At 31 weeks pregnant, you’re well into the third trimester, with a growing belly that may make movement and breathing more challenging as space feels tighter. This growth can affect everyday tasks, often requiring small adjustments for comfort.
As your baby continues developing, increased pressure on your bladder might lead to more frequent bathroom trips.
Back pain and breathlessness are also common, and gentle stretches can help ease muscle tension, making self-care even more essential as you progress.
Find essentials with our maternity and nursing collection, tailored to support you through pregnancy and beyond.
Your Baby At 31 Weeks
At 31 weeks, your baby is about the size of a coconut, weighing over 3 pounds, and continuing to grow and develop essential abilities.
Facial Expressions
Your baby is now practicing various facial expressions, like frowning or smiling, as their facial muscles develop.
Positioning for Birth
By this stage, many babies are in the head-down position in preparation for birth, which is common around 31 weeks.
Hearing and Memory
Your baby can recognize familiar voices and sounds, enhancing brain development. Regular exposure to voices or music may support this growing ability.
Amniotic Fluid Protection
Amniotic fluid surrounds your baby, offering cushioning and protection, with ultrasounds providing a view of your baby's growth and position.
Antibody Development
Around 31 weeks, your baby begins absorbing antibodies through the placenta, strengthening their immune system for life outside the womb. This transfer peaks in the third trimester, offering essential protection against infections after birth.
Active Sensory Development
Movements like kicking and stretching are common, and your baby may respond to light and sound, showing active sensory engagement as they grow stronger each day.
Your Body At 31 Weeks Pregnant
At 31 weeks, your body continues to adapt to accommodate your growing baby.
Expanding Uterus
Your uterus has expanded significantly, placing added pressure on your bladder, which may result in more frequent bathroom trips as your baby grows.
Breast Fluid or Pre-Breast Milk
Your breasts may start to produce colostrum, the thick, nutrient-rich fluid that serves as the first stage of breast milk, preparing your body for feeding after birth.
Shifting Center of Gravity
As your belly expands and weight increases, your center of gravity shifts. This may affect your balance, so you may find yourself moving a bit more cautiously.
Skin Stretching
The rapid growth of your belly can lead to skin stretching, which may cause some itchiness. Regular moisturizing can help alleviate any discomfort as your skin adapts.
Pregnancy Symptoms At 31 Weeks
As you progress through the 31st week of pregnancy, you may notice a variety of physical symptoms as your body continues adjusting to support your growing baby. Here’s a breakdown of common experiences:
Frequent Urination
You might find yourself visiting the bathroom more often due to your expanding uterus placing pressure on your bladder.
Back Pain and Sciatica
As your baby grows, back strain is common, and you may also experience sciatica—pain that radiates down the leg from pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Sleep Discomfort
Physical discomfort may make sleep challenging, often accompanied by leg cramps at night. Supportive pillows and gentle stretching before bed can provide relief.
Shortness of Breath
Your expanding uterus may press on your lungs, reducing space and making it harder to take deep breaths.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
These "practice contractions" become more noticeable now and are typically irregular. If contractions become regular or painful, contact your healthcare provider to rule out preterm labor.
Constipation and Hemorrhoids
Hormonal changes slow digestion, which can lead to constipation. Drinking plenty of water may help, but increased pressure may also cause hemorrhoids.
Pregnancy Brain
You may experience forgetfulness, often referred to as "pregnancy brain," due to hormonal shifts.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Numbness or tingling in your hands may occur due to swelling that puts pressure on the median nerve.
Urinary Incontinence
Increased pressure on your bladder can lead to urinary incontinence. Kegel exercises can help strengthen your pelvic muscles to manage this.
Tips For A Healthy Pregnancy At 31 Weeks
At 31 weeks pregnant, staying healthy involves both taking care of your body and preparing for your baby's arrival. Here are some practical tips to support you through this stage.
Prenatal Massage and Yoga
Consider prenatal massage or yoga to ease back and pelvic pain, improve flexibility, and reduce stress. These activities can enhance comfort and relaxation.
Use a Pregnancy Pillow
A pregnancy pillow supports your growing bump, aligning your body to improve sleep quality and reduce discomfort. This can be especially helpful as sleep may become more challenging.
Enhance your sleep with a supportive pregnancy sleeping pillow, designed to align your body and reduce discomfort.
Regular Consultations
Continue regular visits with your midwife or doctor to monitor your baby's growth and address any concerns, ensuring both you and your baby stay healthy.
Plan for Birth
If you haven’t already, start discussing your birth plan with your healthcare provider. Think about who you’d like in the delivery room and pain management options to consider.
- Breastfeeding Preparation: Begin exploring breastfeeding techniques. Taking a class can make the process smoother and help you feel more prepared.
- Comfort Measures: Witch hazel pads can offer relief if hemorrhoids become an issue, providing soothing comfort.
Prioritize Rest
Make time for short naps and establish a bedtime routine to help improve sleep. Rest is key as your body supports the final stages of your pregnancy.
Sexual Intimacy
Sex is generally safe during pregnancy unless your doctor advises otherwise. Communicate openly with your partner to ensure both of you feel comfortable.
Prepare the Nursery
Setting up the crib and nursery can be a fun and productive way to feel ready for your baby's arrival. Creating a comfortable space can also help ease anxieties as the due date approaches.
Prepare for bonding on the go with an infant baby carrier, ideal for hands-free moments once your baby arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should you feel at 31 weeks pregnant?
During this time, you might feel more tired than usual. Backaches and leg cramps can be common. You may also notice your belly getting bigger as your baby grows.
Is 31 weeks 8 months pregnant?
At 31 weeks, you are in your 7th month of pregnancy. Pregnancy is often tracked by weeks, making it a bit confusing when comparing weeks to months.
Can a baby drop at 31 weeks?
A baby might begin to drop slightly at 31 weeks, but it's more common closer to 34-36 weeks. This is also known as "lightening" and can provide some relief from breathing difficulties.
Can labor start at 31 weeks?
It is possible for labor to begin at 31 weeks, but this is considered preterm. If you notice any signs of labor, such as regular contractions or water breaking, contact your doctor immediately.
Which way is my baby facing at 31 weeks?
By 31 weeks, your baby may already be in a head-down position, preparing for birth. However, some babies might still be in different positions, and this can change in the coming weeks.
Can a baby survive if born at 31 weeks?
A baby born at 31 weeks has a high chance of survival with medical support. Advances in medicine improve outcomes for preterm births, but a neonatal unit may be necessary for additional care.
