32 Weeks Pregnant: Signs, Tips, Symptoms & Baby’s Development

Published on April 12, 2022 – Last Updated on October 23, 2022

At 32 weeks pregnant, you are in the home stretch of your pregnancy! Many moms-to-be are eager to meet their little one, while others are still trying to enjoy the last few weeks of peace and quiet. Regardless of where you stand on the spectrum, you should know a few things about being 32 weeks pregnant. This week is all about preparing for labor and delivery and getting your home ready for your new arrival.

This blog post can discuss everything related to the 32nd week of your pregnancy. What to expect, symptoms you may experience, how your baby develops, and tips for a healthy pregnancy. Let’s dive in!

What to expect during the 32nd week of your pregnancy

You are now in the eighth month of your pregnancy. The baby is growing bigger and stronger every day. You can expect to feel the baby move around a lot. In addition, the baby is growing bigger and stronger; you may notice an increase in the size of the uterus and gain weight in that time.

Make sure to check out our blogposts about: when is my due date and pregnancy stages weeks.

Third-trimester:

During this third trimester, you may also experience Braxton Hicks contractions which are practicing contractions that your body undergoes to help prepare for labor. You will also want to continue to monitor your blood pressure and glucose levels and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns. Read more about contractions: contraction timer, pregnancy contractions timer & how to time contractions.

How your baby is developing: Baby’s development at 32 weeks pregnant

This week, your growing baby is getting ready to be born! Baby is now in the head-down position, They are practicing breathing and sucking, and their brain is growing more and more.

Baby’s Size:

Your baby is about the size of about a papaya or a honeydew melon or squash. The body is still working for the baby’s growth and becomes heavier every day, and their skin is becoming more transparent.

Baby’s Length:

Your baby is about 18-19 inches long from head to toe.

Baby’s Weight:

The baby weighs now about 5-6 pounds.

Overall Development:

The overall development of a fetus at 32 weeks pregnant is that the baby is now about the size of a squash. The baby’s skin is thin and translucent, and the veins are visible through the skin. The baby’s eyes have formed and can distinguish light from dark. Most babies this age can hear sounds, including Mom’s voice. The baby’s lungs are maturing, and the digestive system continues to develop.

Pregnancy Symptoms at 32 weeks pregnant

The most common symptoms of pregnancy are nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. These symptoms can be caused by the increase in pregnancy hormones that occur during pregnancy. Other symptoms include:

Heartburn
Swelling of the feet and ankles
Breast tenderness
Headaches
Urinary frequency
Constipation.
Leg cramps.
Faintness or dizziness.
Hemorrhoids.
Colostrum (leaky breasts)
Itchy tummy and skin.

Heartburn:

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused by the baby’s head pressing on the stomach. This can be relieved by sitting straight and avoiding spicy and fatty foods.

Swelling:

Swelling of the feet and ankles is joint in pregnancy. The extra fluid causes this in the body and the pressure of the baby on the veins.

Breast Tenderness:

Breast tenderness is caused by the increase in hormones during pregnancy. This can be alleviated by wearing a supportive bra and avoiding caffeine.

Headaches:

Headaches are common in pregnancy and can be caused by an increase in hormones, stress, or lack of sleep. Try resting in a dark room, massaging your temples, or taking a warm bath to relieve headaches.

Urinary Frequency:

Urinary frequency is caused by the pressure of the baby on the bladder. This can be alleviated by urinating frequently and avoiding caffeine.

Constipation:

Constipation is common in pregnancy and can be caused by the pressure of the baby on the intestines. This can be alleviated by drinking plenty of fluids, eating high-fiber foods, and exercising.

Leg Cramps:

Leg cramps are caused by the extra weight of the baby on the legs. They can be relieved by stretching or massaging the affected area.

Faintness or Dizziness:

Faintness or dizziness is caused by low blood sugar or increased hormones. This can be alleviated by eating small meals often and drinking plenty of fluids.

Hemorrhoids:

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the anus and rectum. They can be caused by constipation or the pressure of the baby on the veins. They can be alleviated by drinking plenty of fluids, eating high-fiber foods, and exercising.

Colostrum:

Colostrum is a yellowish fluid that leaks from the breasts during pregnancy. It is rich in nutrients and antibodies, which help protect the baby from infection.

Itchy Tummy and Skin:

The stretching of the skin causes an itchy tummy and skin. This can be alleviated by using lotion or cream on the affected area.

As your pregnancy comes to an end, you may experience some Braxton Hicks contractions. These are harmless uterus contractions caused by dehydration, fatigue, or stress. They are not a sign of labor and do not require medical attention. Instead, try drinking plenty of fluids, resting, or taking a warm bath to relieve them. If You have any concerns, then contact the healthcare provider immediately.

Changes in your body

As you near the end of your pregnancy, you may notice some changes in your body. For example, your baby is growing larger and putting more pressure on your bladder and pelvic region. This can cause you to feel the need to urinate more frequently. You may also experience contractions, which are your body’s way of preparing for labor.

How you’re feeling

At 32 weeks pregnant, you may be feeling a bit uncomfortable. Your belly is getting bigger by the day, and it may be challenging to get around. You may also feel Braxton Hicks’s contractions and false labor pains. However, these contractions are regular and nothing to worry about.

32 Weeks Fetus

A 32-week fetus is a big baby. The baby is about 16 to 17 inches long from head to toe and weighs about 4 to 5 pounds.

About 32 percent of the fetal weight is fat. The fetus can suck its thumb and has regular sleep patterns and awake periods.

The 32-week fetus is growing rapidly and preparing for life outside the womb. The lungs are continuing to mature, and the bones are getting stronger. The baby is also growing more hair, and the skin is getting thicker.

If you are 32 weeks pregnant, you may be noticing some Braxton Hicks contractions. These are not true labor contractions, but they can be uncomfortable. You may also be feeling more tired as your body adjusts to the extra weight.

Overall, a 32-week fetus is a healthy baby with a good chance of survival if born prematurely. If you are 32 weeks pregnant, continue to take good care of yourself and your baby. Eat healthy foods, get plenty of rest, and stay hydrated. If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor or midwife immediately.

32 Weeks Belly

32 Weeks Belly is a great way to help improve your health and wellbeing. It is an effective way to tone your stomach muscles, improve your posture and support your back. It can also help to improve your circulation and increase your flexibility. 32 Weeks Belly is a great way to help you stay fit and healthy during pregnancy. It is also an excellent way to prepare your body for childbirth. 32 Weeks Belly is an excellent investment for your health and wellbeing.

Tips for Healthy Pregnancy at 32 Weeks

Eating healthy and staying active is essential for any pregnant woman, especially at 32 weeks. This is when your baby is really starting to grow and develop, so you want to make sure you’re doing everything you can to support a healthy pregnancy. Here are a few tips:

Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Stay active.
Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks.
Get plenty of rest.
Use our free printable positive pregnancy affirmations, birth affirmations, or hypnobirthing affirmations.

Eat Plenty of Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains:

Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are packed with essential nutrients for a healthy pregnancy. They are also low in calories and fat, which can help you manage your weight gain.

Stay Active:

Staying active is essential for a healthy pregnancy. It can help reduce your risk of developing gestational diabetes and hypertension and can also help improve your mood and energy levels.

Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks:

Processed foods and sugary drinks are high in calories and low in nutrients. They can also contribute to weight gain, which is dangerous for pregnant women.

Get Plenty of Rest:

Pregnancy is a time when your body needs plenty of rest. Getting enough sleep can help improve your mood and energy levels and reduce your risk of developing pregnancy complications.

If you’re having trouble sleeping, try to establish a bedtime routine. For example, consider going to bed and waking up simultaneously each day, and avoid caffeine and alcohol in the evening. Creating a calm and relaxing environment in your bedroom can also help you fall asleep more easily.

Tips For Partners:

This is the home stretch, and your partner is probably feeling a bit anxious about labor and delivery. Here are a few things you can do to help them feel prepared and supported in week 32:

Reassure them that they are doing a fantastic job and that you are there for them no matter what happens.
Attend prenatal classes together

You can help ensure a healthy pregnancy at 32 weeks by following these tips.

Doctor’s Office Visit

During your 32nd week of pregnancy, you will most likely have a routine checkup with your doctor. This is a necessary appointment as it will give your healthcare provider a chance to check on the progress of your pregnancy and make sure that both you and your baby are healthy. Your doctor may also discuss your birth plan with you at this appointment and answer any questions you may have about labor and delivery.

Preterm labor

As you enter the final weeks of pregnancy, it is essential to start thinking about labor and delivery at a hospital or birthing center. This can be a daunting task, but there are a few things you can do to help prepare yourself. First, list any questions you want to ask your doctor at your next appointment before the baby’s arrival.

Go on a tour of the hospital’s labor and delivery ward to see what to expect. Then, enjoy your baby shower if you have one! You can also start reading up on work and delivery to know what to expect. Finally, start thinking about who you want to have in the delivery room with you, as this can help make the experience more comfortable for you.

FAQs

What should you not do at pregnancy week 32?

There are a few things to avoid during pregnancy, especially in the 32nd week. These include:

Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks.
Avoid caffeine.
Get plenty of rest.
Drink plenty of water.
Don’t smoke.
Avoid alcohol.

These unhealthy habits can put you and your baby at risk for complications during pregnancy and labor. So it is best to avoid them altogether.

Is it normal to have Braxton hicks at 32 weeks?

Yes, it is normal to have Braxton hicks contractions at 32 weeks pregnant. These contractions are often harmless and do not indicate that labor is starting. However, if you experience any pain or bleeding, you should contact your doctor immediately.

How many months are 32 weeks pregnant?

32 weeks pregnant is 8 months pregnant. This is the home stretch of pregnancy, and you may be feeling eager to meet your little one. Remember to take care of yourself and get plenty of rest during these final weeks.