If you are 31 weeks pregnant, you have now transitioned deeper into your third trimester! The wait will finally be over in a few weeks, and your bundle of joy is on the way. At this stage, as the anticipation rises, so does the body discomfort caused by the growing swell of your belly.
This blog takes you through the changes happening in your body this week, the growth and development of your baby, and the precautions you need to keep in mind.
Changes in the Body at 31 Weeks of Pregnancy
At 31 weeks, your uterus keeps expanding and may push higher under your rib cage. You might feel more discomfort in your back, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations as you enter your third trimester. Shortness of breath is common because your growing uterus puts pressure on the area beneath your rib cage. You might also find it difficult to lie flat on your back during this stage.
Your bump may shift downward if the baby begins to engage in the pelvis. You might also notice more movement and changes in your baby’s position. Be sure to stay on top of routine antenatal care and get the whooping cough vaccination ( a vaccine given before week 33 to protect your baby from whooping cough after birth) if you haven’t already.
Baby’s Development at 31 Weeks
Your baby is almost fully developed at 31 weeks and is primarily focused on gaining weight.
At this stage, the baby is roughly 41 cm long from head to heel and may turn head-down or even remain in a breech position. It may also start to open and close its eyes and respond to light and sound. The baby may also suck their fingers. It is approximately the size of a coconut at this time.
Symptoms at 31 Weeks Pregnant
You may experience either of these or all common symptoms mentioned below:
- Braxton Hicks – These are practice labour contractions, which are feelings of tightness in the stomach area. These often come and go and can be felt more during the afternoons and evenings. These are perfectly normal, and some even call them ‘fake contractions.’ However, if the contractions have started coming at regular intervals, then it might indicate that you are getting into labour, and you should inform your doctor immediately.
- Backache and Pelvic Discomfort – The pregnancy hormones relax the connective tissue responsible for holding your pelvic bones in place. The growing uterus also stretches out the muscles in the stomach area. These changes often cause back pain during the third trimester.
- Shortness of Breath – You may experience shortness of breath because of the pressure building under your rib cage as the baby grows. This happens more when you recline or lie on your back. The best posture to rest during this stage is on your side.
- Increased Baby Movements – You will experience increased baby movements at this stage, as the baby gets more active and is trying to find more space in the womb. So, don’t be surprised if you feel the occasional somersault too.
There are some other pregnancy symptoms which may carry on throughout your pregnancy or continue from previous months. These other pregnancy symptoms you may notice:
- Feeling hot
- Swollen hands and feet
- Backache
- Stretch marks
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Leg cramps
- Dizziness
- Piles
- Sleeping problems
- Pain on the side of your baby bump, caused by your expanding womb
- Swollen and bleeding gums
- Headaches
- Urine infections
- Bloating and constipation
- Darkened skin on your face or brown patches, known as chloasma or the “mask of pregnancy”
- Vaginal infections
- Greasier, spottier skin
- Thicker and shinier hair
- Mood swings
- Morning sickness
- Weird pregnancy cravings
- A heightened sense of smell
- Sore or leaky breasts
- A white milky pregnancy discharge from your vagina and light spotting
Preparing for your Baby’s Arrival
As you’re now 31 weeks pregnant and drawing closer to childbirth, it’s time to start planning:
- Feeding Decisions – At this time, you can consider whether you’d like to bottle feed or breastfeed your baby. Although breastfeeding is a great choice as breast milk contains antibodies that can help your baby fight infections, not everyone can breastfeed. In that case, the formula is a good option as well.
- RSV Vaccination – Respiratory Syncytial Virus is an important vaccine you should get at this time, if you haven’t gotten it at 28 weeks. The vaccination can lower your baby’s risk of a severe lung infection called bronchiolitis, which can make it difficult for your baby to breathe and feed.
- Baby Carriers and Slings – You can start your baby prep around this time, and one of the important things to buy is baby carriers and slings.
Making these decisions now will help you feel more prepared and confident as you approach your due date.
Conclusion
At 31 weeks pregnant, you are moving closer to meeting your baby. As your excitement increases, so does your body discomfort. Your baby is almost fully developed at this stage and is rapidly gaining weight. This week is quite significant for monitoring the important changes occurring in your body. You may also start preparing thoughtfully for your baby’s arrival and the things you might need, like a baby sling, etc.
As you plan for your baby’s future, consider exploring stem cell banking options with Lifecell , India’s largest stem cell bank. It preserves your baby’s umbilical cord stem cells, which could protect your baby from 90+ serious conditions in future. Take care of yourself during these final weeks, stay in touch with your healthcare provider, and embrace this special journey as you prepare to welcome your little one into the world.