From Bump To Birth: Milestones At 32 Weeks Pregnant

Well done, mommy, you're 32 weeks pregnant. Are you counting down the weeks until your little bundle of joy enters this world? You’ve reached so far; it means you have been taking good care of yourself. Keep doing it! At this stage, your baby is growing stronger and more active every day. But what changes can you expect for yourself and your baby when you’re 32 weeks pregnant? Let's dive into the exciting developments and preparations you'll want to make before your baby's arrival.

Let’s know about them in detail.

Key Takeaways at 32 Weeks Pregnant

1. Your baby is about the size of a squash and weighs nearly 4 pounds. 
2. Your baby is developing muscles and storing body fat. So, it is possible that you may feel stronger kicks than usual. 
3. One important thing - lanugo (the hair that has protected your baby inside since you stepped in the second trimester) has started to fall off.  
4. If you’re lucky and keep a record of your baby’s movements, then you may also notice your belly moving (it’s actually your baby inside who is moving).
5. Make sure you ask your doctor if any vaccinations are required. 
6. Your gynaecologist may call you for frequent prenatal visits (may be every 2 weeks). They may check several things during these visits, which we will discuss in more detail in the blog. 
7. It’s an appropriate time to begin shopping, planning your hospital bag checklist, collecting post-partum essentials and also a birthing plan!

Baby At Week 32

How Big Is The Baby at 32 Weeks?

At 32 weeks pregnant, your baby is approximately 11.4 inches (29 cm) long from crown to rump and weighs around 3.5 to 4 pounds (1,700 grams). You may assume the size of a large squash or jicama. From now until delivery, your baby will gain about half a pound a week. This is truly a miracle– growing a human inside, keeping them alive and giving birth eventually. Do you feel the same?  

Are Babies Fully Developed At 32 Weeks?

Not quite. While your baby’s major organs—like the brain, lungs, and liver—are functioning, they’re still maturing. The lungs, in particular, continue to develop to ensure they can breathe properly outside the womb. If the fetus you’re nurturing inside is a baby boy, then his testicles are descending. 

Reaching 32 weeks of gestation is a significant milestone. If your baby is born at this stage, they have a strong chance of thriving, with a survival rate of around 95%. Moreover, the risk of complications or mortality in infancy and childhood is remarkably low. 

32 Weeks Pregnant Is Equal To How Many Months?

At 32 weeks, you're eight months pregnant. In other words, it’s 30 weeks after conception- whatever feels easy to understand. You’ve entered the final stretch of your pregnancy, and only about 8 weeks remain until your due date! Great going, mommy! 

32-Week Ultrasound

Around 32 weeks pregnant, you can expect a prenatal checkup with your doctor, typically every other week. Unless you have complications or specific concerns, a 32-week ultrasound is unlikely, but your doctor may monitor your progress and address any issues that may arise. 

Since it’s your third trimester, they may advise you to have a growth scan (typically performed around 32-24 weeks and beyond), depending on a woman's needs. If you’re going for an ultrasound, then you may expect the following things: 

• Evaluates the baby’s growth, development and weight gain.
• Measures amniotic fluid surrounding the baby inside, enabling proper fetal movements and acting as a shield. 
• Provides information about the baby’s position inside the womb. It also determines in which position the baby is currently, so that planning the birthing position becomes easy.
• Examines the blood flow in the umbilical cord. It forms the connection through which oxygen and various nutrients reach the baby from the mother.
• Assesses the location and condition of the placenta. Again, if there is any issue with its position, it may affect the delivery plan.
• Look out for the baby’s overall health and well-being, such as fetal heartbeat, movements and vitality.

Pregnancy Symptoms At Week 32

Each pregnancy is different, therefore, it’s not mandatory that one woman feels the other one feels too. However, there are some common symptoms that a 32-week pregnant mom-to-be may experience. Let’s go through them. 

1. Vaginal discharge is quite common during this time. If the discharge is thin, not smelly, clear and milky white in texture, then no need to worry! This will actually prevent you from infections. If you have a gushy/leaky kind of liquid, consult your doctor right away. It may be a sign of water leakage. 
2. Shortness of breath and heart palpitations are other symptoms of being 32 weeks pregnant. You are in your third trimester and very near to giving birth. The baby is almost fully grown, and thus pressurises the diaphragm. If you wish to rest, don’t think, just do it! 
3. As your body changes, your digestive system slows down, leading to indigestion, bloating, and constipation. The growing baby's pressure on your stomach can also cause acid reflux and heartburn. 
4. Moreover, your skin's rapid stretching can lead to stretch marks - those red, purple, or pink lines that are a common part of pregnancy. You're not alone in this, and while they might be uncomfortable, they're a normal sign of your body nurturing your growing baby. 

What To Expect At 32 Weeks Pregnant

Mommy, you’re in your eighth month (the final trimester of pregnancy), so many changes are happening in your body. Some are visible, like the baby movements, growing belly, and body physique, and certain changes are taking place internally. 

1. The top of your uterus measures about 5 inches above your belly button. 
2. Your blood volume has increased by 40-50%, so that it’s easy to adjust your baby inside. 
3. Your body is also preparing itself for delivery. Like we mentioned before, your doctor visits will increase in number. 
4. You may feel discomfort and difficulty sleeping because of the excess weight on your belly. 
5. If a woman delivers her baby now, it’s considered to be premature. So, be active and watch out for any signs of premature delivery, e.g. contractions, water leakage, bleeding, decrease in baby’s movements, and mucus discharge from the vagina.

How Can You Tell If A Baby Is Head Down At 32 Weeks?

Most babies settle into a head-down position around 32 weeks. You might feel more pressure in your pelvis and baby-kicks higher up in your belly. Your doctor or midwife can confirm the position by palpating your abdomen or during an ultrasound. 

Is 32 Weeks Safe To Deliver?

While 32 weeks is still considered preterm, many babies born at this stage do very well with medical care. Their survival rate is high, but they may need help with breathing and feeding. The goal is to keep the baby in the womb as long as safely possible. 

What Is The Expected Baby Position At 32 Weeks?

At this stage, the ideal position is head-down (cephalic). However, some babies may still be in a breech or transverse position. If your baby hasn’t turned yet, don’t worry—there’s still time. Your doctor might suggest exercises or techniques to encourage a head-down position by week 36. 

Tips For 32 Weeks Pregnant

For a healthy pregnancy, you can follow the below-mentioned tips-

1. First of all, we advise you to sleep on your left side. Research says that this position improves blood flow to the uterus and helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the baby inside. 
2. While we are already talking about sleep, one more thing to add. It is recommended to have a proper sleep. Prioritise rest because poor sleep is associated with many issues like preeclampsia and preterm birth. 
3. If you exercise regularly, then make sure you’re not doing too much. Avoid lifting heavy weights, take enough breaks in between and don’t overexert yourself. 
4. You can start with such exercises that help tone your pelvic muscles. Start with the gentle ones first and make sure if you’re trying something new, take help and guidance from a professional instructor. 
5. Stop smoking, alcohol consumption right away. Cut off on caffeine (tea and coffee both) and instead drink water for hydration. 
6. Focus on a healthy diet and nutritious foods. Therefore, include all kinds of pregnancy-safe foods like whole grains, fruits, veggies, nuts and dairy products. Don’t try anything new even if you have cravings. 
7. Along with these tips, take care of your mental and emotional well-being. Find ways to keep yourself happy. 

The Final Takeaway

As you navigate the final stretch of your second trimester at 32 weeks pregnant, remember that every kick, every stretch, and every milestone is a step closer to meeting your little one. Stay focused on your health, enjoy the journey, and get ready for the incredible adventure of parenthood! You're doing great, and your baby is thriving - cherish these precious moments and look forward to the joy that's about to unfold!

FAQs

Q1- When Do Cervix Checks Start?

Cervix checks typically begin around 36 to 37 weeks (when you are full term). This helps assess dilation and effacement as your due date nears. 

Q2- Why Do I Experience Nausea After Eating During Pregnancy?

Nausea after meals can be due to the increased hormones needed during pregnancy. If you’re experiencing nausea and vomiting, then start eating small portions of food. Avoid greasy foods that are difficult to digest. Consult your doctor for more information. 

Q3- Why Am I Feeling Pressure In My Pelvis And How Can I Relieve It?

Pelvic pressure is common as your baby drops lower in preparation for birth. This is called ‘lightening’ or ‘engagement’. You can relieve it by using a pregnancy support belt, doing pelvic tilts, and resting with your legs elevated. 

Q4- What Are Signs My Amniotic Fluid Level Is Healthy (Or Not)?

Healthy amniotic fluid levels mean your belly is growing steadily and your baby is moving regularly. Too little fluid (oligohydramnios) may cause decreased movement or growth, while too much (polyhydramnios) can lead to rapid belly growth or discomfort. Your doctor may monitor levels with ultrasounds.