How Big is Your Baby?
In the week 31 of your pregnancy, the baby is 15.2 to 16.7 inches long and it weighs 2.5 to 3.8 pounds. The baby is getting bigger and is crowding your lungs.
Baby's growth and development
During the 31st week of pregnancy, the baby undergoes some major brain as well as nerve development. The eye development also takes place at this stage. Baby's iris can now react to light! Also, the five senses are working well.
Mother's Development
Changes You Experience
The mother continues with a steady weight gain of around ¼ to ½ pound each week. The uterus has grown so much by this time that it starts pressing against the diaphragm. This can trouble many women by causing breathlessness.
Braxton Hicks contractions may become common now. They can start as early as the second trimester, but are extremely common now. These contractions may last from 30 seconds to 2 minutes, and help the body adapt to the actual labor situation.
Pre-milk or colostrum may start leaking from breasts. This is a thick milk-like substance that is produced in breast from now on to 2 to 3 days after the baby is born. As a result of the loose ligaments and ever rising body weight, the female can experience thigh pain, backache and even hip pain.
Complications
Haemorrhoids can be quite painful and itchy. To minimize the discomfort, try placing baking soda on the affected area, and use lime juice or witch hazel to reduce the itching and bleeding. Also, as far as possible, stay away from heavy foods to avoid constipation. Get your third trimester ultrasound (sonogram) done to confirm the baby’s position for the probable delivery date.
Diet
In the third trimester, the woman’s diet should not contain any junk food. It must be balanced and highly nutritious. For the health of the baby, it is essential that you include folic acid, iron, calcium and fiber in your diet. Never forget taking your prenatal vitamins to complete the body’s requirement of nutrients. Eat in small proportions to keep constipation at bay.
Calculate Your Due Date ?