Accumulation of fat under the skin. (subcutaneous fat)
Development of lungs,
Formation of Lecithin (a fatty substance found in the lungs, useful for respiration).
Foetus responds to light and darkness.
The foetus accommodates in flexion position, mostly with cephalic (head) presentation.
Length of the foetus 16 inch.
Weight of the foetus 1 Kg 500 gms.
Amenorrhea,
Enlargement of the abdomen cause abdominal discomfort, heavy breathing on exertion,
Straie and linea nigra are more prominent,
The uterus can be palpated below the level of ensiform cartilage,
Head of the foetus is not engaged, it is floating,
Foetal movements are more pronounced,
Urine frequency
Weight gain in mother – 11Kg
Oja, essence of all the 7 Dhatus located in the heart manifests in 6th month of pregnancy, but becomes unstable in the 8th month and occupies every inch of the body.
In the 8th month fluctuations in physical and mental status of the pregnant woman are observed because of constant to and fro transmission of Oja from foetus to mother and back through Rasavahi nadi. When the Oja is conducted to mother, she becomes energetic and enthusiastic. When the Oja is transferred to the foetus, mother becomes pale, weak and gloomy.
Ayurveda cautions about delivery in 8th month as it may prove fatal to either mother baby or both. Traveling, over exertion is to be avoided. Rest and sound sleep is advised in the 8th month. In the past and even today shifting or traveling of the pregnant woman at her maternal place for the delivery was done in the 7th or 9th month of the pregnancy. Delivery in the 8th month (32 weeks) or in the 7th month (28 weeks) is termed as preterm labour. Preterm labour results in low birth weight baby and other complications in the baby.
In the 8th month, according to Ayurveda under medical supervision Asthapan basti (medicated enema of oil or decoction) is injected in to the rectum for nutriment of the foetus and mother. This medicated enema helps in normal functioning of the Apan Vayu. Normal functioning of Apan Vayu effects in stimulating and activating normal labour. Any Panchakarma is contraindicated in pregnant woman except for Asthapan Basti in 8th month.
