Third Trimester · Week 32
32 Weeks Pregnant: Breathing practice continues
Baby development
Your baby at 32 weeks
Your baby is practicing breathing movements and continuing to build body fat. Even though those breaths are just practice, they are part of preparing the lungs and chest for life after birth.
Your body this week
What you might be feeling at 32 weeks
Birth prep mode. Your baby is getting big, and the reality of labor is setting in. Back pain, heartburn, and trouble sleeping intensify. Now is the time for childbirth classes, writing your birth plan, and touring your hospital.
From Shelbi
Shelbi Kohler · mother of seven · certified birth doula
This is the week where birth preparation should shift from "someday" to "now." If you haven't taken a childbirth class, now is the time. If you haven't written your birth plan, start it. If you haven't toured your hospital or birth center, schedule it. With my first, I thought I had plenty of time at 32 weeks and then suddenly it was 38 weeks and I hadn't done anything. As a doula, I see this all the time — parents who prepare early feel dramatically more confident walking into the birth room. You don't need to know everything, but you need to know what matters to you.
For you
This week is about getting through it
Scroll up to revisit your baby's development and Shelbi's encouragement for week 32. When you're ready, share this week with your partner.
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Common questions
32 weeks pregnant: your questions answered
What should I expect at 32 weeks pregnant? +
Birth prep mode. Your baby is getting big, and the reality of labor is setting in. Back pain, heartburn, and trouble sleeping intensify. Now is the ti...
Is my baby moving normally at 32 weeks? +
Movement patterns vary. If you notice a significant decrease in movement, contact your provider. When in doubt, always call.
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