• Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions may become more noticeable as your uterus prepares for labour.
• Shortness of breath: Your growing uterus puts pressure on your diaphragm, which can make breathing a bit more challenging.
• Frequent urination: As your baby moves further down into your pelvis, you may feel the urge to visit the loo more often.
• Swelling: Fluid retention can cause swelling in your feet, ankles, and hands, especially during the later stages of pregnancy.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and you may experience different symptoms than other mums-to-be. If you have any concerns, reach out to your doctor for guidance.

Baby’s Growth in the Womb

• Organ Development: At 32 weeks, your baby's organs are continuing to mature and refine their functions. The lungs are producing surfactant, a substance that helps them expand and contract with each breath. The digestive system is also preparing for life outside the womb, with the intestines practising contractions to move food through the body.
• Physical Features: Your baby is now resembling a newborn, with smoother skin, less lanugo, and possibly a full head of hair. Their nails are fully formed and ready for a trim!
• Weight of the Foetus: At 32 weeks, your baby weighs approximately 1.7 to 1.9 kg and measures around 42 to 44 cm from head to toe. They're gaining about half a pound each week as they prepare for their coming into the world.
• Movement of the Baby: You may notice a change in your baby's movement patterns around this time. As space becomes more limited in the womb, those big kicks and jabs may turn into more subtle wiggles and squirms. It's important to continue monitoring your baby's movements and to contact your doctor if you notice a significant decrease in activity.

Physiological Changes During Week 32 of Pregnancy

• Breast Changes: As your breasts prepare for breastfeeding, you may notice that they feel fuller and heavier. Your nipples and areolas may also darken and become more pronounced. Some women experience leaking colostrum, the nutrient-rich precursor to breast milk, during the third trimester.
• Hair, Skin, and Nails: You may notice that your hair appears thicker and shinier due to increased blood flow and hormone levels. However, some women experience dryness or breakouts on their skin. Your nails may also grow faster, but they can be more brittle and prone to breaking.
• Respiratory and Cardiovascular System: As your uterus expands, it puts pressure on your diaphragm, which can make breathing more laboured. Your cardiovascular system is also working overtime to pump the increased blood volume through your body.
• Vaginal Discharge: It's normal to experience an increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy. This clear or milky-white discharge, known as leukorrhea, helps protect the birth canal from infection. If you notice any unusual odours, itching, or discomfort, be sure to mention it to your doctor.
• Uterus Size and Position: At 32 weeks, your uterus is about 13 cm or 5 inches above your belly button. As your baby grows and your uterus expands, you may feel more pressure on your bladder and experience frequent urges to urinate.
• Placenta Position: The placenta continues to provide essential nutrients and oxygen to your baby through the umbilical cord. In most cases, the placenta is located near the top of the uterus, away from the cervix. However, in some instances, the placenta may be low-lying or covering the cervix (placenta previa), which requires close monitoring and may affect your birth plan.
   

• Antenatal Appointments

  You'll likely have checkups every 2 to 3 weeks from now until your due date. Your midwife or doctor will measure your fundal height, check your blood pressure, and monitor your baby's heartbeat. It's important to attend all of your scheduled appointments and to voice any concerns or questions you may have.

• Ultrasound Scan

  Some women have a growth scan around 32 weeks to assess the baby's size and position. This scan can also check the amount of amniotic fluid and the location of the placenta.

• Blood Tests

  Your doctor may recommend blood tests to check for anaemia, gestational diabetes, or other conditions that can affect your pregnancy.