ParentSide
Join for free
Third trimester

32 Weeks Pregnant

Getting bigger

This week your baby is around the size of a squash.

How your baby is developing

  • Your baby continues to grow, and space can feel tighter.
  • There's less space now, but you should still feel movements at the same rate until birth.

What may be happening in your body

  • As your baby gets bigger there's less space in your womb — but you should still feel movements at the same rate as before, right up until you give birth.
  • Over the next four weeks you'll gain around 450g a week, and your baby is putting on weight too — extra fat that helps them keep a steady temperature after birth.
  • Indigestion or heartburn can flare up as your baby crowds your stomach.

How you may be feeling

  • Giving yourself permission to slow down can feel both necessary and a little frustrating now.
  • Feeling ready one day and daunted the next is a common rhythm at this stage.
  • Feeling your baby's steady company through the day can bring a new, protective closeness for some.

Worth remembering

If there are any changes to your baby's pattern of movements, or movements stop, contact your midwife or hospital as soon as possible.

A closer look

Head down, getting into position

Your baby is probably head down by now, ready for birth — this is called cephalic presentation. Try not to worry if that's not the case, as there's still time for them to turn. If your baby is not head down by around week 36, your doctor or midwife might offer ways to encourage them into position.

Heartburn and indigestion

Your growing baby presses on your stomach and pregnancy relaxes the muscles that normally keep acid down, so heartburn and indigestion are common now. Smaller, more frequent meals and sitting up while you eat rather than lying down soon after help many people. Propping your head and shoulders up in bed can ease it at night.

Something you can do this week

Comfortable positions and rest can help you through the day.

What comes next

From here, thoughts often turn more and more toward the birth itself.

Professional support

Services ParentSide defines for this stage. Each page explains what the service covers and which professionals are approved to provide it.

All ParentSide services →

Sources and updates

Sources

Last reviewed:
This content is based on estimated averages and general information; it does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned about yourself or your baby, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

All pregnancy weeks →