9 Months pregnant: What to expect on your ninth month of pregnancy

Aisling Keenan

Baby is due at any moment!

Unless you’re having a planned section or induction, you could be having your baby in the next 24 hours or the next 24 days – it’s a wild time.

Here’s what to expect in month nine of your pregnancy.

How you’ll be feeling

Entering the ninth month of pregnancy, you’re in the final stretch, and your emotions are likely mixed with excitement, anticipation, and a touch (!!!) of fatigue. The weight of your baby bump can make you feel more tired than usual. Simple tasks like putting on shoes or getting a good night’s sleep may require extra effort. However, the knowledge that you’re about to meet your little one might help get you through.

What you need to know

Familiarise yourself with the signs of labour, including regular contractions, your water breaking, and the bloody show, which are indicators that it’s time to head to the hospital or at the very least give your midwife, doula or obstetrician a buzz. Discuss pain management options with your healthcare provider now if you haven’t already. Consider whether you want to use pain relief techniques like epidurals or if you would prefer an intervention-free childbirth. Make sure your birthing partner, whoever that might be, knows your preferences too and will advocate for them where relevant and medical safe to do so. Understand the admission process at the hospital or birthing center. Know what to expect when you arrive for labour.

Things to do at 9 months pregnant

Continue attending your final few prenatal check-ups. These appointments are essential for monitoring your baby’s well-being and ensuring a smooth delivery. Practice breathing exercises and labour positions. Consider taking prenatal classes to equip yourself with essential labour and birthing knowledge. Prepare a hospital bag with essentials like baby clothes, toiletries, and important documents, ensuring you’re ready when labour begins. It’s good to have two: One for labour and for baby’s immediate needs, and one for your hospital room/recovery days. Set an out-of-office at work if needed.

How is baby?

In the ninth month, your baby is about the size of a watermelon. Their organs are fully developed, and they’re just waiting for the right moment to make their grand entrance into the world.

What to ask your doctor

What are the signs of labour you should watch out for, and how should you communicate that with your healthcare professionals when they occur?
Chat about your pain relief preferences and any concerns you may have about pain management during labour.
What should you expect upon arriving at the hospital, and how will the admission process work? What can you anticipate in terms of postpartum care for both you and your baby?
Be informed about potential complications during labour and how they will be managed.