You and Your Baby at Week 30 of Your Pregnancy
Lucy Woodbridge
Reading Time: | Word Count:
How Big is Baby at 30 Weeks?
At 30 weeks your baby, or foetus, measures about 40 cm from head to heel and weighs around 2.9 pounds, or 1.3 kg. This size is comparable to a large cabbage. Your baby’s growth at this stage is focused more on gaining weight rather than length, leading to significant increases in fat accumulation under the skin.
Your baby’s brain is rapidly developing, with the surface becoming more grooved and indented to accommodate more brain cells. Eyesight is also evolving, although vision is limited inside the womb. The baby can now detect light and dark and can even follow a light source. Hearing is well-developed, and the baby may respond to sounds or voices from the outside world.
Your baby’s movements are more pronounced at this stage, so you might feel stronger kicks, rolls, and jabs as the baby shifts positions. Your baby’s movements are not only signs of growth but also indicators of its well-being.
Your Body at 30 Weeks
By week 30, the uterus is about 4 inches above the belly button, making the bump more pronounced. Weight gain is a normal part of pregnancy, with an average gain of about 18 to 25 pounds by this time. This weight supports the baby’s growth and prepares your body for breastfeeding.
Common Pregnancy Symptoms at 30 Weeks
Braxton Hicks Contractions: These are practice contractions that help prepare the uterus for labour. They are usually painless but can be uncomfortable.
Backaches and Leg Cramps: As your body carries more weight, it’s common to experience backaches and leg cramps.
Shortness of Breath: The growing uterus puts pressure on your lungs, leading to shortness of breath.
Heartburn and Indigestion: Hormonal changes and the expanding uterus can lead to digestive issues.
Swelling: Fluid retention can cause swelling in the feet, ankles, and hands.
Insomnia and Nightmares: Lack of sleep is a given at this point, and when you do manage to fall asleep, you’ll probably suffer nightmares, too. These dreams are caused by a combination of hormones and anxiety about becoming a mother – perfectly normal and understandable.
Hormones!
Hormonal fluctuations continue to support pregnancy and prepare your body for childbirth and breastfeeding. These changes can affect your mood and emotions, leading to a more “sensitive” emotional state.
The 30th week of pregnancy can be an emotionally charged time. Anticipation and excitement mix with anxiety and concern about the upcoming labour, delivery, and parenthood. Don’t be afraid or ashamed to seek support from loved ones or professionals. It is also a good idea to engage in stress-relieving activities. Ever thought about taking up knitting?
Diet
A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre is crucial. Foods high in iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important. Hydration is also key, so drinking plenty of water is essential for both your and your baby’s health.
Exercise
Moderate exercise, such as walking or prenatal yoga, can alleviate some physical symptoms and improve overall well-being. However, moving around at all can be extremely challenging at this point, so take it easy!
Prenatal Appointments
Regular prenatal check-ups are vital at this stage. These appointments monitor the health of both you and your baby, checking the baby’s growth, heart rate, and position.
Preparing for Giving Birth
As your due date approaches, it’s important to start preparing for the big moment by attending childbirth classes and preparing a birth plan. Also, make sure you have some baby clothes ready, although it’s pointless buying loads as your baby will grow out of them very quickly.
There is not much longer to go now. Keep going; you’re doing great!