Third Trimester: 30 Weeks Pregnant - December 2024

At 30 weeks pregnant, you’re well into the third trimester, with just ten weeks to go before meeting your little one.

Each day brings you closer to holding your bundle of joy while presenting unique challenges and memorable milestones.

Here’s your progress at 30 weeks of pregnancy.

Your Baby at 30 Weeks of Pregnancy

Now that you’re 30 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a head of cabbage, weighing around 1.3 kg.

They are now measuring 27 cm from crown to rump and approximately 40 cm in total length.

Your baby is growing rapidly and getting ready for the outside world.

Here are some other exciting developments they’re going through at 30 weeks of pregnancy:

Movement: Babies are typically very active during this time. While rare, some movements can even result in knots forming in the umbilical cord, though this isn’t something you can control or prevent.
Light sensitivity: Your baby’s eyes are wide open now and can follow a strong light shining on your belly. If you spend time in the sun, your baby sees a red-orange glow filtered through your abdominal wall.
Hair growth: Depending on genetic factors, your baby might already have a full head of hair, though lanugo (fine body hair) is now shedding.
Skin and fat: While your baby is filling out, their skin remains somewhat wrinkled as fat continues to accumulate.
Bone marrow: The bone marrow has taken over red blood cell production from the spleen, marking an important step in development.
Brain: Your baby’s brain is nearly as developed as a newborn’s, forming critical neural connections for speech and memory.
Eye colour: Most babies have blue eyes at this stage, but their final colour may change after birth with exposure to natural light.

As your baby gains weight your baby’s movements will become more noticeable as space in your womb becomes limited.

This may feel a bit uncomfortable at times, but it’s a good opportunity to let your spouse finally feel your baby move.

Your Body at 30 Weeks of Pregnancy

Your body is undergoing numerous changes as it accommodates your growing baby.

While many of these are expected, they can still present discomforts that require attention and care.

Now that you are 30 weeks pregnant, here’s what’s going on with your body on the inside:

Uterine discomfort: Your uterus continues to grow, leading to sensations of fullness or stabbing pains when you change positions.
Diastasis recti: The abdominal muscles may separate in the middle due to the stretching uterus, but this isn’t harmful to you or your baby.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: Tingling, numbness, or pain in your hands and wrists can result from swelling compressing nerves. Typing or gripping objects become more difficult.
Lightning crotch: Your baby’s position may accidentally press on the wrong nerve and cause sharp, zinging pains in your pelvis or legs.
Constipation: Hormones and uterine pressure slow digestion, causing cramps or difficulty passing stools.

As your pregnancy progresses, these symptoms remind you of the incredible changes your body is undergoing to nurture new life.

Preterm Labour

Preterm labour refers to contractions occurring before 37 weeks that lead to cervical dilation or effacement.

If the cervix remains unchanged, it is likely preterm contractions rather than true labour.

Here are the list of criteria that may increase the chances of preterm labour:

Multiple Pregnancies: If you’re carrying twins, triplets, etc.
History: Those with a family or personal history of preterm delivery.
Infections: Conditions like bacterial vaginosis can increase the risk.
Conditions: Having gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
Symptoms to Watch: Contractions that don’t subside with rest or hydration. Changes in vaginal discharge, such as increased volume or unusual colour.

If you suspect preterm labour, contact your healthcare provider immediately for evaluation.

Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure both your and your baby’s safety.

Preventing Preterm Labour

If you do not fit into any of the aforementioned criteria, don’t worry. The chances of you having a preterm labour will be very low.

However, if you wish to observe some preventative measures, you can; just to put your mind at ease.

The two main advice is to always stay hydrated and to avoid stress as much as possible.

Dehydration has been known to trigger preterm contractions as well as high levels of cortisol.

So, be sure to drink plenty of fluids (even though it means getting up to go to the toilet every few hours), and to practice mindfulness and meditation whenever you have the time.

Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge increases naturally during pregnancy as your body produces more cervical mucus.

You may find that there is a much heavier flow now that you’re 30 weeks pregnant.

While discharge is normal, you must still keep an eye on it.

Here’s how to tell between a normal discharge and an abnormal discharge:

Normal Discharge: Clear or white, with mild odour to odourless.
Abnormal Signs: Thick, smelly, watery, or coloured discharge. Itchy or lumpy discharge resembling cottage cheese (indicative of thrush).

If you find that your discharge fits under the ‘abnormal’ category, it’s time to head to the doctor straight away.

There could be multiple reasons why your body is releasing abnormal discharge.

They often include bacterial vaginosis and thrush:

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): BV can increase the risk of premature labour if left untreated. Symptoms include a fishy smell and greyish discharge.
Thrush: Common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Easily treated with antifungal medication.

While seldom life-threatening with prompt medical attention, abnormal discharge can cause various pregnancy complications that would otherwise be avoided.

Proper treatment ensures a healthy pregnancy and reduces risks to both you and your baby.

Making Headway

The 30th week of pregnancy is a significant milestone as you edge closer to meeting your baby.

Though challenges like carpal tunnel syndrome, nerve pain, or changes in discharge may arise, understanding what’s normal and when to seek help can ease your worries.

Cherish this stage as you prepare for the final stretch of your pregnancy journey—your baby is almost here, mummies!

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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