Week 31
Third Trimester

What happens to me?

A pint and a half of amniotic fluid now surrounds the baby, but that volume decreases, as the baby gets bigger and has less room in your uterus. As you and the baby continue to grow, do not be alarmed if you feel shortness of breath, it is just your uterus pressing against your diaphragm. While this may be uncomfortable now, about two to four weeks before labor, the baby's head will drop into your pelvis to get ready for delivery. This drop will make breathing and eating a lot easier.

It is not unusual to have to get up at night and walk around for a few minutes to settle the baby back down into your lower abdomen and out of your ribs. You may also experience more heartburn as the uterus displaces the internal organs, leaving less room for the stomach and its contents. You may be able to help relieve this by remaining upright after a meal. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also help your heartburn. Always ask your healthcare professional before you take any medications, even over-the-counter products. One of the most frequent complaints in pregnancy is back pain. This can start at almost any point of pregnancy and can continue well into the first postpartum year. You may find relief from back pain by maintaining good posture, exercising, and stretching properly.

How much will I be showing?

Your uterus is now approximately 4 ½ inches from your belly button. Your total pregnancy weight gain is probably between 21-27 pounds.

What happens to baby?

This week the baby continues to open and shut its eyes. The retina of the baby's eyes can now dilate and contract in response to light and it can probably see what's going on in utero. If you shine a light on your belly, the baby may move its head to follow the light or even reach out to touch the moving glow.

Even though you may feel shortness of breath at times, the baby is getting plenty of oxygen from your placenta. The fingernails may reach the end of the fingers. Due to the deposits of white fat underneath the skin, the baby's skin is no longer red but pink.

The baby's lungs and digestive tract are almost fully developed, and while the baby may soon stop growing in length, it will continue to put on the pounds.

How big is the baby?

The baby weighs about 3 ½ pounds and is 11 inches crown to rump or 18 inches head to toe.

Tip of the Week

Some clothes, shoes, and rings or other jewelry, may be too snug due to swelling. You should refrain from wearing items that are too tight and restrict the flow of blood.

Want to figure out your due date? Click Here

Just found out you're pregnant? Don't forget to check out the previous Weeks!

Pregnancy Calendar Disclaimer