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Questions and Answers

Q. I'm 2 days away from being 37 weeks pregnancy and found out that I am 2 cm dialated and 60% effaced but the baby hasn't dropped low into my pelvis, does the fact that the baby hasn't dropped mean that birth will still be a few weeks? Can I still have a normal delivery if active labor starts and the baby hasn't dropped?

A. Congratulations on your growing family! It sounds as if you will probably be welcoming that new baby before your due date but it is difficult to tell how soon. Your cervix is thinning and dilating which is common in mothers who have had one or more children so that is an encouraging sign. The fact that your baby hasn't yet "dropped" is also because your pelvis has opened for a baby before. Many second (or more) babies don't drop until well into labor. If your labor begins soon it will help the baby to descend to a more favorable birth position if you maintain more upright positions and even walk or rock in a chair for early to early-active labor. Although we don't know for sure when your baby will decide it is his/her birthday it is bound to be soon so try to get as much rest as you can, eat healthy, and drink plenty of fluids so you'll be ready for the BIG DAY! GOOD LUCK!

Cyndi Klausing, RN, ACCE, has been a childbirth educator and breastfeeding counselor for over 18 years. She currently works as a newborn nursery nurse and is the mother of four sons.

Cyndi will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.