My Pregnancy Week 31
Baby
Your baby continues to grow and develop inside of you. Measuring 16 inches long, she weighs 4 lbs. 4 whole pounds, wow! And from this week, until 2 weeks before birth, she will gain about a half pound every week.
As you've probably noticed, she is moving around quite a bit in there! It's not uncommon for her continuous movements, which may feel like somersaults, to be keeping you up at night. Her arms, legs, and body are also filling out as she continues to develop fat underneath her skin, making those kicks and prods feel even stronger than last week. You may even see an arm or a foot move slowly across your belly!
Mom
How are you feeling? Braxton Hicks contractions are common towards the end of a pregnancy. These contractions, often referred to as "false-labor", usually only last about 30 seconds, occur infrequently, and should be painless. Frequent contractions however, may be a sign of preterm labor.
Call you health-care provider if you experience...
- More than four contractions in an hour
- An increase or change in vaginal discharge
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Increase in pressure in the pelvic area
- Low back pain, especially if you haven't experienced it before
These may all be signs of pre-term labor and it is important that you contact your practitioner.
Have you noticed? Is there any leakage from your breasts? This is called colostrum, or "premilk". You can place nursing pads in your bra to absorb this fluid. Even if you don't see anything, your breasts are making colostrum, and you also may find that your bra is fitting a little more snug than usual. You might want to get a nursing bra, but be sure to get one a size larger than you need now. Trust me; you'll be thankful for the room later.