Welcome to week 31. Can you believe all five of baby’s senses are fully developed? He also keeps getting smarter. That’s probably good to know, since you might actually feel a little dumb. You’re not! It’s just that many moms-to-be find themselves acting absentmindedly during the third trimester. Some say that “pregnancy brain” isn’t a proven physical ailment, but can you think of another time in your life when you’ve had more on your mind than now? We’re guessing no. That right there is enough of a reason to be so forgetful. From 31 weeks on, you’re bound to feel a lot of the same symptoms — some may get worse, some may become bearable. And you might start to have more trouble getting around as you get heavier and feel more and more short of breath. Remember not to push yourself too much. It’s good for you and baby to get some exercise, but definitely take breaks to rest as much as you need.
Your baby’s the size of a pineapple!
He’s about 15.2 to 16.7 inches long and weighs about 2.5 to 3.8 pounds this month. He’s getting so big, he’s probably crowding your lungs.
Your baby at 31 weeks
- He’s going through major brain and nerve development.
- Eye development, too. His irises now react to light!
- All five of his senses are in working order.
Pregnancy symptoms at 31 weeks
- Out of breath, since baby keeps squishing your lungs.
- Dry, brittle nails, thanks to all that extra nail growth.
- Braxton Hicks contractions. Be sure you’re drinking plenty of water and changing positions often.
- Leaky boobs. That’s baby’s first food, called colostrum.
- Frequent urination. Your bladder’s just as crowded as your lungs.
- Back aches. Be sure to keep stretching.
- Difficulty sleeping. Aches and pains, your big belly, pregnancy hormones, heartburn and anxiety are probably all contributing.
Your must-do’s
- Don’t forget to schedule your bi-monthly prenatal visit to the OB, if you haven’t already.
Your nice-to-do’s
- Make sure you have a plan for getting to the hospital once you go into labor.
- Buy a baby book.
