You have very little to wait now before you have your bundle of joy all wrapped up in your arms. If you have any questions about your 31st week, you can read on and prepare to welcome your newborn.
By this time, your baby’s brain development is at full speed. Billions of synapses are forming between its neurons, all receiving constant information from all five senses. The baby whiles away the time inside the womb by practising expressions, breathing, swimming around in the amniotic fluid, and sucking his thumb. Your baby now responds to the sound of your voice with a range of kicks and punches, but they won’t be hard enough to cause any serious pain or injury. Some babies hiccup constantly, so be prepared to be jolted awake at night by the sound of his hiccups. Your little one has fully functional eyes at this point, allowing him to respond to light. The amounts of muscle and fat on the body are higher than ever. You will also notice him swaying to any melodies you play for him.
At 31 weeks pregnant, the baby’s size is around the same as a tender coconut. Weighing around 1.5 kg, the baby measures more than 40 cm from head to toe.
Carrying your little pumpkin around is getting tougher and tougher every week. You will experience another host of body changes during pregnancy at 31 weeks.
In the middle of the third trimester, pregnancy symptoms are only going to get more varied and less bearable. However, staying aware of any pains or discomfort and knowing their solutions will help you get through them quickly enough.
At the onset of the 31st week, you should be around 10-12 kg heavier than normal. The extra weight is going to have you off-kilter but there is no reason to worry. Also, at around 30 cm from top to bottom, your belly is probably stretched to the breaking point so keep some moisturiser handy.
Ultrasounds should now be a weekly affair so the doctor can keep an eye on the pregnancy, especially if you have complications such as diabetes or are carrying multiple babies. The scan will show that your baby is now almost completely formed, including all of his organ systems. This is the time for your little boy’s testicles to descend into the scrotum, or your little girl’s clitoris to develop fully. You can also have a 3D ultrasound done, which will show the detailed features of your baby’s face and body.
Your baby’s health depends on your diet, so ensure you get proper portions of protein, fruits, veggies, whole grains, and dairy. It is preferable to eat smaller meals more frequently to stave off indigestion and stomach cramps. Fried, processed and fat-rich foods should be avoided or eaten only sparingly. Some of the changes to make in your 31st-week pregnancy food are:
Although your body needs both iron and calcium, be careful not to consume both supplements together as calcium can block the absorption of iron in the body. You can take individuals supplements at different times during the day to avoid this.
Here are a few tips that will come in handy at this point of your pregnancy:
It might be time for you to think about how you want your newborn’s room decorated. Buy enough maternity clothes to last the pregnancy, but don’t forget post-pregnancy clothes as well. You should also consider buying feeding equipment like nursing bras, bottles, and so on. If you’re buying a crib for your baby, don’t purchase those with bumpers and certainly don’t keep pillows, toys or blankets in there, as these objects increase the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Also, consider buying an outdoor pram so you can take your baby along with you for some fresh air.
As the date of delivery will soon be upon you, it is best if you’re prepared well in time to enjoy the presence of your newborn. All the best!