The March of Dimes and Sutter Health explore the last few weeks of pregnancy and why they're important in a baby's development.
Why the Last Weeks of Pregnancy Count. An Important Message from the March of Dimes.
Every year 4 million babies are born in the United States. Half are delivered before 40 weeks…when they’re considered full term. More and more births are scheduled… just a little early. Know why every week counts.
[Dr. Gilbert]: "In the old days we thought all babies did fine. 35 weeks was the same as 39 weeks. We’re now understanding that that’s not true.
Studies are now showing that those last three weeks are very important in the baby’s development. Now it may not be as critical as the development that is occurring earlier, however, it still is very important for the vast majority of children who are in that range."
Important organs continue to develop while you’re 35 to 40 weeks pregnant.
[Dr. Gilbert]: "The baby’s brain at 35 weeks weighs two-thirds of what it’s going to weigh at 39 weeks. I tell moms that the incubator which is their womb or their uterus is far better than an incubator in the intensive care nursery. While that’s very important early in pregnancy – like let’s say 28, 29, 30 weeks – it still is valid up until 39 weeks. Because those babies still need to grow and develop their brains, their lungs their livers, their muscles, their coordination. "
If possible it’s best to stay pregnant for at least 39 to 40 weeks. Partner with your doctor or midwife to give your baby the best shot at good health.
[Dr. Gilbert]: "There always can be certain medical indications for early delivery. But its important that you as a patient understand that you have a say in this as well. Patients really need to take charge of their pregnancy because it is your pregnancy. And if you have concerns and those concerns have not be addressed adequately, you need to bring those concerns up to your doctor or midwife just to ensure that they understand where you’re coming from. Partner with your doctor or midwife to give your baby the best shot at good health. "
[Dr. Gilbert]: "If anyone suggests you deliver early ask:
[ Dr. Gilbert]: "They say the two greatest days in a man’s life is the day he gets married and the day his first child is born. I spend most the days of my life dealing with couples who have one of the greatest days of their lives."
The March of Dimes and Sutter Health want you to have the greatest day of your life. Have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. For more information visit us on the Web:
www.MarchofDimes.com | www.babies.SutterHealth.org