Third Trimester: 31 Weeks Pregnant

At 31 weeks pregnant, you’re well into the final trimester, with just nine weeks to go. This phase is all making preparations but also enjoying your motherhood. Both you and your baby are going through the ups and downs of your pregnancy together, so know that you are never alone. Here's what to expect at 31 weeks of pregnancy. Your Baby at 31 Weeks of Pregnancy Now that you are 31 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a coconut. Measuring 27.5 cm sitting and approximately 39 cm standing, your baby weighs around 1,500 grams. At this stage, your baby has the proportions of a newborn, and his organs are maturing in preparation for life outside the womb. Here's what's going on with your baby at 31 weeks of pregnancy: Digestive system: Your baby's liver producing bile to aid fat digestion and the pancreas producing hormones for blood sugar regulation. Excretion: Your baby's kidneys are filtering blood and producing urine, which is excreted into the amniotic fluid. Hormones: Your baby's adrenal glands are producing cortisol, a hormone crucial for lung development and surfactant production. Muscle mass: Muscle mass is increasing, and your baby is actively practising movements, kicks, and stretches. You might even see your belly moving. Appearance: Your baby’s belly is now round and firm, thanks to a busy liver producing red blood cells. Hiccups: Your baby's hiccups are more common now and may be strong enough to wake you. Response: Shining a light on your belly can prompt your baby to move, while pressing gently on your abdomen may elicit a playful kick in response. At 31 weeks, your baby is making significant strides towards full-term readiness, and every kick is a reminder of the life growing inside you. Your Body at 31 Weeks of Pregnancy Your body is working overtime to support your baby’s growth, but these changes can bring unique challenges. From hormonal shifts to physical discomforts, understanding what’s happening can help you manage this stage effectively. Here are some common pregnancy symptoms that you may experience now that you're 31 weeks pregnant: Increased salivation: Rising oestrogen levels can lead to excessive saliva production called ptyalism. Morning sickness and less frequent swallowing may worsen the condition. Staying hydrated and sucking on hard candies can help alleviate symptoms. Swelling: Your body produces up to 50% more blood and fluids during pregnancy. Fluid retention, particularly in the legs and feet, occurs as the uterus compresses pelvic veins. Genital changes: Hormonal changes and increased blood flow can cause your labia to swell and darken. These changes may make intercourse either more or less pleasurable depending on how they affect sensation. Carpal tunnel syndrome: Fluid retention can put pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, causing tingling, numbness, or weakness in the hands. Symptoms often resolve within six weeks postpartum as fluid levels normalise. If your foot swelling is getting to be too much, opt for comfortable, supportive footwear that are designed specifically for pregnancy. Elevate your legs whenever possible and consider using compression socks. Wrist braces can help alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms, especially at night. Gestational Hypertension and Pre-eclampsia Many new mothers may get confused about the difference between gestational hypertension and pre-eclempsia. The truth is they are related. Gestational hypertension refers to high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy and typically resolves after birth. In some cases, it can escalate into pre-eclampsia (when the doctor find excess protein in your urine), a serious condition requiring close monitoring. Here are the factors that may increase your chances of getting hypertension and pre-eclampsia: First-time pregnancies Maternal age over 35 History of high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia in previous pregnancies While you don't have to worried all the time about possibly getting these conditions, it's important to pay attention to your body. Here are some common warning signs that you may have pre-eclampsia: Persistent swelling (oedema) Protein in the urine High blood pressure Headaches or vision changes Rapid weight gain (e.g., 4.5–5.5 kg in five days) Pain under the ribs on the right side The risk factor of pre-eclempsia and gestational hypertension highlights the importance of going for your prenatal exams. Your doctor will always perform regular blood pressure and urine checks to ensure that you're healthy. Early detection is crucial for managing pre-eclampsia effectively and ensuring the best outcome for you and your baby. Preparing for Labour Labour is a natural process, but preparing emotionally and physically can make a significant difference in your experience. Now that you re 31 weeks pregnant, it's time to start thinking about labour. And there is no better way to start preparing is to practice relaxation techniques. Here's why it's so important to remain calm and collected before your labour begins: Fear and tension during labour can lead to the production of adrenaline, which inhibits oxytocin—the hormone responsible for uterine contractions. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and visualisation, can help you stay calm and promote the efficient progression of labour. Practical tips: Consider attending antenatal classes to learn about labour stages and pain management options. Pack a hospital bag with essentials well in advance. Discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider, including preferences for pain relief and interventions. Being informed and prepared can ease anxiety and help you feel more in control when labour begins. Time to Be Vigilant The 31st week of pregnancy is a time of incredible growth and anticipation. Your baby is rapidly maturing, perfecting skills, and developing organs that will sustain them after birth. Meanwhile, your body continues to adapt, managing the demands of pregnancy with remarkable resilience. As you navigate this transformative stage, focus on self-care, remember to stay informed about potential complications, and prepare for the exciting days ahead, mummies. You've got this! References Curtis, G. B., & Schuler, J. (2016). Your Pregnancy Week by Week (8th ed.). Hachette Books. Kaye, P. (2021). Your Pregnancy: Week by Week. SPCK Publishing. Riley, L. (2006). You and Your Pregnancy: Your Ultimate Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide. Meredith Books. Shanahan, M. K. (2002). Your Over-35 Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide. Da Capo Press Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner. For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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