How your baby is growing this week
Scallion size (14+ inches). Eyes opening and closing — irises are blue (all babies start blue; final color takes months). Eyelashes formed. Lungs producing surfactant for breathing. Almost 2 pounds (~1.7 lbs).
What your partner is going through
Rib pain from baby kicking upward — feels like a bruise under the ribs. Shortness of breath as uterus pushes diaphragm up. She may not be able to take a full deep breath until baby drops.
What to focus on this week, dad
- 01Car Seat Ops: buy the infant bucket seat now. Chicco KeyFit 30 and Graco SnugRide are top-rated. Locate the nearest fire station or police station that does free car seat inspections
- 02Research cord blood banking options — you need to decide before delivery. Private banking ($1,500-2,500 initial + $150/yr) vs. public donation (free). Discuss with OB at next visit
Connect with your partner
Help her put on socks and shoes without being asked. She genuinely cannot reach her feet anymore. This tiny act of service communicates more than words.
Source: NHTSA
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