How to Tell If a Fetus Has Dropped

The last few weeks of your pregnancy are exciting as you prepare for the birth of your baby.

As you reach the end of your pregnancy, your baby will drop deeper within your pelvis as he prepares for birth. This stage is also called "lightening." Every pregnancy is different and some fetuses do not drop until the final week before delivery, while others will drop into the pelvis much sooner.

Instructions

1. Monitor your breathing. Are you breathing more easily? Another sign that your baby has dropped is how well you can breathe. When your baby is larger, your breathing may become constricted toward the end of your pregnancy. However, when your baby drops lower, this will allow more room for your lungs to expand and you will be able to take deep breaths more easily.

2. Monitor urine flow. Ann Linden, a certified nurse-midwife with Baby Center, says you will notice your baby has dropped because you will be urinating more frequently. When the baby drops deeper into the pelvis, she sits more directly on the bladder. This causes pressure, resulting in more frequent urination.

3. Ask your doctor what your baby's position is. As your baby moves deeper into the pelvis he will align himself into the proper position for birth. His position often changes from posterior (face up) to anterior (face down) or from breech (feet first) to anterior. However, not all babies are alike. Some babies drop and maintain a difficult position at the same time. A change in position is just one indication that your son has dropped.

4. Check to see if you feel pressure on your pelvis when walking. Pressure is common during the end of pregnancy, but the pressure will intensify after your baby has dropped. This pressure may also cause you to have more frequent bowel movements.

5. Lay down on your bed more often and see if you notice more instances of heart burn. This is another sign that your baby has descended.

Tips & Warnings

• You may also notice that there is more space on your abdomen when your baby has dropped. Drink extra fluids and follow your doctor's advice as you prepare for the birth of your baby.

References

• Pregnancy Today: How to Tell if Your Baby Has Dropped

Resources

• Read this Article in UK English
• Baby Center: When is My Baby Likely to Drop?