The 8th month

This past Monday I had my weekly OB appointment with Holly. She is happy with my glucose readings now since I quit my ice cream binges. She is concerned about my placenta. She's worried that it will fail prior to having the baby. We scheduled the induction for November 30th. Even with this scheduled induction, she's concerned that something may happen before the date arrives. Please say some prayers. We have a history of asthma in my family and this little baby needs all lung development time he can get.

I just realized that I haven't posted anything about this month in the pregnancy.

Here's what American Baby has to say about the 8th month of pregnancy:

Everything in your baby's body is preparing for his entry into the world. His brain and nervous system are maturing, his limbs are becoming smooth and plump, and his skin is a healthy color. Fingernails are growing past his fingertips and his toenails have nearly reached the end of his toes.

If your baby is a boy, his testicles have nearly completed their descent into their proper position in the scrotum. If the testicles do not descend now, they may descend after birth.

Your baby is now acquiring immunity to many infections with the help of your immune system. This immunity lasts for a few months after birth until he develops his own resistance to illness. Breastfeeding can enhance the temporary immunity your baby gets from you.

Although the fetus doesn't actually breathe, he does make breathing movements and he hiccups. You can tell when your baby hiccups, because you'll feel him making rapid, jerky movements. You may also begin to notice that your baby has a regular daily pattern of activity and rest.

The amount of amniotic fluid reaches its maximum this month--about two pints on average. The amount of fluid will diminish somewhat as delivery nears.

Babies born during the eighth month have a considerably better chance of surviving than those born only one month earlier. Depending on how early in the month they are born, they might need to be given oxygen because of immature lungs. They might also need the extra warmth provided by an incubator.

Your baby weighs a little less than 5 pounds now and measures a little more than 12 inches from head to buttocks, or 17 inches from head to toe.