Pregnancy : 36th and 37th Weeks

Dr. Candelario and her family were in the U.S. so Dr. Abalos filled in during my 36th week (June 26th) and 37th week (July 3rd) check ups. She just monitored my baby's heartbeat and vital signs were normal. My baby is still breech though. Dr. Abalos said I could go into labor any time soon, so I should watch for any signs of labor. I'm hoping for my baby to reach at least 38 weeks to make sure his organs are fully developed before he comes out. Also, I wish he would still turn and engage himself properly so I could deliver vaginally.

On July 3rd, there was another patient who has the same EDD as mine. At that time, she was already having small contractions. Dr. Abalos advised her not go to the hospital yet though because it might still take a day or two before she has real labor contractions.

Here's my belly photo at 36 weeks: 

It's getting a lot harder to walk, sleep, and move about at this time of my pregnancy. Most of the time I feel tingling pains somewhere in my right butt cheek. I also started having joint pains and numbness in my fingers, which is normal at this time for pregnant women. My feet look normal though and there's no sign of edema there according to Dr. Abalos. I have bigger appetite although I still try to control myself by eating small meals, consuming more fruits, and limiting my intake of rice. The doctors also advise me to drink lots of water to maintain the right level of amniotic fluid. My baby is still very active and moves a lot, which is a good sign that he is holding up fine. 

While writing this post, I am one day away from my 38th week. 

My next appointment with Dr. Candelario is on July 10th. I'm not sure if she would start doing an internal exam on my cervix, but I'm readying myself for it.