What are the dangers of having a baby at 8 months? Eighth month of pregnancy: development, sensations, sex, premature birth and other features

Premature babies are often born. Childbirth at 8 months of pregnancy is too dangerous for both mother and child due to the risk of ruptures due to malpresentation, hypoxia, and an undeveloped fetal system. It is important to prevent premature delivery.

Possible complications

Women begin to feel contractions at 8 months of pregnancy. For some, these are training cramps, while for others they become a sign of the onset of labor. It is advisable that at this moment the expectant mother is in the hospital, as there is a risk of the baby being born quickly.

Is it possible to give birth at 8 months of pregnancy? At this stage, birth is considered premature; the child’s body has not yet fully formed. It is not advisable to give birth to a child prematurely, as this will lead to complications.

Why you can’t give birth at 8 months of pregnancy:

  1. the respiratory system is not fully formed;
  2. weak blood vessels and soft bones of the fetus;
  3. incorrect presentation;
  4. risk of hypoxia.

In the last weeks, the respiratory system finishes forming. If a baby is born at 8 months of pregnancy, the alveoli do not yet produce surfactan, which makes the lungs mature. Therefore, the baby will need an artificial respiration apparatus.

The newborn’s body begins to take the correct position closer to the time set by nature, so at 8 months the fetus is still in a breech or transverse presentation. If labor begins prematurely, it will be very painful and end in the death of the fetus. In such cases, there is not always time to perform a caesarean section.

Even if the child enters the birth canal head first, injuries cannot be avoided. The cervix is ​​still closed, and this will provoke deformations of the skull and other parts of the skeleton. There is a possibility of hemorrhage in the brain from burst vessels. Due to active contractions of the uterus, the supply of oxygen stops, causing hypoxia to develop. These problems at the birth of an eight-month-old child will negatively affect subsequent development. To avoid this, the hospital takes measures to carefully conduct childbirth.

Childbirth in the eighth month of pregnancy is not without consequences for the mother. A woman experiences ruptures in the birth canal and perineum.

After premature birth, hormonal levels are disrupted, there is a possibility of uterine bleeding and subsequent disruption of the menstrual cycle. The discharge of amniotic fluid leads to infection entering the uterus, which causes the development of endometritis.

Causes of premature birth

The birth of a child at 8 months is provoked by factors related to physiology and health. Gynecological infections and intrauterine interventions make the cervix incompetent for bearing a large fetus. Anomalies are also caused by defects such as bicornuate or intrauterine septum.

Causes of early birth

  • cervical incompetence;
  • malformations of the genital organs;
  • fibroids;
  • diseases;
  • gestosis;
  • Rh factor;
  • multiple births;
  • pathologies in fetal development.

If a woman developed fibroids before pregnancy, this will cause improper placement of the placenta, which will also lead to premature birth. Neurology, endocrinology, hypertension, heart defects are risk factors when carrying a baby.

Dropsy in the last trimester of pregnancy is an alarming symptom that leads to preeclampsia. Kidney function is impaired, causing a sharp rise in blood pressure, and premature birth begins. Most often this occurs during multiple pregnancies.

Rh conflict, chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, infection in the womb and developmental pathologies not only provoke the birth of a baby ahead of schedule, but are also a reason to terminate the pregnancy. There is a very high risk of stillbirth.

How to induce premature labor at 8 months:

  1. prostaglandin is prescribed;
  2. perform a medical abortion with Mifegin;
  3. pour a saline solution into the amniotic fluid;
  4. open the amniotic sac.

The last method of arranging artificial birth at 8 months is used in extreme cases when there are contraindications to other methods. Medical abortion and the use of hormonal drugs kill the fetus, but after saline filling there is a risk of giving birth to a viable baby with developmental disabilities.

Prevention measures

It’s bad to give birth at 8 months, so every obstetrician tries to bring the pregnant woman to her due date. With the help of sedatives, they relieve the excitability of the uterus and suppress contractile activity. By acting on the receptors with tocolytics, the uterus relaxes. To exclude infectious complications, antibacterial therapy is used.

If the waters break during the 8th month of pregnancy, labor can still be suspended, but for this the woman is placed in a hospital. The mother is prescribed bed rest and 24-hour monitoring of the condition of the fetus.

If the expectant mother has a negative Rh factor, then in the last trimester of pregnancy it is better to abandon the home regime and go to the hospital for conservation to eliminate the threat of premature birth. This also applies to women who become pregnant through IVF. In this case, there is a risk of developing multiple births.

If the cervix is ​​incompetent, prophylactic cerclage (application of holding sutures) is used. If the ultrasound shows a problem, the procedure is performed transvaginally. The sutures are removed before the baby is born.

The second way to slow birth is to use a pessary. The product closes the cervical pharynx, causing a redistribution of the pressure exerted by the fertilized egg.

The normal course of pregnancy also depends on the woman herself. An unhealthy lifestyle, bad habits, depression and negative outbursts of emotions can provoke the threat of early childbirth.
A pregnant woman should not lift heavy objects and minimize travel on public transport. If there is a clear predisposition to early childbirth from the eighth month, it is better to exclude intimacy with a sexual partner.

Behavior during childbirth

If, despite all precautions, labor begins in the 8th month, there is no need to panic, but you should immediately call an ambulance. It is recommended to lie on your side, taking a sedative (motherwort or valerian), as well as 2-3 tablets of No-shpa.

As soon as a pregnant woman with a threat enters the prenatal center, it is determined at what stage the process is. If symptoms indicate that it is no longer possible to stop labor, the woman is sent to the delivery room.

A pregnant woman is given a drip with medicinal solutions to normalize blood circulation in the placenta. If necessary, tablets are also given. Dexamethasone is indicated to calm the baby's pulmonary system.

Obstetricians act quickly, since premature birth occurs more quickly than planned due to the smaller size of the fetus. The expectant mother should help the medical staff with her behavior. If a woman panics too much, the uterus will become toned and complicate childbirth.

The midwife will try to ensure that the baby is born alive and naturally. A prerequisite is a dissection of the perineum in order to reduce the degree of pressure on the bones of the newborn baby. Caesarean section is considered the most extreme method when the life of mother and child is at risk.

The first days after birth

Premature babies are received in warm diapers and resuscitation measures are immediately carried out. For such babies, there is a specialized department equipped with equipment in the maternity hospital. The child is connected to life support machines.

In the first days (and sometimes weeks), a premature newborn is kept in an incubator, which is an imitation of the mother's womb. If the baby is moderately premature, a heated table is used.

Humidity and temperature conditions are created in the incubator. Sensors for measuring indicators are connected to the baby, which provides round-the-clock monitoring of the newborn’s well-being.

All medicinal manipulations, as well as feeding, are carried out through a window in the incubator. Bathing is excluded at this stage; the baby’s body is wiped daily with damp disinfectant swabs.

The babies are taken out of the incubator when the weight reaches more than one and a half kilograms. The room continues to maintain optimal air temperature. Periodically, the newborn is allowed to breathe humidified oxygen.

To eliminate attacks of asphyxia and breathing disorders, systematically change the position of the baby in the crib. In this case, the headboard should be slightly raised.

A premature baby is discharged from the maternity hospital, if he is healthy, no earlier than after 2 weeks after birth. The indication for this is the baby’s weight; it should be at least 2200 g with an increasing tendency. At home, the mother strictly monitors the child’s weight gain to prevent the development of anemia.
Children born at 8 months have developmental disabilities. Children show signs of underdevelopment of the central nervous system, blood vessels, and digestion. The respiratory system is imperfect, accompanied by periodic apnea, which leads to pneumonia.

Increased permeability of the vascular walls leads to impaired blood circulation. Sometimes there is a cerebral hemorrhage. Premature babies lack swallowing and sucking reflexes and have reduced tolerance for food. The immune system is not strong enough, the body's resistance is reduced. The newborn has a hard time suffering from infectious diseases and is predisposed to rickets.

If a child was born at 8 months old and has complications, parents will have to prepare themselves for the hard work of raising the baby. Such a child is given more time, since his physical and mental development slows down.

When a woman was unable to complete the entire pregnancy and the baby was born at eight months, there is no need to worry ahead of time. If the birth took place in compliance with the rules and there were no complications, the newborn is quite viable, but will be weaker than other children and more often susceptible to illness.

The 8th month of pregnancy is the penultimate month of bearing a child. Fatigue becomes more and more noticeable, and the excitement before childbirth increases every day.

closeness how you feel
By the eighth month, sexual infection neatness
the discomfort drags heavily
lying down


Let's look at which week the 8th month of pregnancy begins, what changes are happening now, and what the expectant mother should do while expecting her baby.

Feelings of the expectant mother

Speaking about what kind of period this is - 8 months of pregnancy and how many weeks it lasts, it can be noted that it begins at 32 weeks and ends at 36. The woman manages to experience all the difficulties and delights of late pregnancy, all her thoughts are occupied only with the upcoming childbirth and the future child.

At the 8th month of pregnancy, it is difficult for a woman to lead her usual lifestyle:

  • she has difficulty walking, breathing, and doing housework;
  • The biggest inconvenience is the huge belly, which is becoming increasingly difficult to carry;
  • shortness of breath appears due to the stomach, and heartburn occurs more and more often;
  • the child is already quite large, all his shocks are felt quite clearly and can be quite painful;
  • Due to pressure on the bladder, the urge to urinate becomes very frequent.

You can see what the belly looks like at 8 months of gestation in the photograph.

Due to the increase in size, the expectant mother has problems walking and breathing

The body gradually begins to prepare for childbirth - at the 8th month of pregnancy, so-called training contractions or Braxton-Hicks contractions often appear. Such contractions are almost completely painless; they represent short-term contractions of the uterus, which the woman feels as an increase in tone.

They differ from real ones in that they are not regular and do not intensify over time. In addition, the pelvic floor also begins to prepare for the birth process: the joints gradually move apart, and the ligaments relax - all this happens so that the baby can easily pass through the birth canal.

What can you do?

Many people are interested in what can and cannot be done in the 8th month of pregnancy. Experts usually give such recommendations.

What to do for an expectant motherWhat an expectant mother should not do
  1. Take care of your physical fitness, perform special exercises for pregnant women in the 3rd trimester. Of course, this can only be done after consulting a doctor, do not overexert yourself, and if you experience any unpleasant sensations, stop training. Correctly performed exercises will help you prepare for childbirth, relax, relieve stress on the spine, improve blood circulation, and also improve your mood.
  2. Take a walk in the fresh air every day - the longer the walk, the better. However, you need to remember that the term is already long, and theoretically, labor can begin at any moment, so it is better not to go far from home and walk accompanied by your husband or girlfriends. Be sure to take care of comfortable shoes, wear a prenatal bandage for a walk, and, if necessary, special compression garments that will protect against varicose veins.
  3. Prepare for childbirth. If you haven't attended a maternity class yet, it's time to go during the 8th month of pregnancy. In addition, the videos will help you learn how to breathe correctly during childbirth and give you an idea about this process. If you are planning a partner birth, then be sure to prepare together with your husband.
  1. Travel by plane unless absolutely necessary. Increased stress can cause premature birth or adversely affect the well-being of mother and baby. Some airlines do not sell tickets to women with long travel dates because they do not want to take responsibility for the woman’s health. If you need to fly, you will need a certificate from a gynecologist indicating the stage of pregnancy and permission to fly. It is not recommended to fly unaccompanied.
  2. Visit a bathhouse or sauna. This can lead to premature birth due to a possible sudden change in pressure. In addition, bath procedures can harm a woman’s internal organs, such as the heart, liver, and lungs. The body is already greatly weakened during pregnancy, so a heavy load on the organs and circulatory system can lead to negative consequences.
  3. Overeat. Some women take the phrase “eating for two” literally, which is why they stop controlling the amount of food they eat. This can not only lead to digestive problems, but also cause sudden weight gain, which is considered dangerous for mother and baby. At this time, it is permissible to gain 300-400 grams per week.

What happens to the child?

At 8 months of pregnancy, the child’s development enters the final stage. It is already sufficiently formed that in case of premature birth it does not require special efforts to survive.

Typically, children born at this stage can already breathe, suck the breast, their weight is 2-2.7 kg, and their height is 44-46 cm. A child born at 8 months of pregnancy, shown in the photograph, is no different from other newborns .

From the 32nd to the 36th week of intrauterine life, the following changes will occur to the baby.

  1. If before this period the fetus was lying incorrectly, during this period it will most likely take the desired “head” position.
  2. He gains weight and height every day - in a month the baby can gain up to one kilogram.
  3. The baby is becoming more and more cramped in the mother’s belly, so his movements become less sharp and more like stretching or rolling.
  4. His breathing, swallowing and sucking reflexes are already fully developed, he sucks his thumb most of the time, and from time to time you can hear the baby hiccuping after swallowing amniotic fluid.
  5. All his organs have already been formed, and now the final “finishing” of the nervous, endocrine and immune systems is underway.
  6. The fetus in the womb is already able to respond to strong stimuli, such as bright light or loud sound.
  7. The lungs are sufficiently developed, they have accumulated a sufficient amount of sufractant so that the newborn, if necessary, can breathe on his own.

The child already hears well during the 8th month of pregnancy, so now it is very useful to talk with the baby, as well as turn on pleasant, calm music for him - this has a beneficial effect on his well-being and nervous system.

Sexual relations - is it possible?

In order to be completely sure about the possibility of intimate intimacy, consult your gynecologist

In most cases, modern doctors believe that a woman can have sex without fear during the 8th month of pregnancy. However, this rule only works if the pregnancy proceeds without complications. Whether intimate intimacy is acceptable in your case - only your gynecologist can reliably answer.

Typically, you should not have sex during the 8th month of pregnancy if:

  • multiple pregnancy;
  • with increased uterine tone;
  • if placenta previa is observed;
  • You should also refrain from this activity if you have experienced miscarriages or premature birth in the past.

If there are no contraindications, you can easily afford to make love at this time. Relieving sexual tension will help you relax, improve your mood, and the joy hormones that are produced during physical intimacy are beneficial for the health of mother and child. Try to choose the most comfortable positions that will not cause discomfort to either you or your pregnant belly.

Painful sensations in the abdomen

If you feel that labor is starting, call a doctor

Childbirth may well begin in the 8th month of pregnancy, so expectant mothers listen very carefully to all the signals of their body, and often fall into real panic at the slightest pain in the abdomen. However, painful sensations do not always indicate the onset of contractions.

The stomach can hurt for many different reasons:

  • tension in ligaments and abdominal muscles due to a growing belly;
  • gastrointestinal problems - a growing fetus can interfere with intestinal function, which causes pain;
  • preparation of the uterus for the process of childbirth is accompanied by tension and mild pain in the lower abdomen;
  • increased uterine tone. The pain lasts for a long time, does not go away in a lying position and after taking no-shpa. In this case, you need to consult a doctor;
  • if the stomach has already dropped, pain may occur due to the pressure of the head on the joints of the small pelvis.

By the eighth month, the fetus is too large and does not fit on the device monitor

In the 8th month of a singleton pregnancy, labor should not begin. However, if you feel severe, periodic abdominal pain with increasing intensity, do not hesitate and call a doctor.

What will the ultrasound show?

At the 8th month of pregnancy, the third and last planned ultrasound is performed. It is usually done at 32-34 weeks. During this test, doctors will evaluate the condition of the placenta and the physical condition of the fetus:

  • first of all, the specialist will measure all the physical indicators of the child: his height, circumference of the head, tummy, length of the femur;
  • all measurements are compared with accepted standards to determine whether the baby’s development level corresponds to the gestational age;
  • In addition, the doctor will examine the condition of the internal organs of the fetus to identify possible malformations even before its birth.

At 8 months of pregnancy, in a photograph of the fetus, you will be able to see in detail the different parts of your baby's body. It is already too large to fit entirely on the device’s monitor, but you will be able to see in detail the tiny arms, legs or face with a small nose and mouth.

However, the main purpose of the third ultrasound examination is to assess the condition of the placenta. The thickness of the placenta, its location, degree of maturity and the condition of the vessels in the umbilical cord are determined. These parameters are important for drawing up a plan for the management of childbirth, as well as for assessing the risks for the child, because premature aging of the child’s place or its pathology can lead to hypoxia and death of the baby.

What does the discharge mean?

If a sexually transmitted infection occurs, be sure to consult a gynecologist.

Discharge in the 8th calendar month of pregnancy is moderate. They are uniform, light white in color with a slightly sour odor. The presence of pus, foam, and cheesy clots in the discharge requires a mandatory visit to a doctor, since these symptoms indicate a sexually transmitted infection. In the later stages, such diseases must be treated, otherwise there is a risk of infecting the child during childbirth.

  1. If you notice mucous discharge streaked with blood, then it is likely that your mucus plug, which protects the entrance to the uterus, is coming off. This indicates the imminent onset of labor.
  2. The most dangerous is bloody discharge - it usually accompanies placental abruption. This is an extremely dangerous pathology that can threaten the life of the mother and fetus. In such cases, you should immediately call an ambulance.

The 8th month of pregnancy will fly by very quickly, and you will be very close to the final stage of pregnancy. Spend this time profitably and try to take care of your health. Don't forget that your baby's health directly depends on this.

: Borovikova Olga

gynecologist, ultrasound doctor, geneticist

The third trimester is the finish line on the horizon. What's new and interesting in this period? What surprises does the 8th month of pregnancy hold?

8 months is how many weeks of pregnancy?

The eighth month of pregnancy is the equator of the third trimester. The belly of mothers is growing every day and the “belly” in it leads a rather cheerful, active life. More and more often, women are visited by thoughts about the upcoming birth, about the list of things needed in the maternity hospital, and the days are counted for such an important moment - the birth of a baby.

How much time is left until “rush hour” and 8 months – what weeks of pregnancy are these? Actually, counting weeks during pregnancy is a little confusing. Gynecologists keep track of months, obstetric and calendar weeks. So, 8 months pregnancy is:

  1. according to obstetric calculations, 29-32 weeks;
  2. ordinary calendar account – 32-36 weeks.

Sex at 8 months pregnant: taboo or norm

Passionate sex at 8 months pregnant is more of a fantasy. Because a grown, rounded tummy will not allow you to maintain a dynamic rhythm and take the “Zu” pose. But this does not mean that sexual activity in the eighth month of pregnancy, and in general, during the period of bearing a child, is taboo. On the contrary, many modern doctors recommend and even insist on having sex during pregnancy, if sexual intercourse is not contraindicated and does not threaten the baby’s life. This issue should be discussed without hesitation with the gynecologist supervising your pregnancy, so to speak, dot all the i’s.

There are no contraindications for sexual intercourse - let’s decide on the positions allowed in the third trimester. Naturally, the Kama Sutra should not be reproduced in its entirety, but here are a few interesting provisions that are permitted during this period of pregnancy that are worth borrowing. The basic rule for women in the third trimester during sex is no pressure on the stomach.

So, what sex positions are acceptable during pregnancy at 8 months:

  1. When a man is on his side from behind - the “Picnic” pose. This position during sex allows a woman to relax and not panic about the pressure on her stomach. In this position, a man is physiologically unable to press down on a woman and penetrate her deeply.
  2. When a woman is on top - the “Cowgirl” pose in all variations. This position during sex helps a woman independently control the depth of penetration of the male organ into herself.
  3. Masturbation and oral sex during the 8th month of pregnancy are also acceptable.
During multiple pregnancies, doctors still do not recommend being sexually active, citing the risk of premature birth. Although hugs and kisses are allowed.

Premature birth in the eighth month of pregnancy: consequences, dangers

The eighth month of pregnancy, according to obstetric calculations, is 29-32 weeks. The baby in the mother's womb is not yet fully mature, so birth at 8 months is considered premature.

You can often hear that babies born in the eighth month of pregnancy often do not survive. This is actually a myth. All important vital functions and organs are developed in such children. Eight-month-old babies can breathe independently, open their eyes, see, and hear. Internal organs are also fully functional.

Naturally, in terms of physical indicators, they are weaker than children born at term. But timely medical assistance and special care give babies every chance of survival.

Child development at 8 months of pregnancy

At 8 months old, the baby has grown significantly and his mother’s tummy is a little cramped. But this does not stop the baby from being active. The limit of space in the belly only gives it the warmth of mother's love and a sense of security.

As an ultrasound shows, in the eighth month (until the end of the 36th week), the child’s height is 46 cm, weight ranges from 2 to 3 kilograms. The normal heart rate per minute is 140-160 beats. Now he drinks up to 3 liters of amniotic fluid per day and practices urination. As a rule, the baby has already chosen a position that is comfortable for him and will remain in that position until labor begins.

If you put your hand on your tummy, the baby will certainly begin to move, greeting you. During this period, psychologists recommend actively reading to the baby, listening to calm, pleasant music, and, of course, talking.

A baby at 8 months of pregnancy is not yet ready to be born, but in the event of premature birth, the baby’s body steadily adapts to the external environment.

Is it possible to fly while 8 months pregnant?

During pregnancy, some women, fearing harm to the unborn child, stop maintaining an active image and take the sloth pose in front of the TV. Doctors strongly recommend discarding unnecessary stereotypes and continuing to take care of your physical and mental health.

What to do if a girl is overactive and is used to traveling, conquering mountain peaks, and even being in the last months of pregnancy cannot deny herself the opportunity to soak up the sea? Is it even possible to fly while 8 months pregnant?

The last trimester of pregnancy, as experts explain, is not the best time for travel and flights in general. During this period, premature birth may begin, pressure changes may occur during air travel, and a lack of air in the cabin can lead to oxygen starvation of the child. In addition, a very rounded tummy and a broadened pelvis may not fit in an airplane seat.

If you still have to travel in the eighth month, you must definitely take a certificate from your gynecologist about your health status and permission to fly. Don't forget the "Exchange Card".

Not all airlines “take on board” pregnant women. Guided by the rules for transporting passengers, carriers may refuse a flight if:

  • pregnancy exceeds 35 weeks;
  • in case of multiple pregnancy more than 32 weeks;
  • if a pregnant woman has not provided the necessary documents from the leading gynecologist.
The most favorable time for travel is considered to be the second trimester from 14 to 28 weeks. It is during this period that you need to relax as much as possible and mentally prepare for the upcoming birth.

Discharge at 8 months of pregnancy

Vaginal discharge in women is normal. Nature created them to moisturize and cleanse the vagina. In women, white discharge during the 8th month of pregnancy may be more abundant than usual. They have a characteristic slightly sour smell and milky color.

If you notice discharge with a green or gray tint, mixed with pus or mucus, you should immediately consult a doctor. This change in leucorrhoea indicates the presence of infection.

Brown or bloody discharge in women in the eighth month of pregnancy indicates serious problems with the placenta: its detachment or previa. This situation cannot be avoided without medical intervention.

It is necessary to pay attention to the appearance of watery discharge. If this has been noticed, it means amniotic fluid is leaking, which indicates “aging” of the membranes.

How to sleep when 8 months pregnant

Sound sleep is the key to health. Unfortunately, you cannot call sound sleep at 8 months of pregnancy. Rather, intermittent. Expectant mothers are worried about everything: frequent urination, activity of the “belly”, back pain, increased anxiety, rapid heartbeat, nervousness. Insomnia in the eighth month is common.

To combat insomnia, you first need to choose a comfortable sleeping position. The position loved by many, lying on the stomach or on the back, will have to be changed to “side” in the last trimester. Due to your voluminous belly, you simply won’t be able to lie on it. In addition, lying on the belly, there is a possibility of crushing and injuring the baby with your weight.

Sleeping on your back in the eighth month is fraught with fetal pressure on the lower back and vena cava. This interferes with the full flow of blood, resulting in less oxygen being supplied to the child. You should pay attention if the baby is very active, it is likely that he is not receiving the proper amount of oxygen.
You need to sleep on your side. Preferably left. This is the safest sleeping position for pregnant women. Lying on your side, you do not interfere with blood circulation, which means you enrich the body with oxygen.

For a more comfortable and sweet sleep, pregnant women use special pillows.

Belly at the eighth month

As the fetus grows, the size of the mother's tummy increases. So, being in the 30th week of pregnancy, it becomes increasingly difficult for a woman to get up and put on her shoes on her own. At this stage, the abdominal muscles are stretched like a string, so sudden movements should be avoided and everything should be done smoothly.

Some women may develop white cobwebs - stretch marks - on the skin in the abdomen. To level them out after childbirth, experts recommend using special creams or natural olive oil during pregnancy itself.

Often during this period, the lower abdomen hurts or pulls, or it becomes hard. Doctors explain that in the third trimester, at 8 months of pregnancy, the uterus sometimes begins to contract – these are Bregston-Higgs training contractions. However, if contractions are frequent and even, coupled with bloody or watery discharge, premature labor is likely to have begun. An ambulance should be called immediately.

Cold in the eighth month

No matter how careful a woman is while carrying a child, there is still a chance of catching the virus. If you get an ARVI in the first trimester, it means you are at risk, then a cold in the 8th month of pregnancy is less dangerous for the development of the baby. The unborn child is protected by the placenta and amniotic fluid, which guarantees that various viruses will not penetrate to the baby.

But there is still a risk. Over time, the placenta wears out and its protective barrier weakens. This means that when treating a cold at 8 months, the child, feeding on amniotic fluid, receives components of drugs and toxins.

During pregnancy, elevated body temperature is normal. However, in case of a cold or heat above 38 degrees, it is necessary to bring it down. Don't immediately rush to paracetamol. You need to resort to folk remedies:

  • raspberry, sea buckthorn tea;
  • warm milk with honey;
  • dried fruits compote;
  • infusions of rose hips and linden.
It is very important not to use “grandmother’s” methods: hovering your legs and placing cans. These manipulations are fraught with premature birth.

If a runny nose occurs during the 8th month of pregnancy, doctors recommend using a saline solution, or “homemade” aloe drops. In case of cough, use a nebulizer using soda solution or Borjomi.

If you cannot do without medications, use homeopathic remedies. Be sure to consult your doctor.

Healthy eating during the eighth month of pregnancy

The taste preferences of each individual pregnant woman are different. Some people eat herring with jam, others eat pickles with honey. There are no dietary restrictions during the 8th month of pregnancy. As long as the girls' diet is complete, rich in vitamins and does not harm the baby.

Fasting days at the end of the last trimester are recommended and encouraged. Naturally, only with the consent of the doctor and no more than once a week. During the day you need to drink 1% kefir or eat apples (can be baked in the oven).

A diet in the eighth month of pregnancy is useful for women who have overweighted a little. Flour products, fresh baked goods, sweets, high-calorie foods, fried and spicy foods should be excluded from the diet. Focus on vegetables and fruits, steamed food.

Is nausea possible at 8 months of pregnancy?

Nausea in the 8th month of pregnancy, accompanied by vomiting, is a very unpleasant surprise for a woman. The fetus puts pressure on the mother's abdominal cavity (especially the liver), causing heartburn and nausea. For heartburn, doctors recommend taking Mezim, Rennie or Hofitol.

Some girls experience late toxicosis in the eighth month of pregnancy (preeclampsia). This malaise is caused by oxygen deficiency and high blood pressure. As a rule, late-stage toxicosis occurs in women under 18 and over 35 years of age.

If nausea and vomiting are accompanied by symptoms such as loose stools and dizziness, you should immediately seek medical help - there is a risk of nausea.

What happens to a woman in the eighth month of pregnancy?

In the middle of the third trimester, the uterus increases several times. The fetus becomes much stronger and puts more pressure on the abdominal organs, especially the liver. Therefore, heartburn at 8 months of pregnancy becomes commonplace for many women. For severe heartburn, doctors recommend taking special medications or introducing pumpkin/sunflower seeds into your diet.

Sometimes pregnant women experience shortness of breath. This is explained by the fact that an already grown child does not allow the lungs to fully expand when inhaling. At 9 months the fetus will descend and breathing will become easier.

During pregnancy, swelling is observed in most women. This trend is also typical at 8 months of pregnancy. Due to the weak removal of urea from the body, women in this position swell their fingers, toes, and legs, and swelling of the face is visible. You can get rid of puffiness by drinking diuretic herbs: hawthorn, rose hips, kidney tea.

Due to hormonal changes, a woman's breasts become sensitive and swell. Breasts also increase in volume during the 8th month of pregnancy. During this period, mothers may produce colostrum.

Do's and don'ts during the eighth month of pregnancy

As popular wisdom says: pregnant women cannot be refused. But using your position is also not always wise. It is unacceptable for pregnant women to drink alcoholic beverages; even beer is not recommended during the 8th month of pregnancy. Naturally, smoking is also prohibited.

On the eve of childbirth, you need to get yourself in order. If necessary, visit the dentist and have your teeth treated, visit a beauty salon. It is possible and even useful to attend preparatory courses for expectant mothers, sign up for yoga, or go to the pool. Treat yourself to a memorable photo shoot. After all, time will pass, but the memories are eternal!

Pregnancy is not only about a growing belly and pleasant movements in it. To be in a position means to change both externally and internally. So, sometimes a frivolous, easy-going girl becomes a serious, responsible mother, or a joyful mood suddenly changes to a “tearful” one.

It is very important during pregnancy, especially in the last months, to remain mentally stable, not to succumb to external stimuli, to say “no” to depression and to enjoy your wonderful state.

This means that very soon you will have the main meeting in your life - meeting your child! Which means we can overcome everything! The main thing is positive emotions and no stress...

8 months pregnant. What happens in the body of the expectant mother?

This month you are growing in size quite quickly. Now the uterus has risen to the ribs, and it seems that there is not enough air, and the baby is literally beating his legs under your heart. During this month, the fundus of the uterus (its apex) will rise above the pubic joint by 38-40 cm and take its highest possible position.

You shouldn’t compare your belly with the bellies of your “comrades” in expectation. After all, there are no identical bellies, just as there are no women with the same figures. The shape and size of the abdomen during pregnancy depends on many reasons, and the size of the child is not decisive. Only a doctor can give an appropriate assessment of the development and condition of your baby based on both direct measurements of the abdomen and pelvis, as well as data from a vaginal examination and ultrasound.

Your weight continues to increase. Weight increases by an average of 300-400 g per week. If the increase in a week is more than 500 g, then this may be due to hidden swelling, it is better to consult a doctor: perhaps the doctor will prescribe fasting days. On average, by the end of the eighth month you can gain 8-13 kg, depending on your initial weight - the lower your weight before pregnancy, the more you can gain.

Some women notice another not very pleasant phenomenon that accompanies late pregnancy. Hormonal levels contribute to an increase in the amount of hair on the skin. Pregnant women lose significantly less hair than new hair grows, but in normal conditions these processes are synchronous. After childbirth, on the contrary, the “extra” hair will fall out faster and you may be concerned about the amount of hair remaining on the comb. But don’t be afraid, these are all natural processes.

8 months pregnant.future child

The baby is gaining weight every day, and his uterus is already cramped. Therefore, his movements are now not as intense as before, and are more like rolling and stretching. Sometimes you may experience discomfort when your baby moves, especially in the hypochondrium. By this time, most children are already turning head down. During examination, the doctor will easily determine this point.

The finishing touches remain on the development of your baby's organs. The shoulders acquire an infantile roundness, thick cheeks have appeared, the face has become smooth - there is a predominant accumulation of fatty tissue. On the fingers the nails have reached the edge of the nail phalanx, but on the toes they have not yet reached. The layer of lubricant covering the baby has become even more abundant, and the germinal fluff (lanugo) is gradually disappearing. The cartilage of the nose and ears becomes harder.

The child already knows a lot, he has mastered breathing, sucking and swallowing movements, sleeps a lot and probably dreams, in any case, his pupils move during sleep in a manner characteristic of REM sleep. Now a great many nerve connections are being formed between brain cells, and the nervous system is actively developing.

The bones of the baby’s skull are quite soft: as it passes through the birth canal, the head will decrease in size (one might say, it will flatten a little). Iron accumulates in the fetal liver, which will participate in hematopoiesis in the first year of life. The adrenal glands reach their maximum development; their size is the same in an eight-month fetus and an adult, and they produce ten times more hormones than the adrenal glands of an adult. After birth, the size of the adrenal glands will decrease significantly. The boys' testicles were clearly visible.

At this stage, the lungs are fully developed, the level of surfactant - the substance lining the lungs necessary for breathing - is sufficient for independent breathing in the event of labor. Such a child is often called not premature, but “prematurely born.” The difference lies in both the maturity of the lung tissue and the overall maturity of the fetus. Babies born prematurely breathe on their own and do not require any intensive care.

During this month, the child will grow from 40 to 45 cm, his weight by the end of the month will exceed 2500 g. He is growing by leaps and bounds, gaining on average 15-30 g per day (1% of his body weight).

8 months pregnant.Feelings of the expectant mother

This month is not called “difficult” for nothing. No matter what you do, you will always experience discomfort. Fatigue from pregnancy accumulates, and you can’t even get enough sleep. When you go to bed, you begin to feel out of breath or your back pain intensifies. To get comfortable, you have to drag a lot of pillows and bolsters into the bed, and once you do that... you have to go to the toilet. While falling asleep, you may be bothered by cramping, painless or slightly painful sensations that appear in the upper part of the uterus, then spread down and subside. These are Braxton-Hicks contractions - contractions of the uterus, which are training. While you are deciding whether this is the beginning of premature labor, many thoughts appear in your head that will not let you sleep for a long time. You should not take sleeping pills, especially without a doctor's recommendation. Try walking or doing strenuous physical activity before going to bed and drinking less at night.

Heartburn often occurs - even when eating a small amount of food. This is due to the fact that the fundus of the uterus has risen to the highest point during the entire pregnancy. Heartburn can be dealt with if you eat small portions, then the evacuation of food from the stomach will be faster and less content will be thrown back into the esophagus. If this does not help, ask your doctor to recommend safe medications.

Walking is also difficult. In addition to the aforementioned shortness of breath, fatigue and frequent urination, during a walk the fetus can push strongly, movements are actively felt in the upper abdomen, in particular in the liver area - it is in the upper abdomen that the baby’s legs are located in cephalic presentation of the fetus, which occurs in most cases. This is quite painful, but there are no ways to combat it.

After long walks and trips, nagging pain may appear in the lower abdomen and lower back. In this case, you definitely need to lie down, you can take a NO-SHPA tablet. If pain persists for more than 30 minutes, you should consult a doctor.

Psychology of the eighth month

Anxiety and concern come to the fore in your emotional state. You are alternately overcome by a variety of fears: now you are afraid of childbirth, now you are afraid for the health of the unborn baby, now you are worried about whether you will be a good mother, now about whether you will be able to return to work. You will be preoccupied with various little things, you will begin to worry about completely unnecessary things, you are annoyed by your own appearance, you do not get enough sleep, and it is already difficult to do usual things.

However, this happens to all pregnant women, so you are not alone. Moreover, all this is temporary. To prevent negative emotions from taking you prisoner, remember that pregnancy is a very short and unique moment of your life. Discuss your fears with your future dad, your mother, friends, talk to your doctor, and even better, sign up for psychological support groups in School of motherhood. By talking through all your worries there, it’s as if you are sharing them with others. In addition, this will allow others to better understand your sudden mood swings and will help create a supportive, comfortable environment around you. If you are feeling well, distract your attention with a trip out of town or a hike. exhibition, to the theater. Watch your appearance. If you already have children, prepare older children to meet the baby, allow children to touch your belly and talk to your future brother or sister.

Possible deviations from the norm

One of the most dangerous complications of late pregnancy is gestosis. This disease is also often called late toxicosis, nephropathy or preeclampsia. The causes of gestosis have not been precisely established. It is known that factors predisposing to its appearance are: high blood pressure before and during pregnancy, kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, stress, hereditary predisposition, multiple pregnancies, too young or mature age of the pregnant woman and much more.

Symptoms of this disease are the appearance of edema, protein in the urine, and increased blood pressure. The first thing a woman herself may notice is swelling. If you have gained more than 500 g in a week, you cannot take off your wedding ring, or you notice marks from elastic bands on your legs and waist - this is a signal for an emergency visit to the doctor. It is to exclude gestosis that the doctor so meticulously evaluates your weight gain and measures your blood pressure. The insidiousness of gestosis is also that if a woman does not have obvious edema, she may not feel an increase in blood pressure at all: a headache occurs already in the later stages of the disease. A severe form of pregnancy gestosis is indicated by the appearance of symptoms such as headache and dizziness, tinnitus, flashing “spots” before the eyes, nausea and vomiting, pain in the stomach and right hypochondrium. Any of these symptoms is a reason to seek immediate help, especially if you have problems with blood pressure during pregnancy. Without treatment, these disorders can lead to a deadly complication - eclampsia. Eclampsia is characterized by the sudden onset of seizures and loss of consciousness due to swelling of the brain. The seizure begins suddenly: strong convulsions occur that cover the entire body. This complication can lead to the death of the mother or fetus.

Timely treatment can help avoid serious consequences for the mother and fetus. Treatment begins with the creation of maximum rest and bed rest, allowing activation only in necessary cases (to eat, go to the toilet). You need to lie on your side, preferably on the left, this helps your kidneys work more efficiently and increases blood flow to the placenta. Most often, drug treatment of pregnancy gestosis is carried out in a hospital setting. If a woman’s condition worsens during treatment, then it is necessary to resort to early delivery in the interests of preserving the life of the mother and fetus.

Necessary medical measures during the 8th month of pregnancy

You should visit your doctor every two weeks, even if you feel well and have no concerns. The following indicators are monitored at each visit:

  • Your well-being.
  • Weight gain.
  • Arterial pressure.
  • Height of the fundus of the uterus and abdominal circumference.
  • Position of the fetus in the uterus.
  • Fetal heartbeat.
  • Presence of edema.

By the end of the eighth month, you will be offered a routine chairside examination. During the examination, a control smear test will be taken. Based on the results of this study, the question of the need to treat identified infections will be decided. Nowadays, many tests are repeated just before childbirth: for example, a general blood test, blood sugar test, biochemical analysis and blood clotting test. Before each visit to the doctor, you must take a urine test.

A brief description of the visit is recorded on an exchange card, which you should always carry with you when leaving home.

In the eighth month, the last planned ultrasound examination is carried out, during which the size, weight and position of the fetus, the location and condition of the placenta, the amount and transparency of amniotic fluid are clarified. In addition, it allows us to identify some types of fetal pathology that could not be detected at earlier stages, possible delay in fetal development, and also judge the maturity of the fetal lung tissue.

In addition to the usual ultrasound, which reveals the anatomy, i.e. static characteristics of the fetus, placenta and amniotic fluid; there is a research technique based on measuring the speeds of moving objects based on the Doppler effect. This technique is called Doppler. During this procedure, blood flow in the vessels of the mother, placenta, umbilical cord and fetus is examined. Based on the results of the study, it is possible to judge the presence of circulatory disorders in these organs and predict oxygen starvation in the fetus.

Pregnant lifestyle

It is advisable to buy or rent bathroom scales. Make sure there are no sudden weight changes. This is a kind of indicator showing any deviations. If the doctor has not limited the amount of liquid you consume, drink in total (including first courses, fruits, vegetables) at least one and a half liters of liquid per day, but give preference to clean water, excluding sweet and salty drinks. But salt in the diet must be limited: no more than 3-5 g per day, which is one level teaspoon, since salt consumption provokes the appearance of edema. It is better to cook food without salt, adding salt immediately before eating. Give preference to protein foods, significantly limiting easily accessible carbohydrates and fats. It is correct to eat not 2-3 times, but 6-7 times a day, but in small portions: this way you will feel better, the feeling of heaviness in the stomach will go away, and heartburn will decrease. Plan your last meal 2-3 hours before bedtime, and choose “light” low-calorie foods - low-fat dairy products, fruits, vegetables. Remember that the placenta allows many substances to pass from you to the baby, so obligate allergens, that is, foods that very often cause allergies (tomatoes, citrus fruits, strawberries, food coloring, chocolate, honey, chicken eggs and chicken), in late pregnancy better to limit. If you or the future dad yourself suffer from food allergies, then these foods, like those to which you have already been allergic, should be completely excluded.

Walks are still part of your daily routine, they should be short and nearby. It is advisable to walk 2 times a day. It’s better if you start and end your day with a leisurely walk.

Household chores at 8 months pregnant

At the end of the eighth month, start preparing for the birth of your baby. It's time to choose the maternity hospital where you are going to give birth; it would be nice to get to know the doctor who will be with you during childbirth. Find out in advance what services await you at the maternity hospital and the best way to get there. Check to see if the maternity hospital you have chosen is closed for scheduled maintenance cleaning. If you are about to give birth naturally, think over your birth plan in advance, your attitude to stimulation and pain relief, and discuss with your husband a possible partner birth. If for any reason you are indicated for a cesarean section, discuss the date of preliminary hospitalization with your doctor.

By the end of the month, collect the things that you would like to take to the maternity hospital during childbirth, and separately those that will be useful immediately after childbirth. Put cotton socks and washable slippers in the bag prepared for the delivery room. The second bag will include highly hygroscopic, highly breathable sanitary pads (2-3 packs), mesh or regular loose cotton panties, a nursing bra, and optional clothing. For your baby, prepare disposable diapers, baby diaper cream and moisturizer, baby soap, and a compact package of wet wipes. It is better to stock up on nipple cream that relieves pain from cracks and abrasions. This could be PURELAN, BEPANTEN, SOLCOSERYL, ACTOVEGIN.

Pregnancy by month: