Pregnancy Week 33: Your Baby’s Development and Your Changing Body
At 33 weeks pregnant, you’re in the home stretch! Your baby is growing rapidly and your body is preparing for labor and delivery. Here’s what to expect during this week of your pregnancy:
Your Baby’s Development
- Size and weight: Your baby is now about 17 inches long and weighs around 4 pounds.
- Appearance: Your baby’s skin is becoming smoother and less wrinkled. Their hair is growing longer and their fingernails are fully formed.
- Organs: Your baby’s lungs are almost fully developed and they’re practicing breathing. Their digestive system is also mature and they’re able to swallow and digest amniotic fluid.
- Movement: Your baby is very active at this stage and you may feel them kicking, punching, and rolling around.
- Senses: Your baby can now hear your voice and other sounds from the outside world. They can also see light and dark.
Your Changing Body
- Belly: Your belly is now very large and you may have difficulty finding comfortable positions to sleep and sit.
- Breasts: Your breasts are preparing for breastfeeding and you may notice that they’re leaking colostrum, a thick, yellowish fluid.
- Weight gain: You’ve probably gained about 25-35 pounds by this point in your pregnancy.
- Swelling: You may experience some swelling in your hands, feet, and ankles.
- Varicose veins: You may develop varicose veins, which are swollen, twisted veins.
- Hemorrhoids: You may also develop hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in your rectum.
- Back pain: You may experience back pain as your belly grows and your posture changes.
- Pelvic pain: You may also experience pelvic pain as your body prepares for labor.
Common Symptoms
- Frequent urination: You may need to urinate more frequently as your baby’s head presses on your bladder.
- Constipation: You may experience constipation as your hormones slow down your digestion.
- Heartburn: You may experience heartburn as your stomach is pushed up by your growing uterus.
- Shortness of breath: You may experience shortness of breath as your uterus expands and presses on your diaphragm.
- Fatigue: You may feel tired and run down as your body works hard to support your growing baby.
- Mood swings: You may experience mood swings as your hormones fluctuate.
What to Expect at Your Prenatal Appointment
At your 33-week prenatal appointment, your doctor will:
- Check your weight, blood pressure, and urine.
- Measure your belly to track your baby’s growth.
- Listen to your baby’s heartbeat.
- Discuss any symptoms you’re experiencing.
- Answer any questions you have.
Tips for Week 33
- Get plenty of rest: You’re in the home stretch, so make sure to get plenty of rest.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet is important for both you and your baby.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise can help you stay healthy and prepare for labor.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: Alcohol and smoking can harm your baby.
- Take prenatal vitamins: Prenatal vitamins can help ensure that you’re getting the nutrients you and your baby need.
- Listen to your body: If you’re experiencing any unusual symptoms, call your doctor.
Preparing for Labor
As you approach your due date, it’s important to start preparing for labor. Here are a few things you can do:
- Create a birth plan: A birth plan outlines your preferences for labor and delivery.
- Pack a hospital bag: Pack a hospital bag with everything you’ll need for your stay.
- Arrange for childcare: If you have other children, arrange for childcare during your labor and delivery.
- Talk to your partner: Talk to your partner about your fears and expectations for labor.
- Take childbirth classes: Childbirth classes can help you learn about the process of labor and delivery.
Conclusion
Pregnancy week 33 is an exciting time! Your baby is growing rapidly and your body is preparing for labor and delivery. By following these tips, you can help ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy and delivery.