31st week of pregnancy

You are now one more week closer to the birth of your little bundle of joy. Here we will discuss the week 31 of pregnancy, to enhance your knowledge.

Development of the baby:

• The baby now weighs between 3 ½ and 4 pounds. It has grown to almost 15 to 16 inches by now.
• The baby continues to gain body fat over this week as well.
• As the baby continues to grow, the movements may now become restrained as there is not enough room left in the womb for vigorous activity.
• The lungs and the brain develop completely, similar to what these organs are in a newborn.

Changes in the mother:

• The mother continues with a steady weight gain of around ¼ to ½ pound each week.
• The uterus has grown so much by this time that it starts pressing against the diaphragm. This can trouble many women by causing breathlessness.
• Braxton Hicks contractions may become common now. They can start as early as the second trimester, but are extremely common now. These contractions may last from 30 sends to about 2 minutes, and make the body adapt to the actual labor situation.
• Pre-milk or colostrum may start leaking from breasts. This is a thick milk-like substance that is produced in breast from now on to 2 to 3 days after the baby is born.
• As a result of the loose ligaments and ever rising body weight, the female can experience thigh pain, backache and even hip pain.
• Constipation is another never-ending problem. If neglected, the situation can be even worse, giving haemorrhoids to the mother.

Attachment with the baby:

• With more than one change in the mother’s body to prepare her for childbirth, it is obvious that she will become more concerned about her child and the delivery. As the days are passing, the mother becomes increasingly impatient about the birth of the little one. Even the smallest thing, like seeing a pair of tiny socks and the production of pre-milk can make her more excited and draw her closer to her baby. While the baby develops in the womb, mother’s affection for the baby grows too.

Complications & tips:

• Haemorrhoids can be quite painful and itchy. To minimize the discomfort, try placing baking soda on the affected area, and use lime juice or witch hazel to reduce the itching and bleeding. Also, as far as possible, stay away from heavy foods to avoid constipation.
• Get your third trimester ultrasound (sonogram) done to confirm the baby’s position for the probable delivery date.
• Another tip that can be useful is to use breast pads in case of leaking colostrum.

Tip for the father:

• The arrival of a new one may be a cause of anxiety. There is no need to worry if proper arrangements have been done. Try going to the childbirth classes along with your partner to become accustomed to the situations that are set to happen in some time. These classes provide useful tips in dealing with emergencies. Also, prepare a list of address and contact numbers of your health care providers and doctors to finalize your plan of action in case of any emergencies.

Diet:

• In the third trimester, the woman’s diet should not contain any junk foods. It must be balanced and highly nutritious. For the health of the baby, it is essential that you include folic acid, iron, calcium and fibre in your diet. Never forget taking your prenatal vitamins to complete the body’s requirement of nutrients. Eat in small proportions to keep constipation at bay.

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