Fetal development week 34

The article was consulted professionally by Bsck II Pham Thi Xuan Minh – Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Share99 Hai Phong International Health Hub.

In the 34th week, the fetal weight and height increase closer to the weight at birth, the body systems (digestive, respiratory, …) are completed, the testicles begin to move down the scrotum, sex hormones are produced that promote the development of the genitalia in preparation for the stage of childbirth.

At 34 weeks, the size of the fetus weighed 5 pounds (2.27kg) the equivalent of a large pineapple and was about 20 inches (50.8cm) long measured from the top of the head to the buttocks.

The testicles move to the scrotum: The testicles have been formed in the abdomen and are in the stage of moving to the scrotum. In the range of 3-4% of boys, the process of moving the testicles to the scrotum takes longer. So don't worry if boys are born and the testicles are not yet down to the scrotum, they will appear before the baby's 1-year-old birth.

Sex hormone production: At this time, both boys and girls are producing a lot of sex hormones, which will explain why the genitals can appear large and swollen at birth, and in the case of boys, why the skin of the scrotum may appear dark pigmentation in the first few weeks after birth.

Thickened skin protection wax: Now with only a few weeks to go until the big day, vernix – a white wax coating that protects the baby's skin from amniotic fluid and provides mucus that helps lubricate for childbirth – is thickening right in the run-up to birth.

Complete digestive system: The digestive system has been perfected to allow the baby to be ready to absorb breast milk at birth. Most other main bodies – the respiratory and nervous systems – were almost able to function on their own. The baby may have turned in an upside-down head position, ready to be born. The space in the uterus is narrowed, the mother can feel her elbows or knees moving in the abdomen.

Complete central nervous system: The central nervous system along with the baby's lungs are in the process of being perfected. Babies born between 34-37 weeks have no other health problems that often prove that these agencies have completed early.

Nails appear: Within 1 week of development, after the 33rd week, the baby's nails finally reach the fingertips.

In detail about the development of the fetus week by week, every parent should find out:

The mother's uterus continues to expand. When she was 34 weeks pregnant, she was seeing about 5 inches protruding on her navel.

At this time, the eyes of pregnant mothers do not work as well as usual. That's because of the effects of these pregnancy hormones – it can also affect the gastrointestinal tract and ligaments. Not only can vision be blurred these days, but a decrease in tear production can cause the pregnant eye to dry out and uncomfortable, especially if contact lenses are worn. Furthermore, an increase in fluid behind the eyes can cause contact lenses to change shape, making the myopism or farsop vision of some women worse. However, these changes are only temporary. Your eyes will light up again normally after birth. But keep in mind that some of the more serious vision problems can be signs of pre-production, so be sure to mention if there are vision changes with the doctor.

• Bloating and gas

As the third trimepcle is gradually towards the end, the pregnant woman may feel bloating. Anxiety only makes those unpleasant sensations worse – you tend to swallow more air when stressed. So try to reduce stress by taking a deep breath through the nose and exhaling for a period of 1- 2 minutes a day.

• constipation

The larger the size of the fetus can squeeze the colorectal causing constipation. Therefore, pregnant women should strengthen their diet with some dried fruits, fresh fruits, vegetables and cereals. If you do not improve you will probably need to take laxatives (even herbs). Ask your doctor before taking any medication.

• Increased vaginal secrety

As pregnancy progresses later, pregnant women may see increased vaginal secretion. It is caused by pregnancy hormones (especially estrogens) – they increase blood flow to the pelvic region and stimulate mucous membranes. Wearing panties with breathable cotton lining can keep the genitals dry and limit odors.

• Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids occur when constipation persists. It is possible to relieve the symptoms of the disease with Kegels exercises. This exercise can help strengthen the firmness, toughness of the pelvic and vaginal muscles, which can help in improving hemorrhoids.

• Back pain

The focus of the body during pregnancy shifts from the back to the abdomen creating additional pressure and causing pain in the lower back. There are many solutions to treat back pain such as light motor enhancement, changing sitting or walking standing position. Note, sitting in one seat for too long can cause even more pain in your back.

• Leg cramps

Cramps in the legs are the most frequent symptoms at this stage, which occurs due to a rapid increase in fetal weight, increased swelling and fatigue. If the pregnant woman has cramps, apply cold compresses, or stay in place and slowly re-shape the deviated joint.

• Stretch marks

If pregnant women have light-colored hair and a family history of stretch marks, they are more likely to have stretch marks than those with black hair (or black skin). This symptom can be maximized by keeping weight gain slow and stable.

• Edema (swelling in the feet and ankles)

As the fetus becomes larger, body tissues accumulate and retain fluid, the fetus may become swollen in the ankles, feet and fingers. Using comfortable sandals at the end of the working day can help soothe swollen toes.

• Hair grows fast

During pregnancy, the hair will grow faster and more glossy, but not only in the scalp, it can also grow in other places such as the cheeks, chin and back. Hair removal is safe during pregnancy, ask for a formula for sensitive skin because the skin is more sensitive at the moment.

• Shortness of breath

As the pregnant belly becomes larger, the lungs will be able to fully expand, so that the pregnant woman may feel wind coming into the body, even after going to the bathroom. Sleeping on the left side can reduce shortness of breath at night.

• insomnia

Insomnia during pregnancy can occur due to anxiety for the upcoming date of birth. Try lulling yourself to sleep with a tub of warm water and a cup of warm milk and read a book or listen to music instead of watching TV or going online (those activities can keep you awake).

• Colostrum leakage

As the date of birth approaches, the udder may leak colostrum – the yellow line of milk will be the baby's first drink. It may leak more than a few drops, but if it feels uncomfortable, the pregnant woman can use nursing pads.

Protect your eyes: By the 34th week, your pregnant mother's eyes may feel drier and more sensitive than usual, so always bring sunglasses and handy eye sprays with you.

Pre-birth depression: Between 10 – 15 % of women suffer from depression during pregnancy. Some factors can put pregnant women at higher risk for depression such as symptoms of discomfort during pregnancy, anxiety, lack of care … there is no shame in asking for help. See your doctor for advice; some safe antidepressants are allowed for use during pregnancy.

Do not eat too much food: Doctors often advise pregnant women to eat a low-sodium diet during pregnancy. A moderate amount of salt (salt for seasoning, food with a light salt content) really helps the female body regulate fluids in the body and significantly reduce the amount of sodium that is not good for the baby. However, keep in mind that too much salt is not beneficial for anyone (pregnant or not) – and it can even aggravate edema. Some solutions such as limit yourself to 1-2 soakings, ignoring salted snacks, practicing tasting habits before sprinkling can reconcile the amount of salt provided to the body.

Boost health: A quick walk, yoga class, swimming or running will increase blood flow and enhance endorphins. Physical activity also helps pregnant women sleep better, which will also help fight fatigue during the day.

In the last 3 months of pregnancy, especially from week 34 10, the health of both mother and baby should be closely monitored and examined. Pregnant women need:

• Know the real signs of labor to get to the hospital in a timely manner, affecting the health of the fetus.
• Distinguish amniotic fluid and vaginal discharge for timely processing, avoiding premature birth, pregnancy failure, still still death.
• Special care when bleeding appears in the last 3 months of pregnancy needs urgent emergency to ensure the life of both mother and baby.
• Monitor the amount of amniotic fluid regularly, continuously.
• Monitor the weight of the fetus for the last 3 months to assess the development of the baby and the dosage of possible risks at birth.
• The monitoring team is equally forward, the fetus is retested and needs to be closely monitored by a doctor and given appropriate direction.
• Distinguish the psychological mound, labor mound and machine pregnancy to get to the hospital in a timely manner.

The full maternity service at Share99 makes the pregnancy process of pregnant women more gentle and safe. During the pregnancy process, pregnant women will be examined by leading doctors in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department with high professional qualifications, experienced, giving advice and directions for the best treatment for the health of both mother and baby.

For more information about packages of maternity services, please contact Share99 Health Hubs and Clinics nationwide.

Source: Webmd.com