Week 33
(counting
from first day of last menstrual period)
Around 31
Weeks After Conception
 Fetal
Development:
At this point, the amniotic
fluid is at the highest level in the pregnancy. The
amount will remain constant until delivery. Rapid brain
growth has increased the baby's head size approximately
3/8 of an inch this week. Fat continues to accumulate
which turns the baby's skin color from red to pink.
Multiples: The confined space
restricts the babies' movements somewhat so movement may
not feel as intense but should be as frequent.
Maternal Changes:
You'll be gaining
about a pound a week. Mild edema is normal but if you
experience severe headache; seeing "spots" or "flashing
lights" while at rest; sudden increase in swelling, such
as over 2-3 days, especially of the face; abdominal
pain; and nausea, vomiting, and feeling sick, contact
your caregiver immediately. You could be developing pre-eclampsia
which is characterized by swelling, high blood pressure
and protein in the urine. It is a very serious
complication of pregnancy.
Multiples: Your
appetite may be decreasing as your stomach is cramped
for space.
Circumcision:
If
you're having a son, you will be confronted with the
decision regarding circumcision after birth. This has
become a HOT topic in recent years, and it isn't the
purpose of this guide to debate the issues. Finding good
unbiased information is almost impossible, however, on
the internet. Circumcision is a personal decision that
parents need to make based on their own
preferences/beliefs.
Start thinking about your
feelings now and educating yourself on the facts. You'll
be asked to sign a consent form either when you register
at the hospital or when you are admitted in labor.
Knowing your desires beforehand will save you from
making a hasty uninformed decision at the last minute.
Ideas for Dad:
Mom has probably
been working on a birth announcement list. If you
haven't helped out and given her a list of those you
want to receive an announcement such as relatives,
friends and co-workers, now is a good time to get
started.
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