Skip to main content
True Joy Birthing
Pregnancy illustration for week 33 — baby Up to half a pound a week

Third Trimester · Week 33

33 Weeks Pregnant: Up to half a pound a week

Baby development

Your baby at 33 weeks

Your baby is still growing steadily and may gain around a quarter to half a pound per week as you get closer to your due date. That rapid growth is one reason everything can suddenly feel tighter in your belly around now.

Your body this week

What you might be feeling at 33 weeks

Down to the details. Hospital bag, car seat, pediatrician, childcare for older kids, postpartum support. You might be feeling big, tired, and ready to be done. Don't forget to plan for postpartum — who's bringing meals? Who's helping?

Shelbi Kohler, certified birth doula

From Shelbi

Shelbi Kohler · mother of seven · certified birth doula

You're getting down to the details now. Hospital bag, car seat, pediatrician, childcare plan for older kids, postpartum support. With my fifth, this was the week I realized I hadn't even thought about what happens AFTER the baby comes — I was so focused on the birth that I forgot about the recovery. If you haven't thought about postpartum yet, start. Who's bringing meals? Who's helping with the older kids? What does your first week at home look like? The moms who plan for postpartum recover faster and feel more supported. I learned that the hard way with my first.

For you

This week is about getting through it

Scroll up to revisit your baby's development and Shelbi's encouragement for week 33. When you're ready, share this week with your partner.

Share this week

Save and share your week 33 card

Download a beautifully designed card with this week's illustration to share with family, friends, or on social media.

Shareable week card preview

Card is 1080×1080 — save the image to share via iMessage, Instagram, or Facebook.

Common questions

33 weeks pregnant: your questions answered

What should I expect at 33 weeks pregnant? +

Down to the details. Hospital bag, car seat, pediatrician, childcare for older kids, postpartum support. You might be feeling big, tired, and ready to...

Is my baby moving normally at 33 weeks? +

Movement patterns vary. If you notice a significant decrease in movement, contact your provider. When in doubt, always call.

Follow every week in the free app

Weekly baby updates, your birth plan, and doula-backed guidance — all free, all in one place.

Download the True Joy Birthing app