32 weeks into pregnancy Week
In week 32 of pregnancy, your baby continues to grow rapidly, while your body prepares for birth. Your baby may be in a head-down position by this time, but don’t panic if he or she hasn’t turned yet—there are still a few more weeks to go! Braxton Hicks contractions may be more frequent, and you may notice an increase in vaginal discharge. If you’re pregnant with multiples or your doctor deems it necessary, you can get a clearer look at your baby’s facial features with a 3D/4D ultrasound . This is also a great time to review your birth plan, set up the car seat, and pack your hospital bag!
What Is Your Baby Doing in Week 32?
Your baby is slowly getting ready to come down and is probably in a head-down position ! 🤸♂️ But he’s still moving around a lot, sometimes kicking so hard it feels like he’s doing karate chops to your insides! 🥋 😆
🎶 His hearing is now fully developed! : So now he can clearly hear not only your heartbeat and bowel sounds, but also music, conversations, and even loud noises from the outside world! He can even jump when he hears a sudden and loud noise! (A cute little reflex, right? 😍 )
🧠 His brain continues to develop rapidly and he can now detect light! If you shine a light on his belly, he may even open and close his tiny eyes to respond. It is even thought that babies’ memories begin to form this week! So you can already sing songs to him and make loving speeches. Even after he is born, he may remember these sounds and calm down! 💕
👶 Your baby’s cheeks are getting chubbier — that famous little baby chubby is forming!
🎀 His body is also rapidly storing fat , because he will need this fat to maintain his own body temperature when he is born. His current body weight is approximately 14% fat , but this will increase to 30% by the time he is born. So for now, your little one’s biggest job is: gaining weight! 🍩 😄
While your baby is growing and getting stronger inside, your excitement is increasing day by day, isn’t it? Very little time left! We are looking forward to it! 🥰 💖
How Big Is Your Baby at 32 Weeks?
Your 32-week-old little one is getting stronger and stronger, he is about 42-43 cm long and weighs around 1.7 – 1.9 kg . He has grown so much that there is no more room for him to move around comfortably in your womb!
Is Baby Fully Developed at 32 Weeks?
Yes, your baby’s development is almost complete! 🎉 His lungs are maturing rapidly , even imitating breathing movements to prepare for the afterbirth . But he still needs to gain a little more weight! Because if he is born at 32 weeks, his weight will be considered low birth weight and he may need intensive care support for a while . But don’t worry, your little lamb is getting stronger every day! 💪
How Many Months is 32 Weeks Pregnant?
32 weeks pregnant means approximately 8 months of pregnancy . But we should not forget that pregnancy is not 9 months, it actually lasts 40 weeks ! So there are only 8 weeks left to meet your baby! ⏳
32nd Week Ultrasound
Are you having a checkup at the doctor this week? Probably yes! 🩺 Because after week 32, most doctors call you for a checkup every two weeks . But not everyone gets an ultrasound —unless your doctor specifically wants to check something, you may not have an ultrasound this week.
👶 Things are a little different for mothers expecting twins ! Starting from the 30th week, your doctor may want to monitor the development of your babies more frequently . Details such as how their growth is going, whether their amniotic fluid levels are sufficient, can be examined additionally.
What’s Happening in Your Body During the 32nd Week of Pregnancy?
Oh, mommy! We are now approaching the peak of pregnancy and your body is showing it! 😅 But luckily, you are almost there to meet your baby! Here are some changes that await you this week:
🌊 Have Braxton Hicks contractions increased? : Yes, your uterus is rehearsing for labor ! 💪 These false contractions can sometimes be uncomfortable, but don’t worry, they are not regular and painful like real labor contractions. If they go away when you rest, there’s no problem, but if you have contractions that don’t stop and become regular, call your doctor immediately! 📞
🌰 Darker areolas? : Have you noticed a change when you look in the mirror? The area around your nipples has darkened! This is so that the baby can find them more easily when they are born! Isn’t nature amazing? 🌿 ✨
💨 Is it getting harder to breathe? : Your baby has grown a lot and is putting pressure on your internal organs! You may feel like your lungs have shrunk, but don’t worry, your little miracle is breathing very easily inside! Just don’t strain yourself too much and take frequent breaks. 🛋️
🔥 Is heartburn your friend? : Some foods (hot, spicy, oily) may upset you a little this week. If heartburn bothers you, eat small portions and avoid eating right before bed . You can also use a safe antacid after consulting your doctor! 💊
🥛 Has milk leakage started? : Hello, first breast milk! 🍼 You may notice a few drops of yellowish liquid (colostrum) leaking from your breasts. This is completely normal and will be your baby’s most valuable food in the first days! 💖
💦 Has your vaginal discharge increased? : Your body is preparing for birth! The amount of discharge may increase to protect your uterus from infections. But be careful! If you have a constant watery discharge, your water may have broken. Then call your doctor without delay! 🚑
How Does Your Belly Change in the 32nd Week of Pregnancy? 🤰 🎀
Your baby is growing, growing, growing! 😍 At 32 weeks pregnant, the distance between the top of your uterus and your pelvic bone should be around 30-34 cm. If you are expecting twins , this measurement will probably be larger and your belly may feel much heavier than usual.
💡 Is your baby turned head down?
At 32 weeks, the baby is likely to turn head down! 🍼 This is one of the stages of preparing for birth. If the upper part of the belly feels empty and the lower part feels full , your baby is most likely in the birth position. But remember, some babies may not make this turn until the last moment! 🌀
❓ Is it safe if I give birth at 32 weeks?
It’s not exactly full-term yet! Babies born before 37 weeks are considered premature. 🏥 If you’re born at 32 weeks, your baby may need to stay in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for a few weeks. But here’s the good news: The vast majority of babies born after 32 weeks continue to develop healthily! 💖 Under the supervision of doctors and a medical team, your baby is provided with everything he or she needs.
Tips for 32nd Week of Pregnancy 🌟
Only 8 weeks left until we meet the baby! ⏳ 😍 Here’s what you can do to prioritize your health and your baby this week:
🍽️ Eat little but often! : Are you suffering from heartburn or reflux? Avoid large portions and consume 5-6 small meals throughout the day. Limiting spicy and fatty foods can also help ease your stomach.
🪑 Stand up straight, breathe easily! : Yes, the baby is bigger now and is putting pressure on your lungs. You can make breathing easier and relieve back pain by keeping your spine straight.
🩲 Keep your underwear clean and dry! : Increased vaginal discharge is normal, but choosing cotton underwear and changing it when necessary will make you feel more comfortable. Also, if you notice a change in the color or smell of your discharge, consult your doctor.
🚶♀️ Take a light walk! : Are you feeling Braxton Hicks contractions? Walking a little can help relax your uterus. But remember, if the contractions become regular and don’t stop, it could be a sign of premature labor. Call your doctor right away! 📞
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
What kind of baby movements should I feel this week?
The baby’s movements may include kicks, turns and slight jerks. The frequency and intensity of the movements may vary from baby to baby.
Is frequent urination normal in the 32nd week of pregnancy?
Yes, during this period the pressure on the bladder increases due to the baby’s growth, which leads to the need to urinate more often.
Is insomnia normal at 32 weeks pregnant?
Yes, pregnancy hormones, physical ailments and increased anxiety levels can cause insomnia.
Do Braxton Hicks contractions occur in the 32nd week of pregnancy?
Some women may feel Braxton Hicks contractions during this period. These contractions are usually irregular and are not seen as a sign that labor is approaching.
Are there any special health tests I should do this week?
Usually no special tests are needed during this week, but your doctor may recommend regular health checks and additional tests as needed.
Checklist for Week 32 of Pregnancy ✅
🔹 Talk to your doctor about your birth plan! 🏥 : It’s time to clarify your preferences for your birth process! Are you considering an epidural? Who will be with you during the birth? Share everything with your doctor.
🔹 Call your health insurance company! 📞 : You may need to notify your insurance company about the birth of your baby. Find out what they cover and how to add your insurance to your health insurance after your baby is born.
🔹 Decide about cord blood banking! 🩸 : Do you want to store or donate your baby’s cord blood? You can make a decision by evaluating the benefits and costs.
🔹 Install the baby car seat! 🚗 👶 : To ensure your baby arrives home safely from the hospital, install the car seat and make sure it is positioned correctly.
You’re getting closer to the big day every day! 🥰 ⏳ ✨
