Pregnancy Calendar at Week 31
What's Happening with the Baby
- The baby is now fully formed and visually resembles a tiny human. The final stage of developing vital organs begins. The body is actively preparing for life outside the mother's womb;
- The baby's body weight reaches about three and a half pounds. Its height increases daily by a few millimeters. Currently, it measures around 16 inches;
- The active stage of cognitive development begins due to the daily increase in brain cells. The baby learns to respond to light, voice, and touches on the belly. Through these actions, it learns to experience positive or negative emotions;
- At the beginning of the seventh month, the eye color is determined. Pigment starts to accumulate in the iris. The baby blinks and reacts to bright light sources;
- Surfactant production begins – a substance required for the proper expansion and function of the newborn's lungs. The maturation stage of the alveoli in the respiratory system is completed;
- The pancreas and liver are actively testing their functions. Insulin production and bile secretion are not yet established but will soon be actively performed;
- The baby's daily routine is established by the 31st week. The schedule may differ from the mother's, and some women notice increased fetal activity during periods of rest, which is normal.
What's Happening with Mom
By the 31st week, most women are already on maternity leave. This is the time when you can fully dedicate yourself to your new state. The final stage of the baby's development requires special attention, as the baby is now learning to interact with the mother. Considering that the baby is now fully formed and continuously gaining weight and size, pregnant women can expect some changes.
Practice or Braxton Hicks Contractions
One of the main new sensations is the periodic contractions of the uterus, which occur several times a day. These contractions help the body prepare for labor. During these contractions, a woman feels her belly change shape, as if it has tightened and become very hard. The baby tends to become still during these moments. Practice contractions do not follow a specific schedule. They occur at different intervals and do not cause significant discomfort.
Changes in the Breasts
By 31 weeks, a woman's breasts have significantly increased in size. At this stage, the nipple becomes pigmented. The areola darkens, and Montgomery glands become more prominent. Many expectant mothers in the seventh month also notice that their breasts are leaking a fluid called colostrum, which will be the baby's first food. This often causes discomfort as it soaks through clothing and leaves stains. To alleviate this issue and make things more comfortable, it is recommended to use disposable breast pads.
Body Changes
The size of the belly continues to grow. The woman's condition is noticeable to everyone around her. The average belly circumference at 31 weeks is about 33-35 inches. The fundus of the uterus rises above the pelvic cavity to a height of 30-31 cm. Many moms find that their belly button starts to protrude during this period. In some cases, this can be accompanied by painful sensations. It is essential to see a surgeon to rule out an umbilical hernia. The pelvic bones begin to gradually separate, causing discomfort and making the walk even more awkward.
Changes in Appearance
This period is accompanied by fluid retention in the soft tissues. This is especially noticeable when a healthy diet is not followed and a large amount of salt is consumed. The nose becomes swollen and may be associated with a potato. Lips become fuller and more sensual. In the mornings, the expectant mother may notice puffiness under her eyes, which indicates kidney function issues. At 31 weeks, hair shines and looks healthy. Few pregnant women at 7 months already experience hair loss. Usually, this process begins after childbirth due to hormonal changes.
Emotional State at 31 Weeks
At this stage, a woman loses the fear that something bad might happen to the baby. If the baby is born at this time, it will be considered a premature birth, not a miscarriage. New worries replace the old ones. First-time mothers experience fear of the unknown. They don't know what to expect, but they clearly understand that it will be quite painful. The maternal instinct is already starting to actively manifest, prompting the woman to spend more time at home, prepare for the important meeting with the baby, and buy the necessary items for the child.
Physical Activity
By the 31st week, the expectant mother's belly no longer allows her to lead an active lifestyle. The extra 13-18 pounds gained by this time are making their presence felt. It becomes difficult to get out of bed, bend over, and do some household chores. Due to the widening of the pelvic bones, a woman may feel discomfort while walking.
Digestive System and Food Cravings
The functioning of the digestive tract can cause various sensations for expectant mothers. The cavity of the reproductive organ has already reached the stomach and may be "pressing" against it. One of the most common complaints at 31 weeks is heartburn. The unpleasant burning sensation behind the sternum results from the growing belly and overeating. By the 31st week, a woman no longer has early toxemia, but specific food cravings may arise. The reason is a deficiency of vitamins and minerals in the body.
Medical Check-Up
Doctor visits become more frequent at 31 weeks. If previously the expectant mother visited the gynecologist once every two weeks, now she will need to go for a consultation weekly. This is necessary to monitor the patient's health, weight gain, and the processes happening with the baby.
Doctors
- Therapist – it's time to visit this doctor again to assess the functioning of vital organs;
- Geneticist – after the triple screening, the expectant mother may need a consultation with a geneticist;
- Gynecologist – during the appointment, the doctor will measure the expectant mother's abdomen and weight, as well as check blood pressure levels.
Tests
- Urine test – the result shows the functioning of the urinary system and rules out dangerous diseases;
- Blood test – provides information on hemoglobin, platelets, sugar, and other important criteria;
- Vaginal swab – shows the state of the microflora and rules out infectious diseases.
Examinations
- Ultrasound – at 31 weeks, it's time for another scan to determine the size and parameters of the fetus for this term;
- CTG – listening to the baby's heartbeat helps rule out pregnancy complications.
Pregnancy Challenges
At 31 weeks, the list of pregnancy challenges shortens compared to earlier stages of pregnancy.
Miscarriage
The risk of miscarriage is minimal, but it still exists. Causes of fetal demise can include intrauterine anomalies, sepsis, infections, and exacerbations of chronic diseases. Preterm labor. Labor at 31 weeks is considered preterm. The baby will be able to breathe independently, but will require intensive care after birth.
Placental Abruption
A dangerous complication that is accompanied by internal bleeding and can be fatal. It occurs more frequently in patients with pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, preeclampsia, and arterial hypertension.
Exacerbation of Reproductive System Pathologies
At 31 weeks, another vaginal swab is taken. It may show an increase in white blood cells. Inflammatory diseases in an acute form can lead to the development of intrauterine infection.
Cervical Insufficiency
Premature dilation of the internal os often results from uterine hypertonicity. If the problem is detected, the woman is hospitalized, prescribed complete bed rest, and given medication therapy. At this stage, every day of pregnancy is crucial for the baby's development, so efforts are made to prolong the pregnancy as much as possible.
Second Half of Pregnancy Preeclampsia
A serious condition that requires hospitalization and, if left untreated, can lead to the death of the child. With preeclampsia, the expectant mother experiences swelling on the body and face, a significant increase in body weight, and elevated blood pressure levels.
Gestational Diabetes
This diagnosis is not often given to women, but it is a dangerous condition for both the expectant mother and her baby. Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy due to underlying health issues or can result from poor diet. Congenital diabetes in children is difficult to treat.
What You Can and Can't Do
At 31 weeks, a woman is on the home stretch. There's just a little time left before meeting the baby. She can still focus on herself and accomplish what she has planned. After the baby is born, there will be hardly any time for personal interests.
What an Expectant Mom CAN Do:
- Continue taking vitamins. Supplements can replenish the missing nutrients necessary for the baby's continued development;
- Take medications if prescribed by a doctor. At 31 weeks, treatments for intimate area inflammations, anemia, constipation, the threat of preterm labor, and other conditions may be administered;
- Engage in a favorite hobby. Often, women abandon their hobbies early in pregnancy. If the hobby doesn't involve physical activity, more time can be devoted to it after going on maternity leave;
- Take daily walks. Moderate walking positively affects the pelvic organs. Activity boosts circulation and helps the pelvic bones to separate smoothly and painlessly;
- Learn something new. There are still about 2.5-3 months left before the baby arrives. During this time, you can pick up a new skill. For example, you could learn to drive a car or take a marketing course. This could be very useful during your maternity leave;
- Enroll in a childbirth preparation class. Since most of the fears expectant mothers have are related to the birthing process, it's a good idea to take preparatory courses. In these classes, you'll learn how to breathe properly, behave appropriately during labor, and get the basics of newborn care.
What an expectant mother SHOULD NOT do:
- Eat junk food. Even though you'll need to follow a diet after giving birth, you shouldn't let yourself go now. Unhealthy food negatively affects the functioning of vital organs;
- Take medication without consulting a doctor. Even if you suddenly get a headache, you shouldn't take the first pills you find. Some active ingredients can lead to complications;
- Make sudden movements. They can cause dizziness and lead to fainting;
- Bend over and lift heavy objects. At 31 weeks, your back is already under increased strain. Careless bending and lifting heavy items increase the risk of pinching nerve endings;
- having fun like before. In the early stages of pregnancy, you could still enjoy wild parties. After 31 weeks, it's necessary to reconsider your lifestyle. More time should be dedicated to rest and getting a full night's sleep;
- doing certain cosmetic procedures. Any procedures that can cause pain are off-limits: waxing, permanent makeup, tattoos. It's also important to be cautious with procedures that involve cutting or piercing tools, like traditional manicures and pedicures.
Proper Nutrition
Due to increased pressure from the uterus on the stomach and intestines, it's important to follow dietary guidelines. Here are the main recommendations for the 31st week:
- Eat small portions. This helps food digest properly.
- Drink water between meals. It speeds up metabolism and suppresses appetite.
- Eat at least 4-6 times a day. Frequent meals provide the body with essential nutrients and don't overburden the digestive system.
- Consume dairy products daily. They are necessary to replenish calcium levels and positively affect digestion.
- Include a sufficient amount of protein in every meal. It maintains body tone and prevents the formation of subcutaneous fat.
- Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits. These foods contain dietary fiber essential for normal function.
Helpful Tips
At 31 weeks, it's important to pay attention not only to your waking hours but also to your sleep. A pregnancy pillow can help you find a comfortable position. It's better to sleep on your side to avoid compressing the vena cava. If you don't have a pregnancy pillow, you can use a regular feather pillow and place it between your knees. Sleeping in this position will be much more comfortable.
Exercises for Expecting Moms
At thirty-one weeks, it becomes challenging to keep up with fitness routines. However, you shouldn't completely give up on exercise:
- Swimming has a positive impact on the body of the expectant mother. It stabilizes the respiratory system, lowers blood pressure, strengthens the heart, and improves circulation.
- To relieve pressure on the kidneys and the lumbar-sacral spine, you should periodically get on all fours. In this position, the belly hangs down and stops pressing on the internal organs. This improves blood circulation in the gastrointestinal tract and pelvis, and relieves the urinary system.
- Daily exercise is essential for easing back pain. Gentle bends, stretching, and breathing exercises help alleviate discomfort for the expectant mother and improve overall well-being.
Discomforts During Pregnancy
Stomach Cramps
Painful sensations in the stomach can seriously worsen your condition. It's crucial to see a doctor right away to determine the cause of the cramps. They could be caused by intestinal or kidney colic, Braxton Hicks contractions, or liver pathologies.
Heaviness in the Legs
Pulsing, numbness, and cramps most often occur in the evening. The reason is increased stress on the legs and veins of the lower extremities. To alleviate discomfort, you can use compression stockings and elevate your legs above heart level more frequently. It's also important to choose comfortable shoes made from high-quality, natural materials.
Headaches
Heaviness in the head at 31 weeks can be triggered by a lack of sleep. After getting a medical leave, expectant mothers dream of catching up on sleep. However, you shouldn't sleep more than 9 hours a day, as this can also lead to periodic headaches. It's necessary to normalize your daily routine, wake up and go to bed at the same time, and take frequent walks in the fresh air. Another cause of headaches could be arterial hypertension.
Swelling
Up to 90% of women at 31 weeks experience swelling. For most expectant moms, it's caused by poor diet and consumption of unhealthy foods. Swelling can also be a result of kidney disease, preeclampsia in the second half of pregnancy, or venous insufficiency. It's important to inform your gynecologist about any complaints.
Increased Fatigue
As the pregnancy progresses, the expectant mom's productivity decreases. At 31 weeks, women often complain of weakness, shortness of breath, and quick exhaustion. These complaints can be a normal consequence of pregnancy or the first symptom of iron-deficiency anemia.
Tachycardia
An increased heart rate in the seventh month is due to the added strain on the heart. This muscle has to pump a large volume of blood, so expectant moms might notice their pulse reaching 90-100 beats per minute while at rest. Most of the time, this isn't dangerous, but it's worth consulting a cardiologist.
Discharge
Throughout pregnancy, expectant moms should pay attention to vaginal discharge. At 31 weeks, it may become cottage cheese-like with a sour smell. This indicates a yeast infection and requires treatment. If the discharge becomes colored and has an unpleasant odor, it could be due to an inflammatory process or infection.
Constipation
More than half of women at 31 weeks experience constipation. This is caused by increased pressure from the uterus on the intestines. It's important to understand that as the pregnancy progresses, the problem will likely get worse. Therefore, it's crucial to take steps to address it now. To treat constipation, a diet with plenty of fluids is recommended, and if that doesn't help, lactulose-based medications are suggested.
Checklist
- Get a doctor's note and give it to your employer. Within a few days, your boss will pay out your maternity leave benefits.
- Go for the third trimester screening and find out the results. Consult with a geneticist if necessary.
- Plan where your baby will sleep during the first few months. Co-sleeping or separate sleeping? Feeding on demand or on a schedule?
- Look for a stroller. It should be maneuverable and convenient.
- Start buying baby items. It's better to prepare for the birth in advance so that dad doesn't have to run around baby stores in a panic later.
- Pack a "go-bag." Even though there are still 2-3 months until the due date, it's a good idea to be ready for an unexpected trip to the hospital.
