Week 31 of Pregnancy
Third trimester
Baby is
about the size of a coconut
16.2 inches · 3.3 lbs
Baby this week
- •Brain is rapidly developing, with more wrinkles forming to increase surface area
- •Bones are hardening but still flexible for birth
- •Can regulate their own body temperature
- •Eyes can open and close, and may respond to light
- •Practicing breathing movements with amniotic fluid
You this week
- •Increased back pain and pelvic pressure as baby grows heavier
- •More frequent bathroom trips, especially at night
- •Shortness of breath as uterus presses on diaphragm
- •Swelling in feet and ankles, particularly by evening
- •Braxton Hicks contractions becoming more noticeable
- •Difficulty finding comfortable sleeping positions
This week's tips
- •Use a pregnancy pillow to support your back and bump while sleeping—side-lying is most comfortable now
- •Elevate your feet when possible to reduce swelling; compression socks can help too
- •Practice pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to prepare for labor and reduce incontinence
- •Stay hydrated and eat smaller, frequent meals if heartburn is worsening
- •Begin learning relaxation and breathing techniques for labor
- •Schedule your Group B Strep test (typically done around weeks 35-37, good to plan ahead)
Looking ahead
You're in the home stretch of your third trimester. Over the next few weeks, your baby will continue gaining weight and fine-tuning their systems. This is a good time to finalize your birth plan and tour your hospital or birthing center if you haven't already.
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