When I hit 32 weeks pregnant, it was like a switch flipped. Suddenly, everything felt more real — my belly was huge, my back ached, and I was officially in the home stretch. I remember feeling this mix of excitement and, let’s be honest, panic. There was so much to do, and it felt like time was moving faster than I could keep up with.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have moments of doubt during those weeks. The heartburn, the shortness of breath, and the sleepless nights were wearing me down. But I also remember how exciting it was to start feeling closer to the finish line. Now that you’re 32 weeks pregnant, I want you to know that you’re not alone in this. I’ve been there, and I get how you’re feeling. The last few weeks can be challenging, but they are also full of beautiful moments.
In this post, I’m sharing everything I wish I knew when I was 32 weeks pregnant, including what to expect, how to feel more comfortable, and what you should be doing to get ready for the big day. Let’s dive into this amazing (and sometimes tough) part of pregnancy together!
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1. Your Baby’s Development at 32 Weeks Pregnant
At 32 weeks, your baby is growing at a rapid pace. They’re putting on weight and fine-tuning their skills for life outside the womb. Here’s a glimpse of what’s happening inside that belly of yours:
Size and Weight : Your baby is now the size of a cabbage or a squash — about 16 to 17 inches long and weighing between 3.5 and 4.5 pounds. That’s one big baby you’re carrying! In the next few weeks, they’ll gain about half a pound every week, which means they’ll be getting chubbier and ready to regulate their body temperature on their own.
Lungs and Nervous System : Your baby’s lungs are maturing, and they’re practicing breathing by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid. This is such an important milestone for them, as their lungs need to be strong and ready for that first breath of air. The central nervous system is also developed enough now that if your baby were born this month, they’d be able to survive with some medical support.
Position : Many babies start to move into the head-down position around this time in preparation for birth, though there’s still some room to flip around. If your baby hasn’t flipped yet, don’t worry — there’s still time!
Sensory Development : Your baby is now able to hear distinct sounds, including your voice, and may startle at loud noises. It’s such a fun (and a little strange) feeling knowing your little one can hear you!
2. Changes in Your Body at 32 Weeks Pregnant
As your baby grows, your body is working overtime to make room for them. Here’s a rundown of what to expect at 32 weeks pregnant:
Shortness of Breath : Your growing uterus is pushing up against your lungs, making it harder to catch your breath. I remember having to stop mid-conversation to take a few deep breaths. It can be frustrating, but taking a minute to rest and breathe deeply helps.
Braxton Hicks Contractions : These “practice” contractions are your body’s way of preparing for labor. They can feel uncomfortable, but they’re usually irregular and don’t last long. I found that changing positions or sipping water helped me manage them when they happened.
Increased Vaginal Discharge : You may notice more discharge as your body prepares for delivery. This is normal, and it helps protect against infections. It’s also common to leak colostrum (the first milk) from your breasts at this stage. Don’t be alarmed — it’s all part of the process!
Backaches and Pelvic Pressure : As your baby gets heavier, you might experience back pain or pelvic pressure. I found that doing pelvic tilts or resting with my feet up gave me some relief, and it helped me feel a little bit better as I went about my day.
Nesting Instincts : Around this time, many moms-to-be experience an overwhelming urge to get everything ready for the baby. I spent hours organizing the nursery, folding baby clothes, and making lists. While nesting can be a wonderful thing, just make sure you don’t overdo it. You’re doing enough already!
3. Tips for Staying Comfortable at 32 Weeks Pregnant
I know how hard it can be to stay comfortable in these final weeks, but trust me, you’ve got this! Here are some tips that helped me feel a little more at ease:
Rest and Relax : I can’t stress this enough — listen to your body! If you’re feeling tired, take a nap. You’re doing a lot of work, so don’t feel guilty about taking breaks. Your body needs it more than you think.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate : Staying hydrated is key to managing Braxton Hicks contractions and keeping your energy up. I kept a water bottle by my side all day and sipped it constantly. It helped with everything from reducing swelling to making sure I stayed comfortable.
Support Your Back and Belly : A pregnancy pillow was my best friend at 32 weeks. Whether I was lounging on the couch or trying to sleep, having extra support for my belly and back made a huge difference. If you don’t have one yet, it’s worth getting!
Gentle Movement: Although you might feel like lying in bed all day (trust me, I’ve been there), staying active can help ease some of the aches and pains. Even gentle stretching or walking around the block can keep your body feeling better. I did some light prenatal yoga and felt so much more flexible.
Take Breaks : I found myself needing more breaks than usual, whether it was from standing, sitting, or walking around. Make sure to give yourself permission to sit down and relax when you need to.
4. Things to Do at 32 Weeks Pregnant
At 32 weeks pregnant, you’re entering the final stretch, and it’s time to start getting serious about preparations. Here are some things I did to get ready for the big day:
Prepare Your Birth Plan : It’s never too early to start thinking about your birth plan. Consider what kind of pain relief options you’d like and what your preferences are for delivery. If you’re still unsure about certain aspects, talk to your doctor. I had a plan, but I knew things could change, so I kept an open mind.
Track Baby’s Movements : Make sure to keep track of your baby’s movements. Your doctor might suggest doing a daily “kick count” to ensure your baby is moving regularly. If you notice a significant decrease in activity, don’t hesitate to call your doctor.
Stock Up on Postpartum Essentials : It’s not just about baby items — you’ll need things for yourself too! At 32 weeks, I started preparing my postpartum kit with essentials like pads, nipple cream, and snacks for after delivery. Getting these things ready early made life easier when I was recovering.
Get the RSV Vaccine (If Applicable) : During RSV season, your doctor might recommend the Abrysvo vaccine to protect your baby from severe respiratory illness. It’s something to ask your doctor about if it’s relevant to your situation.
5. Expert Insight : What the Experts Say?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advises that by 32 weeks pregnant, it’s important to keep track of your baby’s movements and prepare for delivery. Research shows that consistent fetal movement is a strong indicator of your baby’s well-being. If you ever notice any changes in your baby’s movement patterns, be sure to reach out to your healthcare provider right away.
6. Wrapping Up with Love & Support
Mama, you are doing an incredible job. I know it’s not easy, but you’re almost there. Yes, the discomforts can be overwhelming, but remember — they’re all part of the beautiful journey to bringing your baby into the world. You’ve made it so far, and you’re stronger than you think.
Don’t forget to be kind to yourself, take breaks when you need them, and lean on your support system. You’ve got this, and soon enough, you’ll be holding that sweet baby in your arms.
What’s been the most challenging part of your pregnancy so far? I’d love to hear from you — share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s support each other through this final stretch! And don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter for more tips and advice to help you through the next few weeks. You’ve got this, mama!