What does the fetus begin to do during the last month of pregnancy?

During the last month of pregnancy, fetal development focuses on significant weight gain. This period is crucial as the fetus accumulates fat and muscle tissue, which enhances its chances of thriving after birth. The increase in weight is primarily due to the accumulation of subcutaneous fat, which serves several purposes: it aids in thermoregulation after birth, supports energy needs, and helps in providing a buffer against environmental pressures.

Although all organs continue to mature and prepare for function outside the womb, the most notable physical change during this period is the increase in weight. This gain in weight is also important in terms of lung maturity and the overall readiness of the fetus for the transition from intrauterine life to the external world.

While the fetal neural pathways may further develop throughout pregnancy, and organs continue their maturation processes, these changes are more subtle compared to the significant physical growth observed. Similarly, while preparing for delivery involves various physiologic changes and readiness behaviors, the most pronounced characteristic of the last month is indeed the dramatic weight gain that occurs in preparation for birth.