32 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Belly Size & Ultrasound

32 weeks pregnant is a milestone to celebrate and savor. Find out what to expect when you’re 32 weeks pregnant, find out whether you can feel baby yet and what your uterus looks like. What size is a 12-week-pregnant uterus? What are the 8th week symptoms? When does baby start to move?

Your baby at week 32 of pregnancy

In the same way as you, your unborn baby will establish a routine every day. There will be times when your baby is active and wiggly, and other times when you aren’t able to feel her movements. After your baby is born, she’ll probably continue the pattern she developed in utero. Your baby also has favorite positions along with a routine. The perfect position for labor is for unborn babies to have their heads down, rumps up toward the ribs.

32 weeks pregnant is how many months?

When you are 32 weeks pregnant, you are officially in 8 months of your pregnancy, only 1 months to go! Congratulations, your almost there momma!

How big is your baby at 32 weeks pregnant?

At 32 weeks, the average fetus weighs around 3 t0 4 pounds and measures about 15 to 17 inches from crown to rump, making it about the size of a of pineapple or a cabbage or head of a zucchini

32 weeks pregnant baby position

By 32 weeks of pregnancy, the baby is often lying with their head pointing downward, indicating that they are close to being ready for birth. The medical term for this is “cephalic presentation.” If your baby isn’t lying with their head down yet, don’t worry; they can still turn.

32 weeks pregnant: baby’s development

30-33 weeks baby developments

At 32 weeks after conception, the fetus practices breathing almost 40 percent of the time. About 990 gallons of blood are pumped daily by the fetal heart at 32 weeks postconception. At about 32 weeks postconception, the lungs begin to develop genuine alveoli. In humans, genuine alveoli account for over 95% of lung tissue that matures later in life. Children keep growing genuine alveoli until age 8.

The testicles of unborn baby boys begin to form around week 12, but they won’t emerge from the abdomen until around week 33. And then they go down into the scrotum.

Brain develops many bumps and grooves

It is during this month when the brain’s ridges and valleys (gyri and sulci) begin to take shape. These ridges and valleys increase the brain’s surface area, which is crucial given that the cortex is located exclusively there. As a result of the widespread presence of gyri and sulci, the cerebral cortex is able to accommodate a greater number of neurons. This rapid development of the brain coincides with a similarly rapid expansion of the fetus’s capacity for learning.

Fetus see and respond to visual information

It was discovered that fetuses, as early as 32 weeks after conception, moved their heads toward the face-like lights projected through the uterine wall. 13 This demonstrates that the fetus can perceive and process visual information from the outside world, and that it has a particular preference for looking at stimuli that resemble human faces.

Fetus grasps objects

By this point, the fetus also grasps objects that come near her hands. In fact, as early as 25 weeks after conception, the fetus can hold her own body weight momentarily by grasping.

Your body at 32 weeks pregnant

You may already be counting down the days because there are only a few weeks left. With all the suffering you’re experiencing, it’s understandable. However, there are other, less unpleasant, indicators that the time of birth is drawing near, such as a sore back and swollen ankles. Your breasts may leak a clear or slightly yellow fluid. If you decide to breastfeed your kid, the first few days of his existence will be sustained by this foremilk called colostrum. White vaginal bleeding, known as leukorrhea, is also possible. As you get closer to giving birth, this is to be expected and is actually quite common.

Alternatives to Medication

You have a lot of choices when it comes to pain management during childbirth. What kind of strategy you go with is an extremely personal decision. You should consider several methods and even combinations and backup plans as you think about delivery day.

Here are a few popular methods pregnant women use to go through labor medication-free.

Lamaze

You’ve probably heard of Lamaze, an approach to childbirth that encourages women to be active during labor by moving around and using breathing strategies versus medication to cope with pain. Your partner is a key part of making this method a success. This practice has been around since the 1960s and remains popular today. To fully understand Lamaze, locate an instructor in your area by going to Lamaze.org.

The Bradley Method

Similar to the Lamaze approach, the Bradley Method encourages women to take an active role in their own labor. With the help of Bradley Method workshops, expectant parents can learn how to use deep breathing techniques to ease the discomfort of childbirth. Your partner should encourage you to concentrate on these breathing techniques and other coping methods while you are in labor. You may learn more about Bradley birth at Bradleybirth.com.

You may still try an alternative method of pain management, even if you haven’t taken Lamaze or Bradley Method training. A doula or trained nurse midwife can help you through labor by providing support and advice.

Water therapy

Water and heat can help you relax during labor, which may make giving birth easier. The benefits of water treatment can be enjoyed in the shower even if you are not yet prepared to give birth in a tub. “Women don’t know how relaxing water can be until they’re in the water,” says Dr. Joanne Motino Bailey, PhD, a licensed nurse midwife. Dr. Bailey claims that water therapy is “underutilized” as a means of pain management during birth.

Movement and body positions

During labor, you can try out some of the positions you learned about in childbirth class or from your certified nurse midwife. You could, for instance, benefit from the reassuring rocking action. If you’re in labor, Dr. Bailey recommends that you “Try to stay upright and start walking” to help you focus and progress.

Of course, these options for non-pharmaceutical pain relief after labor are by no means exhaustive. There are many additional techniques available, too, such as acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and others.

Do your homework on any coping methods you want to use and talk to your doctor about your options before the big day. Not all medical facilities will allow you to give birth in the bathtub or while under hypnosis, and some doctors may not be willing to perform the delivery if you request it.

Your period may become more often and bloody, a condition known as leukorrhea, starting about this time. Due to the increased pressure from your growing uterus on your diaphragm, you may be experiencing increased difficulty breathing. Once the baby “drops,” things will improve (usually about two to three weeks before delivery). In order to reduce any pain you may be experiencing, try sleeping with a pillow or cushion under your head when you’re lying down.

This week, it’s also important to keep an eye out for signs of swelling getting worse. In late pregnancy, it’s usual to feel some swelling in the feet, but if you also develop swelling in the face, severe headaches, abdominal pain, or nausea, you should see a doctor right once. Preeclampsia is a possible condition you’re experiencing.

32 weeks pregnant tips and advice

Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is important. Your body uses more water during your pregnancy to fuel your increased blood supply (necessary to get your baby-to-be plenty of nutrients) and other body functions. Taken to extremes, dehydration can lead to preterm labor pains. So bring a water bottle to work with you—and drink it.

Use the bathroom—often

Drinking more water means more trips to the bathroom. Add to that, your kidneys are working overtime to filter impurities from your increased blood supply. To avoid stares from coworkers, plan discrete potty breaks. Go when you first get to the office and take a break on the way from meetings or other times when you’re already up so your trips will be less noticeable. Putting off a trip to the bathroom is a bad idea—it makes you uncomfortable and puts stress on your bladder, which can lead to bladder infections.

Bring light snacks

Food may not be appealing, especially if you’re experiencing nausea. Skip a full-blown lunch and opt for lighter fare throughout the day. Keep in mind that some pregnancy comfort foods are dead giveaways, such as crackers. If you’re trying to keep your pregnancy a secret, try less notorious foods that still comfort nausea but that don’t shout, “I’m pregnant!” Opt for foods high in protein, such as string cheese, almonds, or milk.

Wear comfortable clothes

You’ve probably packed away your tight-fitting pants already. If you haven’t, now’s probably the time to say goodbye to your hip-hugging ensembles until after your baby’s arrival. Avoiding tight clothes isn’t just about hiding your baby bump. Your body may be retaining water to fuel your increased blood supply, and constricting clothes are not only tight on your skin, but the blood that’s trying to flow underneath.

Watch your posture

Take time to get off your feet and walk around. Staying in the same position for too long allows the blood to pool in the lower part of your body, potentially making you light-headed. Put your feet up whenever possible to keep your blood flowing properly.

Having Trouble Sleeping at 32 weeks Pregnant

Having difficulties sleeping is a common pregnant symptom, and it’s especially common in the second and third trimesters, when other pregnancy symptoms peak and a growing belly makes it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.

When you’re 32 weeks pregnant, it could hurt to sleep on your stomach, but studies indicates that lying on your back puts more strain on the vena cava, the main blood vessel that returns blood to the heart.

Your blood circulation will increase if you sleep on your left side, which will also be good for your uterus, kidneys, and fetus. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try placing a pillow between your knees and another under your stomach. If the problem persists, consult your doctor.

32 weeks Pregnant: Wellness and Nutrition

What should you avoid during pregnancy? Doctors agree that you should avoid the following:

Activities that may cause you to fall, or that place pressure or force on your belly
Intense, overly vigorous exercise – if you’re too out of breath to talk, you’re probably exercising too hard.
Drinking alcohol, smoking, and caffeine (ask your doctor how much caffeine you should consume each day)
Sweeteners such as saccharine and herbal sweeteners (ask your doctor if artificial sweeteners are appropriate)
Prescription and over-the-counter medications (check with your doctor about what’s safe during pregnancy)

Paint, cleaning products, and solvents can expose you to chemicals and fumes. Acrylic and latex paints are generally considered safe. However, you should consult your doctor before helping around the house or in the nursery.
Saunas and hot tubs
Chemical treatments for your hair, such as dye and perms

32 weeks pregnancy symptoms

Your body undergoes many changes to give your baby-to-be enough room to grow. Some of these changes are comforting—your rounded belly and your full breasts, for example—while other signs can be troubling. Keep in mind that many of these physical changes will last only until your baby arrives.

Upper abdominal pain

The uterus is growing rapidly, putting pressure on organs like the bladder, intestines, and stomach. This can cause mild pain in the upper abdomen that may extend to the lower abdomen or sides of your stomach. The pressure on your abdomen can also cause pain when you cough or sneeze.

Lower abdominal pain

The uterus is growing rapidly and putting pressure on your bladder, intestines, and stomach. This can cause lower abdominal pain that may feel like mild cramping or a dull ache in the pelvic region. Back pain. The growing weight of your uterus on your spine can cause back pain that typically becomes worse as pregnancy progresses.

Leg cramps

The weight of your uterus can put pressure on your veins and cause leg cramps or swelling. You may also experience varicose veins in your legs due to increased blood flow. Neck pain. As the baby grows, it puts more pressure on the spinal cord, which runs down through your neck and back. This can cause mild pain in the neck area that may extend into your shoulders and arms.

Back pain

Your growing uterus can put pressure on your spine and cause back pain. The weight of the baby can also cause sciatica, which is when pain shoots down the back of one leg due to compression in the spinal cord. Backache. Your growing uterus may cause you to experience mild to moderate lower back pain or stiffness in your lower abdomen around this time.

Leaky breasts

It can be alarming, especially if you aren’t expecting it! But rest assured, this is not usually a cause for concern. Breast milk production begins when the hormone prolactin rises in response to pregnancy. Prolactin stimulates the cells of the mammary glands that produce milk and causes them to grow and multiply.

Sleeping difficulties

You may find it harder to get comfortable when you’re pregnant. Your growing abdomen can make it more difficult for you to find a position that feels good, and your joints may be sore from carrying extra weight. You might also experience restless leg syndrome, which is when you feel like your legs are moving even though they aren’t. This happens because the joints in the body release chemicals that cause itching or tingling sensations when they are irritated by things like pregnancy hormones.

Swollen Ankels

You may be experiencing swollen ankles, which is common during pregnancy. This happens because the increased levels of hormones in your body cause fluid to accumulate in your tissues, including those that line the walls of your veins and arteries. It’s usually not a cause for concern unless you have swelling in both legs or it lasts longer than two weeks.

Fatigue (constant tiredness or weakness)

One of the most typical symptoms of early pregnancy is fatigue, which frequently starts at this point. Although there are many causes of exhaustion during pregnancy (including changes in hormone levels), some research indicates that inadequate sleep brought on by nighttime awakenings from unpleasant sleeping positions may also be a role.

Heartburn or gas

There may be a rise in heartburn and flatulence during the 32nd week of pregnancy. This is because progesterone produces a decrease in the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle, which typically prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus. This can cause heartburn and discomfort by allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. Try spreading your meals out more, staying away from items that are known to cause heartburn (such spicy foods), and drinking lots of water.

Mood swings and crying spells

The 32nd week of pregnancy is a vulnerable time for women, when they are more likely to experience mood swings and crying spells. Until your hormone levels settle, this will have an impact on your mental and emotional well-being. This is a common occurrence for pregnant women; one study indicated that 75% of women felt emotional shifts like irritability or depression in the first trimester.

Indigestion, or constipation

During the 32nd week of pregnancy, you may suffer gastrointestinal issues like indigestion or constipation. Pregnancy hormones like progesterone and estrogen might increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues including indigestion. These hormones slow down digestion by relaxing the digestive tract, preventing food from being swallowed whole. You can reduce the frequency and severity of indigestion during pregnancy by cutting out on high-fat and sugary foods and eating more often, smaller meals (like sweets or fried foods).

Swelling (edema)

Your body retains water to provide the necessary fluids for your growing baby-to-be. You can prevent much of this swelling from drinking plenty of fluids and keeping your legs up. You may also want to purchase socks designed to improve the circulation in your feet.

Skin spots

The skin’s pigmentation may deepen around certain parts of your body during pregnancy, such as your nipples and freckles. You may also notice spots of color on your face, called the mask of pregnancy or chloasma. These pigmentation changes will fade after your baby’s born.

Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is a very common and often overlooked symptom of pregnancy. It happens when there isn’t enough oxygen in your body or when your blood flow is constricted. This can make it difficult to do even the smallest things like walk across the room or climb stairs.

You may feel like you need to take deeper breaths than usual or that it takes longer than normal for your breathing rate to return to normal after an activity such as climbing stairs.

Symptoms to be aware of

Please share any concerns you may have with your doctor or midwife. Don’t worry about whether or not you’re repeating yourself or wasting anyone’s time by bringing up an old topic. This pregnancy is yours, so listen to your body if you suspect something is wrong.

Signs of premature labour

If you have any of the following symptoms, call the hospital or midwife straight away, because you could be in premature labour:

regular contractions or tightenings
period-type pains or pressure in your vaginal area
a “show” – which is when the plug of mucus that has sealed the cervix during pregnancy comes away and out of the vagina
a gush or trickle of fluid from your vagina – this could be your waters breaking

backache that’s unusual for you.

32 weeks pregnant belly

Your baby will occupy a larger area of your uterus at this point. To provide more room for your developing baby, your uterus will grow underneath your rib cage. You might start to feel more clumsy. The center of gravity somewhat shifts as your tummy expands. You can get a sense of unsteadiness.

32 weeks pregnant belly size

By week 32, your belly will have expanded and protruded considerably. You might have trouble seeing where you’re walking. There is a 26-35 cm range for fundal height (10.2-13.8 in). Around 9 cm (3.5 inches) above your belly button is where you’ll notice a significant increase in amniotic fluid.

Some women may measure smaller and some larger than this, but this is a good general guide for how big your belly will be at this point in pregnancy. Of course, being 32 weeks pregnant with twins makes you feel heavier than other pregnant women your age.

Measuring pregnant belly at 32 weeks

If you’re measuring your belly at home, use a tape measure and measure around the widest part of your abdomen. Measurement is usually taken above the navel or below it, depending on what’s more comfortable for you. Be sure to stand up straight and relax as much as possible while taking your measurement—it should be taken at the same time every day so that you can monitor how quickly or slowly your belly is growing.

If you are measuring your belly at the top of your pubic bone, expect to see an increase of about two inches per month. If you’re measuring this lower, around your navel and below, it can be as much as three inches per month. The average weight gain during pregnancy is between 25 and 35 pounds and usually occurs in the last trimester (after week 28).

how-to-measure-fundal-height - 1

Braxton Hicks at 32 weeks Pregnant

At 32 weeks pregnant, you may find that your Braxton Hicks contractions are becoming more frequent and intense. You may feel them in your back or lower abdomen, and they may last anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes. If you’re having regular contractions, it’s important to talk with your doctor about any pain or discomfort you experience during them.

Braxton Hicks are common during the third trimester. You may not even notice them because they feel like mild discomfort or a dull ache in your lower abdomen. They’re also called practice contractions because they prepare your body for real labor by getting it ready to push out a baby when the time comes.

32 weeks pregnant ultrasound

An ultrasound of your baby at 32 weeks shows a head that is relatively large; a human baby’s brain weighs 12 percent of his body weight at birth. It’s likely that your baby already has 100 billion or so brain cells at birth.

The importance of prenatal vitamins during pregnancy

During pregnancy, you need a greater amount of folic acid and iron. Why? Here are some reasons:

Folic acid prevents neural tube defects

These defects affect the fetal brain and spinal cord in a significant way. Preferably, you should begin taking extra folic acid three months before you become pregnant.

The placenta and baby require iron to develop

The body uses iron to make blood to supply oxygen to the baby. Additionally, iron helps prevent anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cells

It’s important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out which are the best prenatal vitamins to take before pregnancy, and how to calculate your expected delivery date.