34th week

Hello, Amazing Moms,

How have you been holding up? It’s astonishing, isn’t it? The 34th week is upon us. One of the remarkable aspects of pregnancy is that while the days might feel endless, the weeks seem to speed by like a fleeting dream. It’s as if time itself is in a hurry to usher in the miracle awaiting you in just a few more weeks.

Your baby is now the size of a melon, measuring approximately 41 – 42 cm. They’ve bloomed into a little being, demanding more room by the day. Your once perfectly round tummy may now take on a different shape as your precious one stretches and explores. But it’s not just about space; it’s about experiencing the world.

Starting this week, your baby’s senses – sound, touch and even light – come alive. Every sensory organ is working tirelessly. In the incredible dance of development, your baby now closes their eyes when they slumber and greets the world with open eyes when they’re awake.

Moreover, in these moments, testicles, for baby boys, start their journey down to the groin area, marking a significant step in their development.

Checking Your Symptoms:

Vision changes: Some of you may experience blurry vision or dry eyes due to reduced tear production. Remember to prioritise rest and relaxation.

Itchy rashes: Dry skin and red rashes, particularly around your belly and thighs, can make an appearance during this phase.

Leaking urine: Is your urine escaping your control? Don’t fret or feel embarrassed, dear mama. This is a shared experience, with around 40% of women facing the same.

Hair growth: You might be delighted by the swift growth of your hair, long and lustrous. Even if you notice hair sprouting in unexpected places like your face, it’s only a few more weeks, so resist the urge to use chemical-based hair removal products.

Sleeplessness: Blame those hormones! They might be the culprits behind your sleepless nights. Consider practising breathing techniques, taking a soothing hot shower, or simply let a sweet lullaby lull you into slumber. Soon, you’ll be singing those lullabies to your little one.

Leaking colostrum: Your breasts may start to leak colostrum, that precious first drink for your baby. This is a divine gift of nutrition for your newborn, so fret not.

Your healthcare provider might suggest the following tests:

a) Group B Streptococcus Screening
b) Urine/Blood Tests for Blood Sugar Levels
c) A Tdap Vaccine (if not administered earlier)
d) Fundal Height Measurement (measuring your uterus)

Now is the perfect time to consider your postpartum plans. Where do you envision giving birth and who will be your support system? Are you contemplating hiring a nanny or leaning on the loving support of your parents? How will you navigate your work situation? Have you thought about the places of worship you’d like to introduce to your little one? How can you create a clean and welcoming environment for your baby? Have you picked out their first outfit? What about a cradle? And perhaps remote mics and speakers for soothing lullabies? These are all important considerations as you prepare for the incredible journey ahead.

While you ponder these questions, rest assured, I’ll be back soon to guide you through the next week.

Recipe for the 34th week : Multigrain Bread Sandwich.

INGREDIENTS

Multigrain bread – 2 slices

2.Onion – 1 slice

Tomato – 1 slice
Cucumber – 1 slice
Cheese – 1 slice
Mint chutney – 1 tsp
Green chilli – 1 no
Butter – 1 tsp

METHOD

Place 2 bread slices on a plate, spread a mint chutney evenly over each slide.
Arrange the vegetables evenly on one side.
Add cheese on top.
Cover the bread slice and apply butter on the top then grill it evenly.
Serve hot.

NUTRITIONAL VALUE

Multigrain bread 100 gms – 220 kcal
Tomatoes 100 gms – 18 kcal, fibre 1.2 gms

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS

A vegetable cheese sandwich can be a nutritious and satisfying choice during pregnancy, offering several benefits for both the mother and the developing baby. Here are some of the advantages:

Rich in essential nutrients: A vegetable cheese sandwich provides essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, fibre and protein. Vegetables like bell peppers, spinach and tomatoes offer vitamins A and C, folate and iron, which are crucial for a healthy pregnancy.

Protein source: Cheese is a good source of protein, which is important for the development of the baby’s organs, muscles and tissues.

Calcium: Cheese is also rich in calcium, which is essential for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. Calcium is also important for the mother to maintain her bone health.

Fibre: Vegetables in the sandwich provide fibre, which helps prevent constipation, a common issue during pregnancy. Fibre also aids in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

Folate: Folate, found in leafy greens like spinach, is vital for preventing neural tube defects in the baby’s development. It’s a crucial nutrient during the early stages of pregnancy.

Energy boost: The combination of carbohydrates from bread and the protein and fats from cheese can provide a quick and sustained energy boost, which can be particularly helpful during pregnancy when energy levels may fluctuate.

Easy to prepare: A vegetable cheese sandwich is quick and easy to prepare, making it a convenient option for busy pregnant women. It can be a lifesaver when you’re experiencing cravings or need a snack between meals.

Versatile: You can customise a vegetable cheese sandwich with your favourite vegetables, cheese types and condiments, making it a flexible and enjoyable choice.

However, it’s important to note that while a vegetable cheese sandwich can be a healthy option, moderation is key. Some cheeses may carry a risk of listeria contamination, so it’s advisable to choose pasteurised cheese varieties during pregnancy. Additionally, if you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns during pregnancy, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist for personalised advice on your diet.

Wishing you a joyous and healthy pregnancy journey!

Always only speak to a health care service provider for all pregnancy related queries and diet recommendations.