Pregnancy Calendar

What happens to me?

Congratulations, you are now in the third and final trimester of your pregnancy. You will probably gain the majority of the weight from now until around week 36. The weight gain at this point is a good indication that the baby’s development is normal.

The most important thing to remember is that a healthy diet is more important than how much you gain. If you were underweight to begin with, or if you are carrying multiple babies, then your weight gain may be higher than normal. This is nothing to be alarmed about, now is not the time to go on a weight-loss diet that could actually harm the baby.

You should boost your intake of grains and vegetables by about a serving a day from now until you deliver since the baby needs the extra nutrients. Fiber-rich foods, including whole grain breads and cereals, lentils, and brown rice, are high in vitamin B and help fend off constipation.

How much will I be showing?

Your uterus is approximately 3 inches from your belly button. The weight that you gain will be distributed in several places. Since the start of your pregnancy you should have noticed that your breasts have increased in size. Before pregnancy, the average breast weighs about 7 ounces, but during pregnancy each breast can average 28 ounces. Additional weight gain will come from body fluids (i.e., amniotic fluid, blood volume, etc.). Your blood volume increases by as much as 30-50% during pregnancy. Along with maternal fat storage, the rest of your weight gain comes directly from the placenta and the baby itself. At this point, an average weight gain of about 25-30 pounds can be expected.

What happens to baby?

The baby's eyes may begin to open around now. The baby’s response to sound grows more consistent toward the end of the seventh month, when the network of nerves to the ear is complete. The baby will also continue to take small “breaths”. Although it is only breathing in water and not air, it is still great practice for birth.

How big is the baby?

The baby now weighs a little more than 2 pounds and is about 15 inches long with its legs extended (nearly 10 inches crown to rump).

Tip of the Week

Lying on your (left) side when you rest provides the best circulation for the baby. Swelling is sometimes reduced when lying on your side during the day.

Want to figure out your due date? Click Here

Just found out you're pregnant? Don't forget to check out the previous Weeks!