Pregnancy Week 30 - Pregnancy Week by Week

Welcome to Pregnancy Week 30.

Changes to Mother During Pregnancy Week 30

The amount of amniotic fluid in your stomach gradually reduces as your baby continues growing. As he grows, he occupies most of the space in your uterus.

Your skin may stretch a little and you may find it very itchy. Some pregnancy oils and creams in soothing this. However if the itching is very intense and severe, contact your doctor immediately.

You may feel as rhythmic twitches in your uterus due to the hiccups that your baby experiences. The pregnancy hormones that assist in continuing your pregnancy slow down digestion. This can cause constipation. You can avoid this with regular exercises. Maintain a healthy diet by eating foods high in fibre, such as vegetables and whole grains.

Progesterone levels increase and your stomach expands considerably. This may cause sleeping discomfort. You can reduce this by using pregnancy pillows or sleeping partly upright. Because of the difficulty in sleeping, you may find this week tiring. You may find changing positions difficult. You may also experience mood swings.

Certain hormones in your body loosen your joints to help you prepare for delivery. This may make you feel that you are about to trip. A comfortable pair of foot wears helps. Most mothers prefer to buy a size bigger than usual. They find this quite comfortable in case of swellings such as after an epidural.

You may consider discussing with your doctor about various pain relief measures as you are now nearing labour. If you have not discussed your birth options with her, this is a good time for you to do so.

Changes to Baby During Pregnancy Week 30

Your baby's activities are becoming increasingly prominent and you will notice more kicks and turns. He moves his hand or leg over your stomach very often. He sucking and swallowing reflexes have improved. His lanugo starts disappearing. He grows taller and gains more weight. His bone marrow produces red blood cells. His brain continues to grow very fast. Toe nails also grow very fast.

Along with weight gain, more fat layers are formed. They make the baby look less wrinkled. They also keep the body warm after birth.

Your baby moves the diaphragm repeatedly and will replicate breathing movements. He does this as part of preparing for respiration after birth. He may also get hiccups.