32 Weeks Pregnant
How is Your Baby Growing at 32 Weeks?
Week 32 marks the start of rapid growth for your baby. From now until birth, your baby will gain a third to a half of their current weight as they lay down more fat cells.
Your baby should still be following a regular movement pattern. However, the movements might feel a little different as the space in your uterus becomes more crowded due to your growing baby and the increasing amount of amniotic fluid.
Your baby is still taking in amniotic fluid and passing it out as urine. Their digestive system is now fully functional and their hair, fingernails, and toenails are formed.
How Big is Your Baby at 32 Weeks?
At week 32, your baby is 42.4 cm (about the size of a kale leaf) and weighs 1.7 kg.
What Happens at 32 Weeks?
By now, your baby is usually lying with their head pointing downwards (known as the cephalic position). This is the ideal position for birth. If they aren’t yet pointing downwards, don’t worry! There is still time for them to turn.
At this stage in your pregnancy, you will be gaining around a pound per week. Make sure that you are still lightly exercising daily to improve blood flow and maintain good health throughout your pregnancy.
What Symptoms Will You Have at 32 Weeks?
If you haven’t yet noticed they, you will definitely notice some Braxton Hicks contractions by week 32. They are usually painless but potentially uncomfortable, and they will like a tightening sensation around your uterus.
Common symptoms at week 32 are:
- Backache
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Piles
- Stretch marks
- Swollen and bleeding gums
- Tiredness
