Feeling like your stomach has dropped is a common sensation that pregnant women experience as their due date approaches. This phenomenon is often linked to a change in the position of the baby in the womb, known as “lightening.”
1. Decreased Pressure on Your Diaphragm
One telltale sign that your stomach has dropped is a noticeable decrease in pressure on your diaphragm. As the baby descends lower into your pelvis, it can relieve some of the pressure on your lungs and stomach, making it easier to breathe and eat.
2. Increased Pressure on Your Bladder
Conversely, as your baby drops, you may find yourself making more trips to the bathroom. This is due to the increased pressure on your bladder caused by the baby’s head engaging in your pelvis.
3. Changes in Your Belly Shape
When your stomach drops, you might notice a change in the shape of your belly. It may appear lower and more protruding, giving you a different silhouette than before.
4. More Space Between Breasts and Abdomen
One clear visual indication that your stomach has dropped is when there is more space between your breasts and the top of your abdomen. This can be a noticeable change in your body’s appearance.
5. Increased Pelvic Discomfort
Women often report feeling increased pelvic discomfort when their stomach drops. This can manifest as pressure in the pelvic area or even pain as the baby’s head presses down.
6. Easier Breathing
As the baby descends into the pelvis, it can take some of the pressure off your diaphragm, allowing you to breathe more easily. This can be a welcome relief for many pregnant women.
7. Engagement in the Pelvis
When your stomach drops, it’s a sign that your baby’s head is beginning to engage in your pelvis in preparation for birth. This positioning is an important milestone as you approach labor.
8. Changes in Movement
You may notice changes in how your baby moves once your stomach has dropped. Some women report feeling less movement in the upper abdomen and more pressure lower down as the baby settles into position.
9. Difficulty Bending Over
With the lower position of your baby, bending over can become more challenging. This is a common complaint among women as they approach the end of their pregnancies and their stomachs drop lower.
10. Nesting Instincts
Some women experience an increase in nesting instincts once their stomach has dropped. This sudden surge of energy and desire to prepare for the baby’s arrival can be a sign that labor is approaching.
11. Possible Backache
As your baby’s position changes, you may experience increased pressure on your lower back, leading to backache. This discomfort is often a result of the altered alignment of your spine due to the baby’s descent.
12. Preparation for Labor
Overall, when you feel like your stomach has dropped, it’s a sign that your body is getting ready for labor. This physical change is a significant milestone in your pregnancy journey as you approach the arrival of your little one.
