32 Weeks Pregnant

What Happens During the Thirty Second Week of Pregnancy?

Since numerous changes continue to happen during pregnancy, it is beneficial to have an awareness of them. They range from hormonal changes to fluctuations in the fetal position. Here are some of the noticeable things happening during the 32nd week of pregnancy.

Hormonal Changes and Pregnancy Symptoms

Similar to the previous weeks, some of the pregnancy symptoms persist. One of them is leaking breasts, which is a common symptom during the 32nd week of pregnancy. It happens because of the increase in colostrum, which is a way of preparing you for breastfeeding. Hence, you have to remember that it is normal to have this concern. However, if you think you need medical attention, you can speak with your doctor to ensure your safety.

Another concern that can affect you during this time of pregnancy is heartburn. It is something that might be having an impact on you from the first trimester. During the 32nd week, it happens due to uterus expansion, leading to the pushing of the stomach. Because of this, the acidic elements present in your stomach will result in heartburn. Another issue is constipation, which is also taking place due to the increase in the size of the uterus. Here, it happens because of the restrictions imposed upon the rectum and colon by the uterus.

However, you can reduce the impact of this issue by maintaining a fiber-rich diet and drinking plenty of fluids. Apart from these issues, you might be feeling tired, which occurs due to an increase in your baby's weight. It will be affecting you in finding a comfortable position to sit or sleep. Other than that, it will have an impact on your legs and back muscles. Another common pregnancy symptom that can affect you during this time is Braxton Hicks Contractions. These are light contractions that can extend for less than a minute. However, if you find its impact is way higher than you have experienced before, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor. These are some of the main concerns associated with pregnancy symptoms and due to hormonal changes.

Bodily Changes

Your body will be preparing itself for the delivery, which results in numerous changes in your body. One of the noticeable changes is the expansion of your belly, which will be more than what you had in the last months. During this time, your uterus will be around five inches long from your belly button. However, the size will vary depending upon the number of children you are carrying.

Other than this, another concern that you can have will be skin irritation. It occurs due to the expansion of your skin, which also results in the development of stretch marks. Your chances of having stretch marks will increase if your mother had them during their pregnancy.

During this time, changes are happening to your vaginal discharge as well. Here, you can notice an increase in the egg white, but it can vary from one person to another. For some of you, there won't be any concerns associated with vaginal discharge. Whereas on the other hand, for some of you, it can be watery. Even though it is normal, you have to seek medical advice if you think there is a change in your discharge's smell. These are the main changes happening to your body while you are thirty-two weeks pregnant.

Fetal Development

Your little one has completed its development by this time of pregnancy. Here, your baby will weigh around four pounds, but it can vary as well. When it comes to your little one's length, it will be 16 to 19 inches long. During this time, your baby will be in a fetal position that will be most suitable during delivery. Here, your baby's head will be facing downwards, which is the correct position during birth. The reason for this is that only two more months are remaining for you to meet your little one.

As your baby enters the 32nd week, the breathing pattern will become normal and will have acquired its rhythmic pattern. Other than that, your little one's adrenal glands will be working and focusing on the production of cortisol. Besides, there will be a tremendous increase in the cortisol level as well during this time. Another noticeable change happening to your baby will be the removal of the lanugo. Your baby will be developing fingernails, which will be soft, but they will be continuing to grow.

When it comes to your little one's sleep cycle, your baby will have regular sleeping routines. It will be something your little one will continue after birth as well. Other than that, there aren't any major changes happening to your baby during the thirty-second week of pregnancy. If you decide to have an ultrasound scan this week, you can notice the slow movements made by your precious little one in your belly.

Things to Take Care During Week 32 of Pregnancy

While you are 32 weeks pregnant, you have to take good care of yourself. Here, we will look into some ways through which you can ensure your safety and health during this stage of pregnancy.

Ensure that You Have a Healthy Diet

Similar to the previous weeks of pregnancy, continue to maintain a healthy dietary habit. It is a factor that plays a crucial role in improving your little one's well-being and yours. Here, you have to focus on having smaller meals at regular time intervals. During the 32nd week of pregnancy, there is a high chance that your appetite might be decreasing. Due to this, try to incorporate small snacks into your routine.

Through this, you can ensure that you and your baby are receiving the required nutrients. Here, you can consider having bananas, apples, and other fruits. Other than that, try to have hummus or almond butter, or nuts as snacks. When it comes to staying hydrated, water is the first source that you have to include. Here, try to drink at least eight-ounce glasses of water per day. Apart from that, you can have fruit juices, smoothies, soups, etc. Here, you have to ensure that you don't have items that contain artificial additives and preservatives.

Take Care of Your Physical Health

During this time of pregnancy, it is best to avoid moderate to high-intensity workouts. Instead, try to focus on light exercises that can make you feel better. It is beneficial to maintain a workout routine while pregnant. But, some days, you might not be in a position to exercise. Under such circumstances, there is nothing wrong with skipping your workout for the day and focusing on doing something else. Here, you can try walking, pregnancy-friendly pilates, and yoga. Breathing exercises and meditation can also be beneficial for you during this time. Massages and therapies are also helpful while you are pregnant. However, ensure that you are taking things slow and not stressing yourself out.

Focus on Your Mental Health

Since a lot of changes are happening, it can be stressful for you. Besides, it can pave the way for anxiety and even result in depression while you are pregnant. The number of people slipping into maternal anxiety and depression is also high. Hence, you have to take the necessary precautions and preventive measures to enhance your well-being. It is because it can have an impact on your little one's responsiveness. Thus, there is nothing wrong with seeking professional help if you think it's necessary. If you had mental health issues beforehand, don't discontinue your treatment while pregnant.

Speak with Your Doctor

As your dates are approaching, you have to remain in contact with your doctor. Here, you have to keep your medical professional posted about any updates or discomforts you may have. Some concerns to bring to your doctor's attention include headache, blurred vision, vaginal bleeding, etc.

Other Tips

Here are a few other tips to help you during the thirty-second week of pregnancy.