Baby development at 32 weeks
Mineral Storage
Your infant’s system is accumulating essential minerals like iron, calcium, and phosphorus. The iron reserves your baby is developing will sustain them for the initial six months of life, up until the introduction of solid foods.
Developing Lungs
In the upcoming month, your baby’s lungs will have reached full maturity. At present, your baby is practicing respiratory movements by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid.
Genital Development
For parents expecting a boy, the external genitalia is now formed, and his testicles are beginning to descend into the scrotum. In the case of a girl, her uterus and ovaries have taken shape, containing all the eggs she will have.
Your baby is about the size of a jicama
Pregnancy symptoms during week 32
Lightning crotch, though not a medical term, vividly captures the experience of sharp pelvic pains in late pregnancy. Expectant mothers may feel shooting pain through their groin and into the thigh, experiencing sensations like burning or pins-and-needles. Fortunately, these episodes are usually brief.
This discomfort is likely triggered by the pressure exerted by the growing baby. In the third trimester, as the baby descends into the pelvis, it places pressure on the cervix and nerves around the lower uterus. While lightning crotch can be intense, it differs from labor contractions, occurring randomly rather than in a regular pattern.
Swelling of hands and face
Some degree of swelling is normal during pregnancy, but excessive swelling could indicate the serious condition preeclampsia. If you notice severe or sudden swelling in your feet, ankles, hands, face, or puffiness around your eyes, contact your healthcare provider. Managing mild to moderate swelling involves daily exercise, staying hydrated, wearing comfortable shoes, using compression stockings, elevating your legs when resting, and sleeping on your left side.
Itching skin
Skin stretching during pregnancy can cause itching, exacerbated by hormonal changes, heat sensitivity, and dry air. For persistent itching, especially with conditions like eczema, consult your provider about safe topical, over-the-counter anti-itch medications. Severe itchiness may signal underlying issues such as cholestasis, requiring prompt medical attention. Pregnancy-specific skin conditions like PUPPP can also cause intense itching, treated with topical ointments, oral antihistamines, or oral steroids.
Stretch marks
As your body rapidly expands to accommodate your growing baby, stretch marks may appear, especially on the belly and breasts. Genetics, rapid weight gain, multiples pregnancy, a large baby, and excess amniotic fluid influence their likelihood. While various creams claim to help, preventing or minimizing stretch marks is challenging. Gaining a healthy amount of pregnancy weight may reduce their severity. Stretch marks typically become less noticeable 6 to 12 months post-childbirth, and dermatologists can provide advice on minimizing their appearance.
Varicose veins
Many women experience or worsen varicose veins during pregnancy due to pressure on the inferior vena cava from the growing uterus. Hormonal changes and increased blood volume also contribute. While commonly found on the legs, varicose veins can occur in the pelvic area or buttocks. Staying active, taking breaks, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, not crossing your legs, and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent or alleviate varicose veins.
Appetite changes
Towards the end of pregnancy, some women may notice a decrease in appetite. As the baby approaches its birth weight, internal organs become crowded, making large meals less tolerable. Despite reduced hunger, it’s essential to ensure both you and your baby receive sufficient nutrition. In the third trimester, aim for an extra 300 calories daily by consuming small, frequent meals and snacks with a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
Pregnancy checklist at 32 weeks
Get Ready for Breastfeeding
Prepare for breastfeeding by delving into the essentials if you’re a first-time mom. Seek advice from experienced mothers, read through essential breastfeeding tips, and think about joining a local breastfeeding class for hands-on learning.
Additionally, consider incorporating breast pumping into your plans. Even if you’ll be staying at home, ordering a pump through your insurance can be beneficial. Many mothers use pumps to boost milk supply or involve partners and family members in the feeding process using bottles.
Breastfeeding is both rewarding and challenging, so having a support system is crucial. While you focus on nourishing your little one, enlist the help of your partner and loved ones for tasks like preparing meals, running errands, spending time with older children, and caring for the baby when you need a break.
Selecting the Perfect Baby Name
Narrow down your list of baby names using our Baby Names Finder. Filter names by popularity, letter, origin, theme, and meaning. If you and your partner are having trouble agreeing, try a simple exercise: each create a list of ten names, exchange lists, and cross out names until you find a set that works for both of you.
Crafting Your Birth Experience
Make decisions about who will be present in the delivery room. Feel free to keep the setting private if you prefer, with only your partner and medical staff present. Consider expectations for visitors after the baby’s arrival and set boundaries early to ensure you have the rest and bonding time you need.
Stocking Up for Postpartum
Prepare for your first few weeks at home by stocking up on essentials. Consider pantry staples, toiletries, and any regular medications. Ensure you have easy-to-prepare, nonperishable food, and think about filling your freezer with prepared meals or exploring the frozen section at the grocery store. Gather postpartum care items for both yourself and the baby, including diapers, wipes, sanitary pads, and comfortable postpartum underwear. Check baby clothes and, if needed, ensure you have bottles and enough formula.
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