Pregnancy at 31 Weeks
Yes your baby is now moving a lot more and still putting on weight during this time of your pregnancy getting ready for his entrance into your world.
He now is probably over 16 inches long, weighing in at about 3 1/2 pounds and is about the size of a coconut. A growth spurt is about to begin. Fat is beginning to accumulate under his skin. He is able to move his head from side to side and you are probably feeling a lot of movement. His somersaults will keep you up at night…all of this activity is a sign of health.
Your pregnancy life:
- Braxton Hicks contractions are now part of your life. Your uterine muscles are tightening and relaxing getting ready for labor. These are irregular contractions and only last about 30 seconds, they are infrequent and painless although they may put pressure on your bladder and make you feel like you have to pee.
- Frequent contractions however could be a sign of pre-term labor and you should call your practitioner immediately if you have more than four contractions in an hour or any other signs of labor.
- Signs of Labor:
- Increase in vaginal discharge.
- Change in vaginal discharge (watery, mucusy, or bloody, pink or tinged).
- Abdominal pain.
- Menstrual cramping.
- Increase of pressure in pelvis.
- Low back pain especially if you didn’t have it before.
Breast:
- You might have some leaking of colostrum, if so put some nursing pads in you bra to protect your clothes.
- You may have to buy a larger size bra.
Boy?
Circumcision or not?
You might want to have this discussion now and discuss your questions with your doctor since he will be doing the procedure if you choose to circumcise your little boy.
“I’m 31 weeks along, and at my childbirth classes they’ve been telling us to concentrate on a focal point during labor. Anything from a picture to a crack in the wall or ceiling can work, so long as it helps Mom relax and distracts her from the pain.”
– Becky
Wants and Don’t Wants:
- Pain medication during labor.
I have definite opinions about this as I was a L&D nurse. My advice is to think about your ideal labor and delivery and try to keep an open mind about medication since every labor is different and everyone perceives pain differently. Learn about your options, discuss with your practitioner, your doula, your nurse, whoever you have that you respect their opinions. Remember there is nothing wrong with wanting to be comfortable during labor and welcoming your baby.
Stuff to get done and out of the way.
- Packing your bag.
Although you don’t have to get this done right now you might want to gather your stuff and the little things that will make your hospital stay comfortable. Some things to have on hand.
- Going home outfit for your sweetie.
- Snacks, my favorite is lollipops during labor, Whole Foods has some organic fruit ones that are delicious.
- Socks and slippers.
- Your favorite pillow
- A nursing bra and nightie
- A camera, batteries.
- Clothes for you to wear home.
Annie and Isabel, a company owned by two nurses whom I know, makes beautiful special hospital gowns for new moms. These are my personal favorites. They are great for nursing moms and make any mom feel special after having a baby. They are wonderful for pictures too. Put them on your registry. You can also wear these gowns to doctors check-ups.
Perfect for Moms
Adrienne will be wearing this one, I am gifting it to her…it is one of the prettiest gowns!
I have seen and personally worn Annie and Isabel Hospital Gowns.
Annie & Isabel Designer Hospital Gowns Are Great For… Pregnancy & Delivery Gift yourself, a friend, or family member a comfortable and gorgeous hospital gown to help the new mommy in your life feel beautiful during this precious time. There are many reasons why having your own hospital gown makes sense. There are even more reasons why having an Annie & Isabel hospital gown is the best choice.
Source: Pregnancy and Delivery