Pregnancy Week 33

Week by Week

33-weeks Your baby is about 19 inches in length and weighs about 4 1/3 pounds. Your baby may respond to loud noises, and is able to recognize familiar sounds such as your voice. He or she may also respond to your touch as you massage your tummy. Your growing baby is now quite adept at inhaling amniotic fluid. This practice breathing is all in preparation for his or her birth, which is only a matter of weeks away. Your baby is now storing iron in his or her liver, which will last until a few months after birth.

The top of your uterus is over 5 inches above your belly button. You may be getting more anxious about labor and delivery (especially if this is your first baby) and in addition, you may be moodier and more irritable.

You may also be wondering if it’s still alright to travel now, especially if it’s summertime. If you are planning to travel, you may want to talk to your doctor or midwife beforehand. Flying is probably still alright, but if you can avoid it, then you should. Many doctors recommend that women avoid flying after 36 weeks of pregnancy, or if they are at risk of preterm delivery. The safest time to travel is during the second trimester. Also, many airlines won’t even allow women in their last trimester to fly without a letter from their doctor. If you travel by car, it’s best to stop every hour or two to get up and walk around.

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