What to (Really) Expect When You’re Seven Months Pregnant

Your Body At Seven Months Pregnant

Say Hello To “Practice Contractions”

During the seventh month of pregnancy, many women experience “practice contractions,” also known as Braxton Hicks contractions. They may feel like intense menstrual cramps or a tightening of the uterus, but they’re not cause for concern. It’s just your body getting ready for when you actually go into labor.

You’re Feeling A Little Off Balance

As your belly continues to grow, your body redistributes some of the weight. For some women, this can make walking feel different and you may feel a bit off balance. Just remember that it’s still important to stay mobile unless your doctor tells you otherwise — but you may need to be more mindful of your balance in order to ensure you stay steady on your feet.

You May Gain Up To A Pound A Week

In your third trimester, you could gain up to one pound per week. Of course, a lot of this depends on your body type and your pre-pregnancy weight and BMI. Your doctor will let you know if your weight gain is abnormal or cause for concern. At seven months pregnant, doctors typically begin measuring your fundal height, which is the distance between your pubic bone and the top of your uterus. This is done to keep track of your baby’s growth.

Your Baby at Seven Months Pregnant

They Can Open Their Eyes

After months of practicing eye movements beneath closed eyelids, your baby can now open and close their eyes! Because of this new development, they may be able to sense changes in light and darkness — so don’t be surprised if your baby gets extra active when there are bright lights present in your environment.

They’re Developing Some Of That Adorable Baby Fat

As they prepare to enter the world, your baby is fattening up. The fat smooths out the wrinkles in their skin. And speaking of skin, their skin cells are starting to produce the pigment melanin, which gives skin its color.

They’re Starting To Breathe On Their Own

By the end of month seven of pregnancy, your baby is starting to breathe on their own. Keep an eye out for this during your next ultrasound, because you may be able to see your little one breathing.

Your Symptoms and Health at Seven Months Pregnant

Fatigue

We regret to inform you that fatigue, your old friend from the first trimester, often returns during the third trimester. Many women have trouble getting a good night’s sleep due to their growing bellies, so don’t feel guilty about napping during the day if you can. A healthy diet and exercise like prenatal yoga and walking can help increase your energy level.

Pelvic Pain

In preparation for labor and delivery, pregnancy hormones loosen the joints connecting the two sides of your pelvis. That’s all well and good for when it’s time to give birth, but it’s not quite as convenient in the months leading up to the big day. If you experience pelvic pain, stay off your feet and ask your doctor to teach you stretches that can help ease the pain.

Leaking Nipples

Your breasts are also preparing for your baby’s arrival, which means they’re producing food in the form of a yellowish substance called colostrum. So if you notice discharge from your nipples, this is why.

Sciatica (Tingling Leg Pain)

As your baby adjusts in the womb in preparation for delivery, their head may end up resting on your sciatic nerve, located in your lower spine. This can cause sharp pain or tingling in your buttocks and all the way down to the back of your legs. A heating pad or a warm bath can alleviate the pain.

Read More:

8 Months Pregnant — Labor Symptoms And Fetal Development

25 Weeks Pregnant — Your Baby Is The Size Of A Box Of Chocolates

26 Weeks Pregnant — Your Baby Is The Size Of A Sleeve Of A Stack of Pancakes

27 Weeks Pregnant — Your Baby Is The Size Of A Giant Container Of Ketchup

28 Weeks Pregnant — Your Baby is The Size Of A Bread Basket