Week 32 of Pregnancy
Baby practises breathing movements
Your baby is the size of a
Large pawpaw
(Squash) · approximately 42.4 cm
🌟 Baby's Development at Week 32
The baby is practising breathing, swallowing, and sucking. Fingernails have reached the fingertips. The baby's skin is becoming softer and smoother as fat continues to accumulate. The skeleton is fully formed but the bones are still soft. The baby sleeps 90-95% of the day. Hair on the head may be quite thick now.
Length
42.4 cm
Weight
1702 g
💚 Your Body at Week 32
Breathing may be more difficult as the uterus pushes up against your diaphragm. Your navel is likely fully protruding now. You may experience leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, or laugh due to pressure on your bladder.
Common Symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Urinary incontinence when coughing or sneezing
- Heartburn
- Braxton Hicks
- Pelvic pressure
- Varicose veins
💡 Tips for Week 32
Practice Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. Squeeze the muscles you would use to stop urinating, hold for 10 seconds, then release. Repeat 10-15 times, three times a day. This helps with bladder control and can aid recovery after birth.
🥘 Nutrition Advice
Vitamin K helps with blood clotting and is important in the final weeks. Dark leafy greens are the best source. Edikaikong (a Cross River/Akwa Ibom vegetable soup) packed with ugu and water leaf provides excellent vitamin K. Other sources include broccoli, cabbage, and vegetable oil.
🏥 What to Ask Your Doctor
Antenatal visits may increase to weekly from around this time or week 36. Discuss signs of preterm labour: regular contractions, pelvic pressure, lower back pain, or any fluid leaking.
Medical Disclaimer
This tool is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your pregnancy or health condition.