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You're only 10 weeks away until your baby arrives. The 30th week of your pregnancy will come along with some difficulties and questions. Be prepared to face them and learn how to make things much easier and comfortable for you and your baby. As your due date is getting closer, new feelings will start around this time. Let’s take a look at how things are going during the 30th week of your pregnancy.
Your baby at week 30 of pregnancy
It is getting crowded there, for sure. Your baby is growing fast and taking up more space.
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How big is your baby at 30 weeks pregnant?
At 30 weeks pregnant your baby is about the size of a head of cabbage. It weighs around 3 pounds (1.36 kg). Although your belly might make you feel like you have watermelon inside, the baby’s height is around 15 inches (38 cm).
As the baby grows, the amount of amniotic fluid will be reduced. This is a great sign of normal growth.
30 weeks pregnant baby position
Just as you are preparing for the big day, so is your little one. At 30 weeks, your baby will be in a head-down position. He has turned down and is expecting to descend further into your pelvis over the coming few weeks.
Pregnancy week 30 fetal development
The eyes of your baby are starting to distinguish what is surrounding them.
The baby can now put the difference between light and dark. When babies are born, they can only focus on objects found right in front of their faces. But still, your baby will continue to be with closed eyes for a good amount of time.
The major organs are developed. Your baby will gain half a pound (230 g) each week to protect the body systems that are developed. Your baby's hearing is improved and you can even see him move as a response to some loud sounds.
Your body at week 30 of pregnancy
Just look down at your belly. You walk the last steps on your way to see your baby. These days you may be feeling extra tired. Try to find a comfortable sleeping position. It is better to go to sleep earlier than usual and sleep in longer in the morning.
Getting enough sleep is really important now. Take a nap during the day. It will improve your energy.
30 weeks pregnant belly
At this stage, your baby will take up a larger portion of your uterus. Your uterus will expand underneath your rib cage to allow more room for your growing baby. You can begin to feel clumsier. As your belly grows, the gravity point shifts a bit. You may feel like you're losing your balance.
30 weeks pregnant symptoms
When you reach the 30th week of your pregnancy, you will be experiencing some of the following symptoms:
- Having trouble sleeping. You may notice that you are more tired than usual and having difficulties to fall asleep at night. Experiment with your sleeping positions. If you're having insomnia, consult with your doctor.
- Back pain. Back pain is a really common symptom of pregnancy. Usually, it gets worse in the third trimester. You have around 10 weeks left in your pregnancy and you have gained additional weight.
- Cramps. Your body is under some strain. Your baby is occupying the space. You have all of your muscles, bones, hormones and blood vessels working for two people. All of this can cause cramps. Drink enough fluids and try to get some rest. If it doesn’t stop, call the doctor.
- Mood swings. It is normal to start experiencing mood swings during this period. There are a lot of things going through your mind, and you're feeling more tired with the extra weight put on your body. If the mood swings cause you a hard time to fall asleep and interfere with your everyday activities, talk to your doctor. It is a common thing among pregnant women to experience depression during or after the pregnancy. Tell your doctor how you feel and he or she will help you manage it. Here are some tips that might help you with your mood swings.
- Your feet will change in size or structure. Some women can go up even for a full shoe size during the pregnancy. This is the right time for you to invest in a quality pair of shoes that will offer you comfort until the end of your pregnancy. Forget about the high heel, and take care of your foot.
30 weeks pregnant ultrasound
Having an ultrasound done in the 30th week is not essential, but some health providers can order a scan to see the growth and development of the baby. Your baby's facial lines are more developed. You may even notice whether your baby's eyes are open on the ultrasound.
Besides the ultrasound, you will have a fetal non-stress test performed. A belt will be attached on your abdomen in order to measure the heart rate of the baby and another belt will measure contractions. The non-stress test can say whether the baby is not receiving the needed oxygen or indicate some other types of fetal distress.
30 weeks pregnant lifestyle
- Eat starchy food like potatoes and cereals. Vegetables and lean meats must be also added to your diet. These types of foods reduce the risk of getting diarrhea during pregnancy. Avoid foods that are high in sugars. So, if you are experiencing diarrhea for a couple of days, call your doctor.
- Stay active. Walk for 30 minutes, several times a week. You can do dancing or swimming as well. Women that are physically more active during the pregnancy have a shorter labor time.
- Take enough vitamins and minerals. Ask your doctor for the right dosage.
Sex at week 30 of pregnancy
As long as you are not having any complications, there are no concerns about having sex during the 30th week of pregnancy. Keep your hygiene at a good level. Search for some positions that will be comfortable for you.
30 weeks pregnant checklist
- Make a birthing plan. Now it is the perfect time to think about the details of the birthing plan. Discuss who you want to be with you in the labor room. Gather more information about the types of anesthesia. Discuss these things with your partner and consult with your doctor as well.
- Learn about relaxation techniques for labor and patterned breathing that will allow you to be more calm and relaxed.
- Set up your nursery room. Remember that the baby is not likely to arrive on the expected due date. Setting up the nursery room on time would be a great relief to you. Do this while your belly hasn’t grown too big. Buy a crib that fulfills the latest safety guidelines. It is important to be sure that you have a safe spot for your baby to sleep after he or she is born.
- Buy a car seat. Assure yourself that you have a safe way to bring home your baby from the hospital. Be prepared on time, and you won’t have that many things going through your head.
What to ask your doctor?
Ask your doctor about the difference between real contractions and Braxton Hicks contractions. You may start having painful contractions and they may be more frequent. Chances are really big that you may be having real contractions. If you are not sure whether you are in labor, and if you are noticing vaginal spotting or fluid leakage, call your doctor right away.