Third trimester · 31 weeks pregnant
Week 31: all five senses
The brain processes information and tracks light.
All five senses work now. Your baby tracks light, processes sounds and signals from touch, and spends long stretches in REM sleep. There is less room, so big rolls give way to jabs and stretches, but movements should not become less frequent.
Size and weight
About the size of
a coconut
Length
41.1 cm
Weight
1.5 kg
Averages from standard growth charts. Measured crown to rump until week 20 and head to heel afterwards.
How your baby is developing
- All five senses function; the baby turns towards light.
- The brain matures quickly and processes information.
- The lungs are not fully mature yet but are getting closer every week.
- Fat continues to build; the baby gains around 200 g a week.
How you may feel
- More frequent Braxton Hicks
- Breathlessness
- Leaking colostrum
- Backache
- Frequent urination
- Numb or tingling hands
- Forgetfulness
Movements change character as space runs out, but a healthy baby does not move less. Any reduction in your baby's usual pattern needs a same-day call.
What's next
Tests and appointments
No routine tests this week. Keep taking your vitamins and contact your polyclinic with any concerns.
What to do this week
- Eat small, frequent meals; your stomach has little room.
- Put your feet up at least once a day and avoid standing for long stretches.
- Finalise your birth preferences and discuss them with your birth partner.
Call your doctor or maternity hospital if
- Your baby is moving less than usual, or the pattern has changed
- Vaginal bleeding, or your waters break, especially if the fluid is green or brown
- A severe headache, vision changes, pain under the right ribs, or sudden swelling of your face and hands
- Regular painful tightenings before 37 weeks, or severe itching of your palms and soles
If something feels wrong, trust yourself and call 103 or your maternity hospital. You will never be wasting anyone's time.
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