Week 31 of Pregnancy
Third trimester
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
Baby is
about the size of a coconut
16.2 inches · 3.3 lbs
Baby this week
- •Brain is rapidly developing with more grooves and ridges forming
- •Lungs are becoming more mature and capable of breathing air
- •Baby can respond to sounds, light, and may react to your touch on your belly
- •Toenails are fully formed; fingernails extend to fingertips
You this week
- •Increased shortness of breath as baby takes up more space
- •Lower back pain and pelvic pressure from the extra weight
- •Braxton-Hicks contractions becoming more frequent and noticeable
- •Swollen feet and ankles, especially at the end of the day
- •Sleep disruptions from baby's movements and overall discomfort
- •Occasional lightning crotch or sharp pelvic pains
This week's tips
- •Practice pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) daily to strengthen muscles for labor and recovery
- •Try maternity support belts or pregnancy pillows to ease back pain and improve sleep
- •Keep prenatal appointments consistent—blood pressure and glucose monitoring become especially important now
- •Wear supportive, comfortable shoes and elevate your feet when possible to reduce swelling
- •Practice different labor positions: hands and knees, side-lying, squatting with support
- •Have important conversations with your partner about hospital preferences, birth plan, and postpartum plans
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
You're entering the final 9 weeks! Your baby is becoming increasingly viable, and many hospitals can now support independent breathing if early delivery occurs. Focus on getting quality rest and finalizing your birth preferences.
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For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
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