At 33 weeks of pregnancy, as you move into the eighth month of pregnancy, the skin of the little one is becoming smoother, and the bones becoming hard. The baby, by week 33, reaches the height it usually measures at birth and gains nearly 225gms every week until birth.
Pregnancy symptoms observed in expecting mothers this week- frequent urination, leg cramps, wrist pain, itchy skin will need management with certain tips and measures.
This article explores the baby’s growth, pregnancy symptoms, and tips for pregnant mothers to take care of at week 33 of pregnancy.
Also Read: https://pregajunction.com/blog/week-32-of-pregnancy/
In this Article
Baby’s Development @ Week 33 of Pregnancy
The baby, at week 33, is almost 43.7cm long and weighs approximately 1.9kgs. The baby is occupying more space in the uterus, and the amniotic fluid levels have reached their peak. Less cushioning and more profoundly felt kicks and punches. The baby’s developments lined at week 33 of pregnancy are:
Hardening of bones
The baby’s bones get hardened this week of pregnancy except for the bones of the skull, which remain soft and flexible enough to slide through first during delivery.
Developing immune system
As the baby develops its immune system, the mother passes the antibodies through the placenta. The uterine walls grow thinner, allowing the penetration of light. The little one can differentiate between day and night and prominently shut and open the eyelids.
The baby takes in small amounts of amniotic fluid into its stomach, preparing the gastrointestinal tract for the foods of the outside world.
Mom-to-be @ Week 33 of pregnancy
Mothers-to-be experience sharper kicks from the baby and shortness of breath due to the growing tummy and crowding around the lungs. Some of the pregnancy symptoms expected at week 33 of pregnancy include:
- Heartburns and indigestion issues
- Frequent urination, even during midnight
- Insomnia
- Leg cramps
- Varicose veins
- Backaches
- Tiredness
- Strong fetal movements
- Brittle and fast-growing nails
- Round ligament pain
- Forgetful foggy brain
- Braxton Hicks contractions
- Shortness of breath
Things to consider at week 33 of pregnancy
Your visit to the doctor is closely scheduled as the day for delivery is less than 8 weeks from now. You are likely to have a sonography scan during the third trimester for the doctor to understand the baby’s position. Things you will need to consider at week 33 of pregnancy are:
- Have foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (DHA), calcium, and iron. Studies suggest that diets with DHA promote early fetal development, prevent preterm labor, and protect against postpartum delivery.
- Milk is a must during pregnancy. Milk ensures the provision of calcium and vitamin D. However, you may have diarrhea, gas, bloating, and cramps if your body is unable to digest lactose. Switch to lactose-free products.
- Soak up good amounts of vitamin D from the natural manufacturers, the sun.
- Refrain from lifting heavy weights during pregnancy. Preferably light weights can help improve muscle tone and prevent bone loss.
- Sleep sideways for better sleep. Experts say sleeping on the left side is ideal for both the mother and the baby.
- Apply pregnancy-friendly creams and lotions, and moisturize the dry, itchy, sensitive skin.
Also read: https://pregajunction.com/blog/types-of-baby-delivery-during-pregnancy/
Conclusion
At week 33 of pregnancy, your body will require more calcium as the baby’s bones begin the hardening process, except for the skull bones. DHA, iron also is a must to prevent anemia. The amniotic cushioning effect lessens, thanks to the growing baby, the mother can feel stronger fetal movements. Connect with your doctor for any abnormalities or queries on pregnancy.
Reference
Overview| NHS
