The father's guide

The Father's Role in Month 8 of Pregnancy

Your role as a father in month 8 of pregnancy is practical preparation for the birth. Pack the hospital bag with your wife this month and go over the birth plan so you know her preferences for labour. If you are asking how to support your pregnant wife in month 8, remember that moving around is harder for her now, and that paying attention to the baby's movements with her really matters.

What happens this month

According to the NHS, at week 32 the baby is around 42.4cm long from head to heel, about the length of a bunch of celery, perfectly formed and now putting on weight. The NHS says your wife may gain around 450g a week over the next 4 weeks, and the baby is probably head down ready for birth, and if not, there is still time. As the baby grows there is less space in the womb, but movements should continue at the same rate until birth.

How to support your wife in month 8

• Pack the hospital bag with her this week, and ask what she wants in it rather than packing it alone.
• Go over the birth plan and know her preferences for labour, so you can speak up for her if she needs you to.
• Talk with her about vitamin K for the baby: the NHS says it is offered within 24 hours of birth and suggests discussing it with her partner.
• If a caesarean is planned, arrange things at home in advance; the NHS says the average hospital stay is 3 or 4 days.
• Ask her every day about the baby's movements, which should continue at the same rate until birth.

When to call the doctor

According to the NHS, if the pattern of movements changes or the baby stops moving, contact the midwife or hospital as soon as possible. Do not wait and count; call straight away.

Sources: NHS

The mother's guide: month 8

This guide is general information, not medical advice. It does not replace a doctor, and it knows nothing about your particular pregnancy. If something feels wrong, contact your doctor instead of waiting for the next scheduled visit.