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Week 32

Baby’s Getting Ready for the Big Day

Week 32

Welcome to Week 32! Your baby is now about the size of a celeriac, measuring around 16.5–17 inches long and weighing roughly 4 pounds. At this stage, baby is mostly focused on growing bigger and stronger—and getting into position for birth.



What’s Happening in Your Body?



Baby’s bones are hardening, except for the skull, which stays soft and flexible for an easier journey through the birth canal. Their lungs are maturing, and if they were born now, they’d have a very good chance of thriving with a little help.


They’re also starting to settle into a head-down position, though some babies wait until later to flip. Movements may feel different—less like big flips and more like stretches, rolls, and jabs as space gets tighter.


For you, your uterus is now about 5 inches above your belly button, and you might feel all belly at this point.



Common Symptoms This Week



  • Less “acrobatic” baby movements, but still strong kicks and stretches

  • Shortness of breath—baby is taking up more space near your lungs

  • Back pain, hip discomfort, or pelvic pressure

  • Braxton Hicks contractions—may be more frequent now

  • Swelling in feet, hands, and ankles

  • Leaky breasts (colostrum)

  • Trouble sleeping—finding a comfy position is tough

  • More bathroom trips—because baby is pressing even harder on your bladder



And yes, fatigue is creeping back in, much like the first trimester—but heavier.



What You Can Do This Week



  • Keep tracking baby’s movements—they should stay consistent

  • Rest whenever you can and elevate your feet to reduce swelling

  • Sleep on your side with pillows for support

  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals to help with heartburn and fullness

  • Discuss your birth plan with your provider, including labor signs and when to call

  • Finalize baby prep—wash newborn clothes, set up a safe sleeping space, and pack your hospital bag



This is also a great time to start practicing relaxation techniques—deep breathing, gentle stretching, or guided meditations—to help prepare for labor.


And if you haven’t already, log these final weeks—baby’s movement patterns, your emotions, even funny pregnancy moments—in Cubtale to keep these memories forever.



Real Talk



Week 32 is a strange mix of excitement and discomfort. You’re so close, but the weeks can feel long as your body gets heavier and more tired.


You might also be feeling more anxious about labor and parenthood. That’s normal. It doesn’t mean you’re not ready—it just means you care.


Remember, you’re stronger than you think, and you’re almost at the finish line.

We’re not doctors—we’re just parents who’ve been through the late-night Google searches, the “is this normal?” moments, and the waiting game. Everything we share here comes from our own experiences and research, but it’s not medical advice.
 
If you ever have questions or concerns about your pregnancy, always check with your healthcare provider. And if you notice anything we missed or got wrong, we’d love to hear from you—drop us a message anytime.
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