32 weeks pregnant

It’s time to make sure you have all of the essentials for baby’s arrival. Go on a shopping trip with your partner or Mum to pick up the things you’ll need.

Your baby at 32 weeks

Your baby’s skin is becoming softer and smoother; this is because of the layers of fat that are appearing beneath the skin. Hair, fingernails and toenails have formed too, and the cartilage that your baby’s skeleton is made from is hardening into bone by now.

The lanugo (soft, fine hair) that was keeping your baby warm has mostly shed by now, and your little one’s arms and legs are in proportion to the body.

By now, your baby is around 17 inches from head to toe, and weighs about 4 pounds. As your little one is still curled up, he or she is about the size of a white cabbage.

Your body at 32 weeks

Your baby has little room to move around in now, so kicks may seem less powerful, though you’ll still feel plenty of them.

It’s likely you’ll experience Braxton Hicks contractions this week, if you haven’t already. Thankfully, these don’t last long and are usually uncomfortable rather than painful. If they do become strong and frequent, then contact your doctor, as this could be a sign of early delivery. You might experience back pain too, which can also be a sign of premature birth, so contact your doctor if this becomes too painful.

As your uterus grows bigger, it pushes against your other organs, which may cause constipation and heartburn; these are common symptoms, made worse by an increased level of progesterone.

Pregnancy fact

Your blood volume has increased by a massive 50% since you got pregnant!

How you’re feeling at 32 weeks

You’re not far from your due date now, so it’s a good idea to read up on the early signs of labour. Cramps, water breaking and vaginal bleeding are all signs. Speak to your doctor if you have any specific concerns. Knowing the signs will help prevent you from panicking if your baby decides to make an early appearance!

Pregnancy advice

Now is a good time to make your exercises lighter. Yoga, walking, and simply stretching are all beneficial. Another thing to keep an eye on is your posture; stand up straight (or as close to straight as you can get right now!) as poor posture will worsen symptoms like cramps and backaches.
You should continue to eat lots of healthy food, particularly ones that contain folic acid, calcium, protein, vitamin C, and iron. These are all essential to your baby’s development.
If you were to give birth this week, your baby will have an excellent chance of survival.