Welcome to week 33! You’ve gone through a lot and there isn’t long to go now. As you and your partner embark upon this rewarding journey as parents, you should feel proud.
We’ve created a simplified guide for expectant parents at week 33 of their pregnancy.
From head to heel, your baby is around 43.7cm long and said it’s about the size of a pineapple.
As your baby grows, he or she will have fully developed brains and nervous systems.
The majority of babies will arrive after their due date, but only one in twenty will arrive before.
Now is a good time to pack your bag, so you won’t be caught off guard if your baby decides to enter the world early.
There is a possibility that you will experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are like practice contractions. Despite their tightness, they shouldn’t be painful. Whenever they become painful or regular, contact your midwife.
Discuss a safe work environment with your employer. Lifting heavy objects should be avoided, and you may need extra breaks and a place to sit. It is also possible to attend antenatal appointments during your paid work hours.
As previously mentioned it’s common to experience mood swings, morning sickness and food cravings. All of these are to be expected but can be prepared for and handled with control. Headaches and backaches are also fairly common.
We’ve mentioned throughout the pregnancy week guides to make sure you’re moving around. Rest is important but also going for a walk and stretching is also crucial for your pregnancy journey. Exercise can help prevent leakage when you laugh, sneeze, or cough. Just be sure to only do gentle and light exercises.
Eating healthy is also a good idea which we’ve mentioned beforehand. In the third trimester, you only need an extra 200 calories a day.
Throughout the baby’s first year, the bones harden up, except for those in the skull, which will remain soft and separated until 12 to 18 months. Due to this slight flexibility in the head, it makes the journey down the birth canal a bit easier.
If you are feeling anxious, seek help. If you have any worries at all, it’s important to discuss your feelings with a professional or a loved one. In times of stress, having a midwife or doctor nearby is extremely helpful.
Everyone’s pregnancy experience is different. In case of questions or concerns, always seek the advice of a healthcare professional. We look forward to seeing you at this special event! Don’t miss out!
References
NHS |
https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/3rd-trimester/week-33/
