In the week 43, your baby is
the size of a Pineapple
Your baby is the size of a pineapple and growing fast! Expect more discomfort, swelling, and pressure. Braxton Hicks contractions may start as your body prepares for labor.
Welcome to week 33 of your pregnancy journey! As you enter the final stretch, your baby continues to grow and develop rapidly, preparing for birth. This week, you may experience a mix of anticipation and discomfort as your body adapts to accommodate your growing little one. Let's dive into the fascinating changes between you and your baby during this crucial period.
As your body accommodates your growing baby, you may experience some discomfort and changes:
Back and Pelvic Pain
The increasing weight of your baby can put extra pressure on your back and pelvis, causing discomfort. The hormone relaxin also loosens ligaments in the pelvis in preparation for birth, further contributing to this pain.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
You may feel your uterus tightening and relaxing more frequently as your body prepares for labour. These practice contractions are usually irregular and less intense than real labour ones.
Shortness of Breath
As your uterus expands and pushes against your diaphragm, you may find it harder to catch your breath. This is normal, but contact your doctor if it becomes unbearable.
Frequent Urination
Your growing baby puts pressure on your bladder, leading to more frequent trips to the loo. This is a common symptom that will likely persist until delivery.
Your little one is busy preparing for life outside the womb. Here's how they are doing at 33 weeks:
Organ Development
Your baby's lungs produce surfactant, which helps keep air sacs open and ready to breathe after birth. Their digestive system is also fully prepared to handle breast milk.
Physical Features
Your baby's eyes can now focus and blink, and their pupils can change size in response to light stimuli. Their toenails are visible, and for boys, the testicles are beginning to descend into the scrotum. Most of the soft, downy hair (lanugo) that covered your baby's skin has been shed.
Weight of the Foetus
Your baby is packing on the pounds, gaining about 200+ grams weekly. At 33 weeks, the average baby weighs around 2 kg and measures approximately 44 cm from head to heel. Remember that these are just averages; babies develop at their own pace.
Movement of the Baby
You'll likely feel your baby moving and squirming frequently, as there's still room to wiggle around. Your little one is practising important skills like sucking and swallowing, which will come in handy for feeding after birth.
At 33 weeks, your baby is almost ready to meet you! Trust in your strength and embrace every step of the journey. You're almost there, mama!
During week 33, your body undergoes significant changes to accommodate your growing baby. Here's what you can expect:
Breast Changes
As your body prepares for breastfeeding, you may notice your breasts feeling heavier and more tender. The areolas may also darken and enlarge.
Hair, Skin, and Nails
Hormonal changes can cause hair to grow faster and skin to become more sensitive. Your nails may also become softer or more brittle.
Respiratory and Cardiovascular System
The increased blood volume during pregnancy can lead to shortness of breath and occasional heart palpitations. This is normal, but discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Vaginal Discharge
An increase in clear or white vaginal discharge is common during pregnancy. However, if the discharge has a strong odour or causes itching, contact your doctor, as this could indicate an infection.
Uterus Size and Position
At week 33, your uterus is about the size of a large melon and sits at or just below your rib cage. Your uterus is about 5 inches or 13 cm above your belly button. As your baby grows, you may feel pressure under your ribs.
Placenta Position
The placenta, which supports your baby's growth and development, is usually positioned at the top or side of the uterus by this stage of pregnancy.
Oral Health
Pregnancy hormones can affect oral health, leading to gingivitis (swollen, bleeding gums), loose teeth, dry mouth, altered taste sensation, and increased risk of tooth decay. Some may also develop oral lesions, such as pregnancy tumours, which are red lumps on the gums.
Preterm signs
If you suspect early labour, read up on premature delivery and baby care essentials
Doctor check-in
If your contractions are 10 minutes apart, intensify, or cause pain, call your doctor
Labour signs
Track the interval between each contraction in an hour to understand labour progression.
Take it easy
Take care of yourself by cutting back on strenuous tasks and refraining from intercourse.
Early arrival
Discuss premature labour signs with the doctor to address concerns and get proper guidance.
If you haven’t had your bi-monthly prenatal checkup this month, you’ll likely have a visit scheduled with your doctor at week 33. These checkups are essential for monitoring your health and your baby’s growth and well-being. Here’s what to expect:
Ultrasound
If recommended, an ultrasound at week 33 helps assess fetal growth, amniotic fluid levels, placental position, and baby’s presentation (head down or breech). In high-risk pregnancies, a Doppler ultrasound may evaluate blood flow between the placenta and baby, ensuring adequate oxygen and nutrient supply.
Blood and Urine Tests
Blood tests may be recommended to screen for anaemia, infections, or other health conditions affecting pregnancy. A urine test is advised to check for infections, dehydration, or protein in urine, which could indicate preeclampsia.
Fetal Nonstress Test (NST)
This test may be done if you have a high-risk pregnancy, reduced fetal movements, or other medical concerns. It monitors your baby’s heart rate in response to movement, ensuring it is active and receiving sufficient oxygen. If results are inconclusive, further testing may be needed.
Yes, it's common to feel more fatigued and uncomfortable as your body supports your growing baby. Rest when you can, use pillows for support, and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
You should feel your baby move several times a day. If you notice a significant decrease in movement, contact your doctor immediately.
Yes, if your pregnancy is uncomplicated, you can continue exercising with modifications. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are generally safe. Always listen to your body and consult your doctor.
While it's generally safe to travel during pregnancy, long trips may be uncomfortable at this stage. Check with your doctor before planning any travel, and be aware of the location of hospitals at your destination.
Start preparing your hospital bag with essentials like comfortable clothing, toiletries, nursing bras, and items for your baby (e.g., going-home outfit, nappies, blankets). Don't forget your birth plan and any important medical information.
Attend breastfeeding classes, read about breastfeeding techniques, and consider purchasing nursing bras and breast pads. Remember, while breastfeeding is natural, it's a learned skill, and support is available.
Yes, Braxton Hicks contractions are common at this stage as your body prepares for labour. They are usually irregular and not as intense as real labour contractions. Contact your doctor if you have concerns.
Signs of preterm labour include regular contractions, abdominal cramps, back pain, pelvic pressure, and vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
