from 32 full weeks + 0 days to 32 full weeks + 6 days
Size of A pineapple
- The baby now weighs around 2 kilograms and continues to gain weight quickly.
- The lungs are maturing and the baby practices breathing movements more frequently.
- The skeleton is hardening but the skull remains soft to allow passage through the birth canal.
- The baby has less room to move but the kicks can feel stronger.
- The immune system continues to strengthen through antibodies from the mother.
Physical changes
- The belly is large and heavy – your center of gravity has shifted considerably.
- The pelvic joints are beginning to loosen in preparation for labor, which can cause pain.
- You may notice that you waddle more when you walk.
Common symptoms
- Pelvic pain or symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD).
- Sleep problems – difficulty finding a comfortable position.
- Numbness or tingling in the hands (pregnancy-related carpal tunnel syndrome).
- Increased fatigue despite wanting to get things done.
- Shortness of breath that can make it hard to talk during walks.
Emotional changes
- Worry about labor may increase – talk to your midwife about it.
- Anticipation and impatience mix with nervousness.
- A need to prepare and plan – the nesting instinct.
- Pack your hospital bag if you haven't already – include clothes for you and the baby, a charger, toiletries, and snacks.
- Write down your birth plan and discuss it with your midwife.
- Rest regularly during the day – short rest breaks make a big difference.
- Sleeping position: on your side with pillows supporting the belly and between the knees.
Appointments & check-ups
- Midwife checkup to assess the baby's position – ideally the head should be down by now.
- Blood pressure, weight, and urine test.
- Discuss your birth plan with your midwife.
Important
- Contact the delivery ward if you have regular, painful contractions that do not subside.
- Decreased fetal movements should always be assessed – do not hesitate to call.
- Sudden swelling, vision disturbances, or severe headache require urgent assessment.
Good to eat
- Small, nutritious meals frequently throughout the day – the stomach doesn't have room for large portions.
- Protein-rich snacks such as nuts, yogurt, or eggs.
- Iron-rich foods: red meat, lentils, tofu, and leafy green vegetables.
- Fruit and berries for vitamins and antioxidants.
Be aware of
- Herbal teas should be consumed with caution – some herbs are not recommended during pregnancy.
- Raspberry leaf tea is sometimes mentioned before labor but should not be started before week 36, and only after consulting your midwife.
- Limit licorice and caffeine.
Avoid
- Unpasteurized dairy products.
- Raw fish, raw meat, and raw eggs.
- Alcohol.
- Herbs and natural supplements without your midwife's approval.
Supplements
- Iron as needed – vitamin C (such as a glass of orange juice) improves absorption.
- Vitamin D.
- Omega-3.
Movement helps with many discomforts but should not cause pain. Adjust activities to your body and energy level.
Labor preparation yoga: practice being in uncomfortable positions with the help of breathing. It trains your ability to manage contractions.
Suggested activities
- Short walks – preferably several times a day instead of one long walk
- Prenatal yoga focusing on hip openers and deep breathing
- Pelvic movements on a Pilates ball
- Swimming or aqua exercise
Avoid
- Activities that cause pelvic pain
- Running or jumping if it feels uncomfortable
- Heavy strength training
Pelvic floor exercises
Pelvic floor training is more important than ever. Practice consciously relaxing the pelvic floor – it is just as important as being able to squeeze.
Sources
The content on this website is based on information from 1177.se and the Swedish Food Agency. It does not replace professional medical advice. Always contact your midwife or doctor with questions about your pregnancy.