Third Trimester • Weeks 32-35
Month 8: Getting Ready
👶 Baby's Development
Your baby is gaining about half a pound per week! Most babies settle into a head-down position by now.
Size: Pineapple to honeydew
Weight: About 1.8-2.5 kg
Key Milestones:
- • Lungs nearly mature
- • Head-down position (usually)
- • Nails reach fingertips
- • Immune system developing
- • Less room to move
🤰 Your Body Changes
Your body is preparing for birth. Braxton Hicks may intensify and you might feel more tired.
Common Symptoms:
- • Stronger Braxton Hicks
- • Pelvic pressure
- • Difficulty breathing
- • Trouble finding comfortable position
- • Nesting instinct kicks in
- • Swollen feet and ankles
💚 Care & Wellness Tips
Finish hospital bag
Install car seat
Finalize birth plan
Stock up on postpartum supplies
Prepare freezer meals
Rest and conserve energy
🏥 Medical Checkups
You'll see your provider weekly or bi-weekly now.
- • Group B strep test (35-37 weeks)
- • Check cervix for dilation
- • Confirm baby's position
- • Discuss labor signs
- • Review birth preferences
⚠️ Things to Avoid
- • Traveling far from hospital
- • Heavy lifting
- • Ignoring labor signs
- • Skipping appointments
- • Stress and anxiety
💑 How Partners Can Help
Final preparations are underway. Help tackle the to-do list and keep stress levels low.
- • Install the car seat (get it inspected if needed)
- • Help prepare freezer meals for after baby arrives
- • Finish any remaining nursery setup
- • Review the birth plan together
- • Know the signs of labor
- • Keep the car fueled and ready to go
Your pregnancy journey