Aki became sluggish and easily tired towards the end of her pregnancy, although she avoided the waddle that is common in the ninth month. She looked forward to having a few weeks off before the birth and do some things she hasn't had time for. But the baby had already robbed her of freedom and mobility.
This is what maternity leave is for; the baby was descending, corkscrewing into Aki's pelvis. This is all very good. However, no one waxes lyrical over the toilet visits every hour as the baby kicks the bladder over the touch line.