Pregnancy timeline : 29-32 weeks

Pregnancy week 29You’re now into the final three months of your pregnancy. Your womb has grown so much that there is less room in your abdomen

You

Your baby

Things to do
You’re now into the final three months of your pregnancy. Your womb has grown so much that there is less room in your abdomen for your other organs, such as your intestines and your stomach. You may find that you can only eat small amounts at a time because your stomach is so squashed.If you’re already getting heartburn it may get worse, or if you haven’t had it so far, you may start to do so.

The top of your womb is also pushing your diaphragm up, so there’s less room for your lungs to expand when you breathe. This can make you reathless, especially when you do things like climb stairs or run for the bus. Your ribs might also feel sore
from the baby pushing – or kicking – against them. The increasing weight of your baby and
womb is putting a strain on your pelvic floor, which can lead to stress incontinence. You may
also suffer from cramp in your legs.

You may notice some colostrum (the first ‘milk’ that your breasts produce) leaking from
your breasts, or you may be able to squeeze some out. Don’t worry if you can’t – it doesn’t mean that it isn’t there.

The practice (or raxton Hicks) contractions
that have been happening in your womb throughout your pregnancy tend to become more noticeable in the later stages. You may start to feel them now if you haven’t already, or to feel them more strongly if you have. If you can’t feel them, don’t worry.

You may well be feeling more tired now, especially towards the end of the day, and need to rest more.

Click here to find out about other minor discomforts

 Your baby’s head is now the same size in proportion to his body as it will be when he is born. The baby is still moving vigorously, and you may be able to see the shape of a foot or elbow against your tummy when he kicks. He is gradually becoming plumper, as more fat is forming under his skin. In the UK, the beginning of week 29 is the earliest time you can start your maternity leave.Start planning ahead for labour. Make a list of things you want to take into hospital with you or that you’ll need for a home birth. Practise
positions for labour – with your birth partner if you can. Get your birth partner to
try out some massage, too. When you’re resting, practise relaxing and breathing deeply. Above all, talk with your birth partner about labour. Tell each other your hopes, fears and expectations.
How do you anticipate that he or she will help? Does your birth partner feel ready to give this help?

If you’re planning to have your baby in hospital, find out about making a tour of the
maternity unit.

If you can, spend some time with a friend with a young baby to get an idea of what it’s really like.

Your antenatal appointments should be more frequent now.

All pregnancies are different, so don’t worry if you’re not experiencing everything
exactly as it says here.

Reviewed by babyworld midwife Hannah Hulme Hunter

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