A mother, in her 31 weeks Pregnant, a baby begins to grow bigger, while the mother, on the other hand, experiences more aches.
The baby, this week, will measure 16.2 inches and weigh 3.3 ounces. To put things in perspective, this would be about the size of a SunnyD. Isn’t this exciting!
So what else is happening to the baby in the 31st week of pregnancy?
1. Head-turning
The baby develops to move their head around from side to side, strengthening their neck muscles.
2. Super smarts
The brains develop quicker this week. This includes important neural connections ensuring all five senses are on point. The baby is now able to see, feel, touch, taste, and hear.
3. The position of the baby
The baby starts to nestle into the fetal position with the space getting tighter. They may also face head-down, in the position ready for the much-awaited debut.
What is happening to a mother’s body in the 31st week of Pregnancy?
Your belly starts to ache which is a common symptom. Alongside, you may experience anything from the round ligament pain to Braxton Hicks contractions or is just plain gas or constipation. In most cases, this stage faces nothing major, but always call the doctor if you feel pain and are unsure of the cause.
Here’s what is happening to a mother’s body in the 31st week of pregnancy:
1. Hip and/or back pain
This may result as the pelvis starts to loosen as they get ready for the due date. It is related to pregnancy-induced sciatica, round ligament pain, or generalized aches. To help ease out, try prenatal yoga or some stretches.
2. Breathlessness
During pregnancy, you may experience shortness of breath which is partially caused by the hormone progesterone. It can also result as the baby gets bigger and crowds the lungs, not allowing you to breathe as deeply as usual.
3. Hair and nail changes
It is a common change most pregnant moms experience as they fail to have fuller hair and great skin while some experience brittle nails too. In case your nails have started to chip excessively, they will get back to normal post your delivery.
4. Trouble sleeping
The movements of the baby will get stronger this week. This may result in restlessness, lack of sleep, leg cramps, or uncomfort. Try using many pillows for comfy and practice calming nighttime rituals, stay hydrated, stay away from screens at night, drink chamomile tea, and exercise during the day.
5. Braxton Hicks contractions
As the body prepares for childbirth you may feel your belly tighten up and get rock hard for about 30 seconds. This is known as the Braxton Hicks contractions that are mildly uncomfortable but go away when you switch positions. It is like the true contractions but isn’t the same as they are more painful and take place in intervals. Stay hydrated to prevent many Braxton Hicks contractions that may turn into preterm labor. In any case, call the doctor if you face more than four contractions in an hour, or experience weird symptoms with the discomfort.
What would your belly look like in the 31st week of pregnancy?
You will gain an average of 21 to 27 pounds as your uterus fills the entire pelvis. You might feel as if the belly gets in the way of everything you do, that includes walking too! On the other hand, the amniotic fluid continues to increase onto week-36 as the movements of the baby get stronger and stronger.
For some brownie points, here is a quick checklist to get your sailing through the 31st week of pregnancy:
- Top tip: Get a prenatal massage as it helps relieve back, shoulder, and hip pain that relaxes your body. Lookup for a clinic or masseuse who is well trained with props and the necessary tables to keep you comfortable and protect your belly.
- Get ready: As a postpartum parent, you need access to filling meals. Once the food from friends and family run out, you must have prepared freezer meals ready and on the go! So, start cooking and grow your freezer stash.
- Best for your body: With the belly expanding, it makes the body even more uncomfortable. Therefore, a little motivation to keep moving won’t harm a bit. Catch up on podcasts like Dirty John, You Must Remember This, Bear Brook, or The Habitat to accompany you on a daily walk.
To Conclude:
- Pack your hospital bag.
- Get a prenatal massage. They work as a great stress reliever and a treat for these heavy times.
- Prepare freezer meals to consume as the baby is born. They could be simple recipes like a loaf of banana bread?
FAQs: 31 Weeks Pregnant – What To Expect? Symptoms, Baby Development, and Tips!
1. Is the baby fully developed at 31-weeks?
The baby has developed major organ systems and is fully formed, the only thing left is for the baby to add on weight before they enter the world.
2. What is the position of the baby at 31-weeks?
Most babies have their head down ready for birth which must have felt seeing the bump shift downwards. On the other hand, if the head of the baby is upwards, there is a lot of time for the little one to get into position.
3. How many months are 31-weeks pregnant?
You could be 7 or 8 months pregnant. It depends on how the weeks are divided into months.
