous period, and the mother's card will definitely indicate how long it lasted. It happens, on the contrary, when the cervix is ​​fully dilated, the fetal bladder remains intact. In this case, it is pierced so that the child can safely pass through the birth canal.

Important to remember: If the water has gone outside the maternity ward, you should immediately go there. A long anhydrous period can lead to infection of the fetus, birth injuries. You need to try to remember the color and smell, as well as the presence of foreign impurities (for example, blood, meconium) in the amniotic fluid and, upon arrival at the hospital, tell the doctor about everything. By the nature of the amniotic fluid, he will conclude about the condition of the child.

Signs of premature labor

Premature delivery is considered to be between 28 and 36 weeks of gestation. They can occur for various reasons, proceed both rapidly and gradually. Premature labor usually begins suddenly, but some signs may indicate them:

• a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen;
• frequent finding of the uterus in good shape;
• abrupt drooping of the abdomen;
• a feeling of pressure on the pelvic bones;
• growing pains of a cramping character.

If one or more signs of labor are found, an urgent need to consult a doctor. In most cases, preterm labor can be stopped.

Most pregnant women look forward to the final weeks before giving birth. Many patients in the position believe that this is the best period in order to enjoy the pregnancy. In fact, the patient's feelings before the onset of labor change dramatically. Pregnant women experience dramatic changes in well-being, irritability and drowsiness before childbirth.

Why do patients in a position really want to sleep at a later date? What happens to the body of a pregnant woman a few days and hours before giving birth? How long does the lull last? What are the signs that signal an impending contraction?

Feelings of a woman just before childbirth

In anticipation of the onset of labor, the woman's sensations change slightly. The first changes begin three weeks before the onset of labor and last until the birth process. A pregnant woman during this period is experiencing a powerful hormonal change, which affects mental health and the functionality of internal organs. The main task for the expectant mother is not to overlook or confuse normal physiological changes with the development of pathology. Any new sensations that raise doubts should be discussed with the gynecologist conducting the pregnancy.

Well-being in the last weeks of pregnancy

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The well-being of pregnant women before childbirth has its own specifics. The emotional state of the woman in labor, like the physical, changes somewhat. Some patients in the position feel weakness, drowsiness and fatigue against the background of significant fetal weight gain 2-3 weeks before childbirth, so they constantly want to sleep (we recommend reading :). In other pregnant women, on the contrary, there is a lull. They are enjoying the final days of pregnancy and are in the mood for the coming birth.

Physiological changes are associated with the preparation of the body for the upcoming birth process. Abdominal prolapse is an absolutely normal physiological phenomenon due to the baby's desire to exit the birth canal.

If the gynecologist notices that the abdomen has dropped strongly, the cervix has smoothed out and became soft, this indicates the maturity of the fetus and imminent birth.

The physical state

Many pregnant women are very afraid of any physical disturbances a few days before giving birth, so they often turn to their gynecologist for an explanation of what kind of changes await them. At the 9th month of pregnancy, all patients in the position face the following physiological changes:

• Abdominal prolapse. The height of the uterine fundus is an indicator of the dynamics of the baby's development. This parameter is measured by a gynecologist at each scheduled and unscheduled visit. The highest indicator of the height of the standing of the fundus is observed at 37-38 weeks. At this time, patients most often complain of strong pressure on the stomach and diaphragm. 2-4 weeks before childbirth, the abdomen begins to sink down to the pubis. The expectant mother can see this omission even in the mirror. Such a change signals that the child begins to move towards the birth canal. Accordingly, it becomes easier for a woman to breathe, but at this time, women in labor often experience discomfort in the pubic area.

• Frequent trips to the toilet. As the fetus grows rapidly in the last weeks of pregnancy, the uterus begins to press hard on the intestines and bladder. Many patients go to the doctor with complaints of frequent urination, especially at night, but in fact this phenomenon is an absolute norm. The stool of a pregnant woman also becomes frequent and liquefied a few weeks before delivery.
• Profuse discharge. A few days or hours before the onset of contractions, the patient, as a rule, notices an excessive amount of mucous discharge on her underwear. They can signal the destruction and partial or complete release of the mucous plug.
• Painful sensations. A day or two before the onset of labor, a pregnant woman periodically experiences pulling pains, similar to the manifestations of menstruation.
• Fossilization of the uterus. This is the main sign of training contractions. They are also accompanied by painful sensations in the lower abdomen or back. Unlike true fights, training fights are irregular.
• Bulging of the navel. Some women experience this change in the middle of the third trimester. The bulging is due to excessive pressure on the abdominal area.

Psychological condition

The emotional health of a pregnant woman changes dramatically in the last weeks before childbirth. Many women are very concerned about this issue and they are trying to independently find the reason why this is happening. Most pregnant women in the 3rd trimester are overtaken by apathy and weakness. Many women associate their fatigue and loss of strength with the fact that the child is actively gaining weight and putting pressure on all organs. Against this background, all the usual things become a burden. It is difficult for pregnant women in late stages to put on shoes, bathe in the shower and go for walks with a huge belly.

Many women are characterized by tearfulness and irritability. This is due to the fact that cardinal changes occur in the body of a pregnant woman at a later date due to the upcoming birth. Patients in a position sometimes themselves cannot explain what is happening to their body, and why tears sometimes roll for no reason.

In this case, a woman should pull herself together and think about her baby. Fear, fear contribute to increased spasm, as a result of which the likelihood of a slow opening of the cervix increases.

On the contrary, some expectant mothers have a nesting effect during this period. They strive to equip their own apartment as comfortably as possible, including the nursery. This effect has many positive aspects. A pregnant woman has little free time for thoughts and reflections that catch up with melancholy. Home improvement can become part of a pregnant woman's own self-realization.

Why can you feel unwell at the end of the 3rd trimester?

The poor health of a woman at the end of the 3rd trimester is explained by hormonal changes. An increase in the amount of estrogen in the blood affects a woman's mood. Loud laughter and joy can suddenly be replaced by tears.

In addition to the fact that a pregnant patient in the later stages experiences apathy, a breakdown, she may begin to be bothered by other unpleasant symptoms:

• excessive sweating;
• blood pressure surges;
• unreasonable chills or fever;
• blurred consciousness and dizziness.

All of the above manifestations, although considered normal physiological changes in late pregnancy, should be reported by the patient to the gynecologist who leads the pregnancy. If such signs are indeed manifestations of hormonal imbalance, the woman must follow the doctor's recommendations.

What caused the sudden change in mood?

Mood instability a couple of days before the onset of labor is absolutely normal. In addition to changes in hormonal levels, the cause of mood swings is a pregnant woman's own mood. Many women become depressed; other pregnant women are shrouded in fear. Mood change is a kind of defensive reaction to external and internal irritating factors. Unreasonable headaches or dizziness can trigger tears in a second.

Harbingers of childbirth

Most patients in position are eagerly awaiting the harbingers of childbirth. Abdominal prolapse, pain, severe discharge and other signs cannot indicate that childbirth will begin day after day (we recommend reading :). The most accurate precursors of contractions include:

• Discharge of the mucous plug (for more details in the article:). Women who have a jelly-like mucus plug can rejoice. Its destruction is a signal that contractions will begin in a matter of days or hours. The plug can come off completely at one time or partially over several days. Complete destruction of the mucous membrane is a sure sign that the cervix is ​​beginning to open.
• Training uterine contractions. Many patients before childbirth go through training contractions (for more details in the article:). At the same time, the woman experiences the same pain as during real contractions. The only difference is the regularity. If the interval between them is different, this means that real contractions will begin only after a couple of days or weeks.
• Softening of the cervix. If the doctor at the examination noticed that the cervix has become softer and more pliable, this means that it is completely ready for the onset of labor. Her maturity is an exact criterion that signals the readiness of the female body for childbirth.

Before giving birth, women experience a whole range of indescribable feelings: among them insomnia, fear, impatience. They also feel some physiological changes, such as abdominal prolapse, discharge of the mucous plug and slight weight loss. Let's take a closer look at what is happening to the expectant mother in the last weeks, what she needs to be prepared for, and we will give some recommendations.

How to get rid of anxiety and sleep well

Fear of childbirth arises in all women in labor, even those who go through this process not for the first time. The fear of pain, that something will happen to you or the baby, poisons the pleasant expectation of the baby's birth. What can you advise? Rather, switch to something else, interesting. Have you wanted to watch a TV show for a long time? Right now! Stock up on DVDs and dive into the experiences of the characters, so you get distracted from your own. Don't want to watch TV? Then buy books. And don't forget about walking. It is not worth spending the whole day at home. Kid, and you yourself need an influx of fresh air saturated with oxygen. For a mother, this is also a plus because fresh air and small physical activity ensure a calm deep sleep before childbirth.

By the way, about the night's rest. Insomnia often worries expectant mothers in the last weeks. Too frequent and strong movements of the child, plus a huge belly, with which it is not easy to take a comfortable position, are forced to think about sleeping pills. But their mothers-to-be shouldn't drink. And valerian, which is so often prescribed by doctors, provides more of a placebo effect. But if you believe in the effectiveness of this herb, then you can safely drink it, it is not harmful.

But it would be much better to take care of your sleep differently. Before giving birth, the baby calms down, as there is too little space in the uterus, which means that you will be able to fall asleep much easier and sleep longer. You need to find a comfortable position. Doctors recommend sleeping on a medium firm mattress on the left side. Pillows can be placed between the legs and on the right side. It is very important to maintain a comfortable temperature and humidity in the room where you sleep. Remember to regularly ventilate the room, and always before bed. Do not drink a lot before going to bed, otherwise you will have to get up to the toilet several times at night; in expectant mothers, urination during long periods of pregnancy is quite frequent.

Before going to bed, do not watch TV, so as not to gain impressions for the night. This is especially true of heavy films - dramas, horrors, thrillers, etc. Gynecologists recommend watching only comedies that evoke positive emotions before childbirth.

Shortly before the start of labor, and sometimes even a few hours before the contractions, the expectant mother sneaks into a general cleaning, the "nesting instinct" is triggered. Just do not overwork too much, do not lift weights, otherwise placental abruption may begin, or amniotic fluid will move away.

Physiological changes

In the body of the expectant mother, changes begin to occur 1-3 weeks before childbirth. Preparations for the birth of a child are in full swing. So, what the expectant mother can feel and notice.

1. Contractions before childbirth, the so-called preparatory. They do not lead to the opening of the cervix, last a few seconds, are not regular and painless. No need to be afraid of them and just go to the doctor or call an ambulance. It is quite another matter if these contractions are accompanied by bloody discharge from the vagina or discharge of amniotic fluid - then urgently see a doctor.

Before childbirth, the stomach and lower back ache, the contractions are regular, their strength is growing. Painful sensations cannot be removed by non-drug methods. Here's what you need to know about starting labor.

2. The cervix also begins to prepare in advance to release the baby from the uterus. This is especially noticeable in multiparous, in which the opening of 1-2 fingers can occur even 2 weeks before the hour of X. Usually, at the same time as this small opening, the cork leaves before childbirth. This is such a rather noticeable, voluminous lump of mucus with bloody streaks. These veins appear due to the fact that small vessels burst in the cervix as a result of its opening. It should be noted that the cork can come off even during contractions. Some expectant mothers do not even notice her, especially if they have to lie under a dropper during contractions.

3. And another common phenomenon is weight loss before childbirth. Usually, expectant mothers lose up to 1 kilogram. This physiological weight loss is associated with ridding the body of excess fluid. You may notice that the swelling becomes less or disappears. Elastic bands of socks no longer leave marks after prolonged wear, and the wedding ring can be easily removed from the finger at the end of the day.

4. The abdomen drops. All 9 months, your uterus has been growing up and has already begun to support the ribs quite strongly, which made it impossible to sit for exactly more than a few minutes, breathe calmly. Heartburn is common. But shortly before childbirth, the presenting part of the fetus (most often the head) moves deeper into the pelvis, respectively, and the uterus drops slightly. The relatives of the expectant mother will easily notice these changes in her abdominal shape, and the woman herself will feel that it has become easier to breathe. Life is getting better! The gynecologist determines that the child has sunk deeper into the pelvis by palpating the presenting part. In the case of the head, it practically loses its mobility.

Prenatal medical procedures

Unfortunately, it is hardly possible to do without them. But take them as a necessity that will make the process of your child's birth more enjoyable and civilized, so to speak. What are these procedures?

1. Shave before childbirth - you should get rid of pubic and perineal hair. Of course, it is better to do it yourself, although this is not always convenient due to the large size of the abdomen. As a last resort, honey can also do this cosmetic procedure. sister upon your admission to the hospital. If you are shy, then take care of shaving in advance. By the way, it doesn't have to be just shaving. Many women get rid of hair in the bikini area with wax - the procedure is performed in the salon quickly and inexpensively. The main thing is to monitor sterility. But if you have never tried waxing before, this is not your choice. Since the painful sensations for the first time, until the skin gets used to this procedure, are quite pronounced.

2. Another not very pleasant, but not painful procedure is an enema before childbirth. Although they say that women are not “bullied” anywhere else abroad, but believe me, it is not only honey that is needed. to the staff, but also to you. In the second stage of childbirth, when attempts begin, and in the process of the child's passage through the birth canal, all the contents of your intestines will come out ... An enema before childbirth can be done at home, or you can entrust this very simple procedure to honey. sister in the hospital. Some women who have already gone through childbirth recommend that their pregnant girlfriends use glycerin-containing preparations instead of the "classic" enema. The most famous of them are microlax microclysters and glycerin suppositories. But at present, unfortunately, they are not on sale in Russia and it is not known when they will be. And the intestines cannot be cleaned well with glycerin alone.

Here are the basic things to know before giving birth. Good luck!

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From the middle of the third trimester, a woman begins to experience tension, which increases every day. The less time remains before meeting with the baby, the shorter the night's sleep becomes and the stronger the excitement. The state before childbirth changes due to physiological factors and depends on psychological readiness. A thorough study of the symptoms will allow the pregnant woman to seek medical attention in time and avoid complications.

The prenatal state of a woman before childbirth changes 10-14 days before the event. 70% note a change in the psychological state (excitement, anxiety) and appearance (posture, abdominal position). Other patients feel the harbingers only before the contractions, when the cervix begins to open.

After what time the labor begins, depends on the woman's behavior at the first precursors. Stimulation, in the form of active walking, massage, impact on the nipples, will bring the onset of contractions closer. But the norm for each case is individual.

The optimal period for resolving pregnancy is from 37 to 42 weeks. Babies born before this time are considered premature, later - overripe. 75% of births occur between 39 and 41 weeks. It has been noticed that boys are formed and are born earlier than girls.

Some babies, slowly developing in the second trimester, gain additional weight up to 1.5 kg in the last month before childbirth. Mom feels that her stomach has grown a lot, it has become more difficult.

The norm of obstetric pregnancy is 40 weeks. When calculating the PDR, the gynecologist focuses on this figure. But only 5% of babies are born according to the preliminary calculations of the doctor. The average error is 10-14 days.

Influencing factors:

1. menstrual cycle;
2. heredity;
3. during pregnancy.

A frequently used method for determining the PDD, when registering, is focusing on the menstrual cycle. On the Internet, it is easy and quick to independently calculate the time frame using special calculators.

How do you know when the labor will start in how many days? Given the known date of conception (N), the formula is used: N + 266 days = day of delivery. If ovulation (O) was tracked, the number is calculated: O +268 days. Or 280 days are added to the first day of menstruation.

In 7 out of 10 patients, the week of childbirth coincides with the periods of pregnancy resolution in the mother, grandmother. There are also overlaps in infant height and weight.

The course of pregnancy affects maturity, fetal behavior and the course of events in the future. Polyhydramnios, abnormal placenta previa, large fetus and chronic diseases can bring the date of delivery closer. For patients with a difficult pregnancy, excessive nervousness before childbirth is a factor that provokes the threat of miscarriage.

The physical state

More than half of women, even without PDD, feel an early meeting with a baby in advance. The well-being of a pregnant woman before childbirth is determined by hormonal changes, changes in the structure and behavior of tissues, which are expressed by specific symptoms.

Signs:

• braxtones;
• decrease in body weight;
• excretion of colostrum;
• prolapse of the abdomen;
• change in gait;
• frequent urination;
• defecation (upset stool);
• fetal movement;
• discharge.

Braxtons. From week 36 onwards, training contractions are normal. By the end of pregnancy, the body is dominated by the hormone estrogen, which softens the tissues of the uterus. Due to changes in the fibers, the walls stretch, pushing the fetus down, then relax. False contractions are painless and irregular.

Body mass. The weight of a pregnant woman is reduced by several kilograms 2 weeks before delivery. Edema goes away, as the concentration of progesterone, which retains fluid, decreases in the body. Due to hormonal changes and excitement, appetite disappears.

Colostrum. From the beginning of the third trimester, some pregnant women observe discharge from the areoles, in the form of a transparent white liquid. Appears more often with pressure, by the time of the onset of delivery, the color changes to white. Stimulating the nipples, with the appearance of colostrum, will increase lactation in the future.

Belly and gait. As the fetus moves towards the exit from the uterus, the center of gravity also changes. The spine has to bend back to support the weight, so the gait becomes "goose bumps".

Toilet calls. Frequent urination before childbirth is due to the pressure of the grown uterus on the bladder. Sometimes a woman urinates involuntarily without noticing it. Traces are found only on the gasket.

Estrogen, which softens the fibers of the uterus, also affects the intestinal wall. The pressure of the fetus makes you want to go to the toilet in large quantities, diarrhea begins, 3-4 times a day. The contraction of the weak (due to estrogen) walls of the organ also provokes gases in the intestines before childbirth.

Stirring. 7-10 days before delivery, fetal movements subside. The baby seems to freeze, accumulates energy to move along the birth canal. Due to the space and size of the fetus limited by the fetal bladder, the child is constrained in movements, but 1-2 times a day the woman feels a confident strong push.

Allocations. If mucus with a yellow tint appears on the gasket, the neck begins to open, the cervical plug comes off. Discharge of blood is abnormal, green, yellow, with an unpleasant odor, in the form of cottage cheese. In such a situation, hospitalization is required, due to the risk of infection of the fetus.

Weakness and malaise before childbirth usually goes away 3-4 days before the onset of labor. The woman feels a surge of energy, lightness, the feeling of heaviness in the abdomen disappears. Therefore, if there is no strength before childbirth, the wait seems prolonged, there are signs of depression, then there is at least a week before delivery. You need to be in the fresh air more often, to be distracted by knitting, reading detective stories.

Psychological condition

Against the background of hormonal changes, frequent changes and mood swings before childbirth are normal. But to exclude the development of phobias, psychological preparation is recommended from a period of 18-20 weeks.

What happens to a woman before childbirth:

1. nesting syndrome;
2. change of mood;
3. fear.

Nesting Syndrome. This psychological sign of childbirth is explained by excitement, the mother is agitated, the hormonal background is being rebuilt. Most of the time is occupied by worries about the arrangement of the home for the baby - the purchase of bed linen, sterilizers, hygiene items.

The woman changes the curtains, she wants the prevalence of bed tones, the smell of cleanliness, etc. The agitated psychological state of a woman before childbirth provokes behavior similar to the arrangement of a nest with a wild bird.

Changeable emotions. The main reason for the bad mood before childbirth and its swings is the high concentration of the female hormone. The maximum content is noted by the middle of the third trimester. Estrogen provokes tearfulness before childbirth, weakness, pity for yourself and others. But as soon as a woman looks at herself from a comfortable angle, another female reaction is triggered - narcissism, satisfaction, joy.

In both situations, estrogen enhances the brightness of emotion, which causes tears to appear, or vice versa, prolonged laughter, turning into hysteria. Mood swings and apathy before childbirth go away one week before the start of labor.

Fears. In 65% of cases, poor health before childbirth is caused by accumulated fear. The main reasons are the fear of pain, complications, death of the baby, disconnection from society. Often, anxiety before childbirth is caused by the fear of losing external attractiveness, being in demand from others. Such manifestations, without the intervention of a psychologist, develop into phobias, and entail severe depression.

To prevent hormonal changes from developing into depressive disorders, the pregnant woman is advised to walk more, consume joy carbohydrates (bananas, oatmeal, dark chocolate), do swimming, yoga and refuse forums. It is better to spend time preparing for each of the stages of delivery.

When to go to the hospital

A quick birth is considered to last from 1.5 hours. This amount of time is recommended by obstetricians to be guided by when going to the hospital, especially if the pregnancy is repeated.

What condition is observed in a pregnant woman before childbirth in a few hours:

• training fights;
• the cork will come off - a clot of mucus;
• there will be aching pains in the lower abdomen and lower back;
• the uterus will begin to contract, the true contraction increases from 10 seconds to 1-1.5 minutes;
• amniotic fluid is released by a stream.

In half of the cases, after false contractions, labor begins in 4-6 hours. In other situations, the break between the "braxtons" and the opening of the cervix lasts up to 2-3 weeks. During this time, you should prepare for each of the stages.

Things to do before giving birth:

1. breathing exercises;
2. Kegel exercises;
3. yoga classes, swimming;
4. stretching gymnastics.

Breathing techniques and exercises for the muscles of the vagina will help you to endure contractions more easily. In pushing, elastic muscles, plus proper behavior, will reduce the risk of rupture to a minimum. Need yoga classes before childbirth for psychological relief, training self-control, control over emotions. Blood circulation improves, oxygen supply to organs, mood rises.

There are proven signs by which an early meeting with a baby is determined. When one symptom appears, it is not recommended to further stimulate the process, everything should proceed naturally. Walking before childbirth brings the onset of labor closer, but this method is excluded for women in labor at risk of premature birth. Calmness and prudence are the key to a successful resolution of pregnancy.

For nine months, a woman is preparing for one of the main events of her life - the birth of a child. Although childbirth is a relatively short process, it takes a lot of time and effort. This is a very important and difficult stage for a woman, after which her life changes radically. Despite the fact that childbirth is a natural process, it is imperative to prepare for it. The prenatal or prenatal period is considered to be the last month of pregnancy. At this time, the woman's body is already attuned to childbirth, and the fetus is already fully formed and almost ready to leave the "house". Already a few weeks before giving birth, a woman changes in many ways: both psychologically and physically.

Way of life before childbirth

For a woman's good physical condition, so that the muscles are in, throughout pregnancy it is necessary to do, which are included in the gymnastic complexes developed for women "in position". Activities in the pool have a very beneficial effect on the physical condition.

Of course, we really hope that if you smoked before pregnancy, then upon learning about the baby, you immediately gave up this nasty habit. If (and it happens also!) Not, then find the strength in yourself. Both you and your baby need this. You must understand that smoking, like, is incompatible with the birth of a healthy child.

Relaxing, walking in the fresh air, doing gymnastics for pregnant women, reading good books - all this will ensure you not only a good pregnancy, but also an easy childbirth.

Health status before childbirth

It's no secret that a pregnant woman should carefully monitor her health. Check your health again before giving birth. It does not hurt to visit a therapist, ophthalmologist, ENT doctor, neurologist. Do not forget to go to the dentist, because bad teeth can become and cause complications in the postpartum period. If yours is severe, see a vascular surgeon. The doctor will determine if the condition has worsened and if a caesarean section is required. A month before giving birth, doctors recommend a complete sanitation of the birth canal. This is done to clean them from pathogenic microflora. This is especially true if a woman has sexually transmitted diseases (herpes, ureaplasmosis, mycoplasmosis, etc.). Such procedures are necessary in order to protect the baby during his passage through the birth canal. Also, sanitation will help protect the woman in labor from cracks in the vaginal mucosa, the occurrence of which is possible due to inflammation.

As for the gynecologist, starting from the 36th week, a woman must visit him once a week. At the appointment, the doctor measures the size of the uterus, listens to the fetal heartbeat, determines its position.

Nutrition before childbirth

If a pregnant woman needs to monitor the quantity and quality of food eaten for all nine months, then on the eve of childbirth, special attention should be paid to this issue in general.

A month before childbirth, nutrition does not change in favor of meat: its amount should be limited, and two to three weeks before it should be excluded altogether. It is also recommended to remove from the diet and others containing animal protein (fish, eggs, butter, milk). At the same time, fermented milk products, plant foods, cereals on the water, baked vegetables, fresh juices, mineral water, herbal teas are very useful.

A week before the expected birth, it is worth excluding cereals, bread, dairy products, salt. The diet should be only plant foods. It is very important that vegetable oil enter the body of a pregnant woman at this time. Vitamin E, contained in it, helps to make both blood vessels and tissues of the birth canal more elastic. It is also lovely.

On the day of childbirth, it is better not to eat anything at all, however, if the contractions have begun, then it is unlikely that you will have an appetite. Moreover, many people experience nausea or vomiting during labor, so an empty stomach is very good in this case.

Weight before childbirth

The optimal weight gain for the entire pregnancy is between 9 and 13 kg. This figure includes the weight of the fetus, amniotic fluid, uterus, placenta, breast. Of course, everything is very individual, and gaining 15 kg is not at all a problem. But you should be on your guard if the weight has increased by 20 or more kg. In this case, the doctor prescribes a diet for the woman. After all, a large weight gain can significantly complicate the birth process.

An interesting fact: as a rule, before childbirth, approximately in the last two weeks, women experience a weight loss (on average, by 2 kg). Experts attribute this to the loss of a large amount of fluid.

Sleep before childbirth

The closer the moment of birth, the more the pregnant woman tends to sleep. Thus, the body is trying to sleep off and gain strength before heavy physical work. That is why proper sleep in preparation for childbirth is very important. At this time, you need to sleep as much as you want, but not less than 8-10 hours. A pregnant woman should sleep in a well-ventilated room. It is even possible with an open window. It is important for a woman to feel that she has rested and slept, because very soon she will hardly be able to soak up the extra couple of hours in bed.

Fear of childbirth

Fear arises in a pregnant woman throughout the nine months. But, the closer the birth, the stronger the fear of them. A woman, especially a primiparous woman, asks a number of questions: How will the birth go? Will it hurt? Will the child get hurt? How can complications be avoided? These and many other questions prevent a woman from sleeping peacefully. The situation is significantly aggravated by the stories of "well-wishers" about difficulties, difficult personal experiences, labor pains, negative postpartum consequences, and fatal childbirth. Believe me, this is not at all the information that a pregnant woman should be interested in, preparing to become a mother. If you have not attended a pregnancy course before, do so now. Many maternity schools offer prenatal express courses. In these classes, a woman is explained a lot: the mechanism of childbirth, ways to relieve pain, breathing techniques are taught. All this knowledge is very helpful during childbirth. Moreover, it is quite natural: the more a woman knows, the less she is afraid. If it is not possible to attend courses, special literature will come to the rescue, as well as Internet pages.

Most importantly, you must understand: fear of childbirth negatively affects the course of the birth itself, constraining, squeezing muscles, forcing the tissues to lose their elasticity. All this leads to pain, cracks,. It turns out that the more a woman is afraid, the more she feels the pain. Pain breeds fear - and so on in a circle. To break out of it, a pregnant woman must learn to relax long before childbirth, and when the time comes, calmly apply the acquired knowledge.

Psychological mood before childbirth

The mood should be fighting. Of course, in the best sense of the word. We do not mean an aggressive pregnant woman, but one that is firmly convinced of a favorable outcome both for the baby and for herself. A woman should understand that childbirth is a step towards her own little man, who from now on will become for her the greatest jewel in the world. A pregnant woman must be sure that the birth will go well, because she loves her baby very much and is ready to do everything possible to help him to be born healthy.

Harbingers of childbirth

As the day of birth approaches, certain signs may appear that indicate that labor is about to occur. For example, it becomes easier for a woman to breathe, pressure is relieved from the diaphragm and stomach, as the child goes down. At the same time, it becomes a little more difficult to sit and walk. Before childbirth, urination also increases (pressure on the bladder increases) and bowel movements (hormones of childbirth affect the intestines). There are pains in the lower back. A woman has an unexpected change in mood and state: she is tired and passive, then energetic and “subversive”. Many can no longer wait for "this" to happen. 2-3 weeks before giving birth, pregnant women show the nesting instinct. It is called so because a woman equips a "nest" - now it is very important for her to make her own home cozy. She is ready for hours to clean, wash, clean, tinker. All this, of course, is good. Only in moderation. Remember that it is contraindicated for you to overexert yourself now.

Naturally, one of the most obvious signs that labor is near is the irregular contractions of the uterus. Thus, exercising, the body prepares up to the "X" hour. One to two weeks, or even several days before childbirth, the woman loses a mucous plug, which closes the cervical canal throughout pregnancy. it can be yellowish or slightly pinkish, or it can be completely colorless. Sometimes a woman clearly sees that the plug has come off her, and in some cases it happens unnoticed. A woman who is expecting childbirth from day to day should know that her amniotic fluid can leave at any time. This is a clear sign that labor has begun. In this case, not a minute can be lost. Call an ambulance urgently or go to the hospital by car (of course, as a passenger and not at all while driving).

Specially for- Olga Pavlova