Wendy is considered full-term now and Scout's finishing touches are in the works. We went to the Doctor today and he said Wendy is dialated to a 2 and is 70% effaced. Before labor, the cervix is thick and 0% effaced. During labor the cervix thins out and right before delivery it will become very soft and 100% effaced.
Scout is head down and looking for the door. If she doesn't sneak out before the 21st we are on the schedule for an induction. Wendy will visit the doctor next Wednesday, stop her heparin injections, then have a Birthday party on Friday.
Wendy experienced a slight sensation called `lightening` as the pressure on her ribs decreased and the baby dropped into the final postion for delivery. She thinks it's easier to breathe and eat but there's always a trade off. As the pressure has decreased on her lungs and stomach it has increased exponentially on her bladder. Bathroom stops are common and it's hard to want to leave home. After this week she will be done at work.
Scout is now fully mature and ready to be born. However, she is growing and developing every day. Fat is still being laid down at the rate of half an ounce a day. She is also practicing shallow breaths using amniotic fluid.
Above all this is a time for Wendy to take it easy. Research shows the baby can adversely be affected by stress hormones, but we all know Wendy will be fine. Nothing phases her. All will be good as planned.
