Prepare for birth

Why the last few weeks matter

By the end of pregnancy many women are tired, uncomfortable and more than ready to meet their baby. That feeling is completely normal. It is worth knowing, though, that if your pregnancy is healthy and there is no medical reason to bring things forward, staying pregnant until around 39 to 40 weeks gives your baby the best start.

The last few weeks are not just waiting time. They are when your baby's brain and lungs do some of their most important growing. A baby's brain at 35 weeks is only about two-thirds of the size it will be at 40 weeks, and the lungs are not fully ready until around 39 weeks. Every extra week inside, when it is safe, adds to your baby's development.

Sometimes the safest choice is for your baby to be born earlier, and your midwife or doctor will talk with you about timing if there is a reason. If they recommend an induction or a planned birth, that advice comes first. And if anything changes before then, such as your baby's movements slowing or any other worry, contact the maternity unit straight away. The message is simply that in a healthy pregnancy, there is no rush to bring a baby out early.

You and your support people should consider enrolling in antenatal birth classes, ideally around 30+ weeks. Some options are below.

Bathurst Maternity antenatal classes

Bathurst Maternity runs free, in-person antenatal classes, called Bellies, Birthing and Babies, led by one of their midwives, for you and your birth support partner. They are held in the Heritage Building meeting room at the front of the hospital, and are a lovely way to learn what to expect and to meet some of the team who may be there when you give birth.

The course runs in three parts: Bellies covers pregnancy, maternity services and supports; Birthing covers labour and birth; and Babies and beyond covers adapting as a new family, feeding, and looking after yourself.

You can do it in one of two formats.

Three Tuesday evenings, 5 to 8pm.

One full Saturday, 9am to 3pm.

Bring yourself and your birth partner, your questions, and snacks or a meal. To register, let your midwife know in clinic or call the ward on 6330 5210.

One-on-one education with a midwife in general practice

Some Bathurst general practices have a midwife in their team who can give you pregnancy and birth education one-on-one. Ask whether your practice has one, or find a practice that does.