Your baby is now the weight of a coconut 1.5kg and measures 41.1cm (head to heel)…
Your growing baby
Your baby’s body is entering another growth spurt as much needed fat accumulates under the skin. The constant bouts of activity are an excellent sign of a healthy baby, but these somersaults and kicks may be keeping you awake at night.
The eyes continue to develop and the pupils can now dilate in reaction to the light that filters in through the wall of the uterus. The eyelids are likely to be open during the time your baby is awake and closed when its asleep.
What’s happening to you
You may be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions every so often. These contractions are the result of your uterine muscles tightening. They last for about thirty seconds and should be quite infrequent and painless at this stage.
Frequent painful contractions, however, could be a sign of early labour so seek advice from your midwife or doctor.
You may have recently noticed some leaking of colostrum, your baby’s first milk, from your nipples. If so, try placing nursing pads into your bra to protect your clothes. Don’t worry if you don’t see colostrum at this stage, your breasts will still be producing it.
Clumsiness is quite normal at this stage in pregnancy. Caused by an increase in weight, a change in your posture and a lack of concentration, amongst other things, you will need to tread carefully to make sure that you don’t fall. Avoid slippy shoes, or walking around in socks, and take extra care on any slippery surfaces.
Need to know
Things for you to consider during week 31 of your pregnancy:
- If you notice your baby is moving less or there is a change in the pattern of movement, it could be the first sign that your baby is unwell. Contact your midwife or local maternity unit immediately.
- Find out more about breastfeeding. Even if you are uncertain about how you wish to feed your baby, or haven’t breastfed a previous baby, talk to your midwife about the benefits of breastfeeding and what you need to know. Attending antenatal classes will give you loads of useful information.
- Make a list of everything you need for the baby so that you can see what you still need to get.
- If you are not having a home birth, start thinking about what you will want to pack in your labour bag.
- Check what birthing equipment, such as TENS machines, birthing balls and birth pools, the maternity unit supplies and what you can take in yourself.