This is an exciting milestone, mums! You’re official 33 weeks pregnant.
Your baby is putting the finishing touches on their development, and your body is adapting to the final weeks before birth.
It’s a time of significant physical and emotional changes, and understanding these can help you prepare for the arrival of your little one.
From baby’s growth to your own bodily transformations, here’s what you need to know about week 33 of pregnancy.
Your Baby at 33 Weeks of Pregnancy
Now that you’re 33 weeks pregnant, your baby is roughly the size of a pineapple, measuring around 44 cm and weighing between 1.9 and 2 kilograms.
This period is known as the ‘finishing stage’, where your baby’s organs, bones, and bodily systems continue to mature in preparation for life outside the womb.
Here’s what else is going on with your baby’s development at 33 weeks of pregnancy:
- Breathing practice: Your baby’s diaphragm is in training as they practice breathing by swallowing and releasing amniotic fluid. This movement strengthens the lungs for their first breaths after birth.
- Brain development: The connections between neurons and synapses in your baby’s brain are rapidly forming, laying the groundwork for skills they’ll need as an infant, such as sucking and grasping.
- Bones and skull: While your baby’s bones are hardening, the skull remains flexible and not fully fused. This flexibility is essential for a smoother journey through the birth canal.
- Fingernails: By now, your baby’s fingernails reach or even extend beyond the tips of their fingers, and though soft, they’re sharp enough to cause tiny scratches.
Despite their increasing size and strength, your baby’s amniotic environment offers just enough room for essential movements that promote healthy development.
Your Body at 33 Weeks of Pregnancy
As your baby grows, your body continues to adapt to the demands of late pregnancy.
Some women carry their bump low, others high; some appear pregnant only from the front, while others notice changes all around.
These variations are entirely normal and depend on factors like your baby’s position and your body type.
Each woman’s experience is unique, with different ways of carrying the pregnancy and varying symptoms.
Here’s what’s happening with your body now that you’re 33 weeks pregnant:
- Swelling: Swollen fingers, hands, ankles, and legs are common at this stage due to water retention and increased fluid volume in your body. To manage swelling, avoid standing for long periods and keep your feet elevated when possible.
- Varicose veins: Dilated veins, caused by increased blood volume, can result in visible varicose veins in your legs
- Vulvar varicosities: You may also experience varicose veins in your vulva, giving them a dark appearance. If you are experiencing discomfort, an ice pack should bring some relief. These veins typically improve after delivery.
The symptoms of the previous weeks may still be lingering such as indigestion, heartburn, fatigue, insomnia, pelvic pain, round ligament pain, ‘lightning crotch’, and stress incontinence.
By this point, it’s vital to listen to your body, rest when needed, and seek support for any discomforts you experience.
The Nesting Instinct
As you near your due date, you might feel an overwhelming urge to prepare your home for your baby’s arrival—a phenomenon known as the nesting instinct.
You may even begin to start furiously cleaning the house (and even getting rid of dangerous items or unhealthy food that may find around the house).
Your partner may be a little surprise at your sudden burst of energy and excitement. But this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Here are some pointers about how to manage your nesting instinct:
- Baby Essentials: Stock up on essentials like a crib, bedding, changing table, stroller, diapers, and baby clothes. If you prefer cloth diapers, purchase them early and wash them several times before use.
- Overbuying: Resist the temptation to buy everything you see. Make a baby shower wish list to help save on expenses and ensure you get the items you truly need.
- Organisation: Use this time to organise your nursery, prepare a hospital bag, and plan meals for the postpartum period.
- Shop smart: Quality before quantity. Make sure you do your research when buying things like car seats or cribs. Check for flaws or malfunctions if you’re getting them secondhand.
Nesting is a productive way to channel your excitement and ensure you’re prepared for your little one’s arrival.
You may have already experienced nesting instinct a few weeks ago, or if not, you may begin to feel it coming in the very near future.
Enjoy this time to truly enjoy being a mother.
Diet Considerations
Proper nutrition is more important than ever at 33 weeks, as your baby continues to grow and develop. Focus on foods rich in essential nutrients like DHA and calcium, and consume an additional 200–300 calories per day.
- Safe Food Practices:
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
- Avoid raw eggs and dishes containing them; ensure eggs are fully cooked with firm yolks.
- Reheat leftovers thoroughly and refrigerate promptly.
- Keep your refrigerator clean and set it to 40°F (4°C) or below, with your freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
- Calcium and DHA Sources: Incorporate dairy products, fortified plant-based milk, leafy greens, and fatty fish into your diet to support your baby’s bone and brain development.
Adhering to food safety and dietary guidelines helps protect both you and your baby during this critical phase of pregnancy.
The Final Stages
At 33 weeks, your journey is nearing its final stage. Your baby is putting the finishing touches on their development, while your body continues to adapt to the demands of late pregnancy.
This is the perfect time to prepare for labour, organise your home, and focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Embrace these remaining weeks as a time of anticipation and joy—you’re just a few short weeks away from welcoming your little one into the world!
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.
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