Engagement
Engagement happens when your baby's head descends into your pelvis and becomes nestled or "fixed" in place, ready for birth. It is sometimes called the baby "dropping" or "lightening." You may notice that your bump sits lower and breathing becomes easier because the baby has shifted away from your diaphragm. In first-time mothers, engagement often occurs a few weeks before labor begins, between 36 and 38 weeks. In mothers who have given birth before, engagement may not happen until labor actually starts. Your obstetrician can confirm engagement through abdominal palpation or an internal exam. Engagement is a positive sign that your pelvis is likely adequate for a vaginal birth.
What This Means for You
Understanding Engagement is an important part of your late pregnancy/labor journey. When preparing for birth, understanding this term helps you discuss your birth preferences with your midwife or OB-GYN and know what to expect in the delivery room.
Explore our Birth & Labour guideGood to Know
At your routine third-trimester antenatal visits at KKH, NUH, or your polyclinic, the doctor will note whether the baby is engaged and record it in your notes. If the baby is not engaged close to your due date, your team may investigate the reason.
Related Terms
Source: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/glossary-of-pregnancy-and-labour
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
Free Tools for Singapore Parents
Put your knowledge into action with our free calculators and trackers.