Week 33 of pregnancy: growth and changes in your body

By the time you reach week 33 of pregnancy, you are at a crucial moment where every day is one step closer to the great moment of meeting your baby.

At Happymami, we are here to support you on this journey full of emotions, changes and preparations. Our mission is to offer you up-to-date information and practical advice so that you can face this phase with calm and confidence.

In this article, we will offer you a guide to the changes you might experience during week 33, tips for looking after yourself and your baby, and recommendations for organising everything you need before your baby arrives. At Happymami, we value every moment of your pregnancy and we want you to feel accompanied and understood.

Week 33 of pregnancy: your baby's development

During week 33 of pregnancy, your baby's development is well advanced. At this stage, your baby continues to gain weight and their brain develops quickly. The bones are getting stronger, but the skull stays soft and flexible to make birth easier.

Your baby may also start to get into position for birth, usually head down. It is a period of growth and preparation for both the baby and the mother.

• Growth: Your baby's size and weight keep increasing; they measure around 43 to 47 centimetres from head to toe and weigh approximately between 1.9 and 2.3 kilograms. These figures can vary, as every pregnancy is unique and foetal growth may differ from one baby to another.
• Organs: The lungs are almost fully formed, practising “amniotic breathing”, which is essential for their first breath at birth. The nervous system is becoming more refined, improving their ability to regulate their temperature.
• Movement and reflexes: Movements are more vigorous and reflexes such as sucking and grasping are becoming sharper, which will be vital for feeding and sensory exploration after birth.
• Sensitivity: The ability to react to external stimuli is more developed; your baby may respond to lights, sounds and touch.
• Positioning: Your baby gets into position for birth, ideally head down, helping to make birth safer.
• Fat reserves: Fat stores continue to build up, helping with temperature regulation and giving your baby a chubbier look.

Week 33 of pregnancy: changes and discomforts

In week 33 of pregnancy, it is common to experience various changes and discomforts, such as more pressure on the pelvis due to your baby's growth, difficulty sleeping, and possible swelling in the feet and hands.

Braxton Hicks contractions may also appear, along with a greater need to urinate, and skin changes such as stretch marks or itching. It is essential to keep well hydrated, rest properly, and have regular appointments with your healthcare professional.

Symptoms of week 33 of pregnancy.

During week 33 of pregnancy, it is common to experience a series of characteristic symptoms:

1. Frequent urination: Your baby's increasing size presses on the bladder, causing the need to urinate more often, even with possible involuntary leaks. Using light protection and keeping well hydrated are recommended.
2. Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions may become stronger as birth gets closer. They differ from real contractions in their duration and irregularity.
3. Swelling in the legs: The pressure of the uterus on the veins can cause swelling, especially in the legs. Elevating your feet and wearing comfortable shoes can relieve this symptom.
4. Carpal tunnel syndrome: Fluid retention can press on the nerves in the wrists, causing numbness or tingling.
5. Itchy skin: The stretched skin of the abdomen and breasts can become dry and irritated. Moisturising creams and gentle baths can offer relief.
6. Abdominal cramps: These should be monitored, as they can be a sign of premature labour, especially if they come with other symptoms such as diarrhoea.

Tips for week 33 of pregnancy

As you reach week 33 of your pregnancy, it is essential to focus on optimal nutrition, choosing foods rich in essential nutrients that support your baby's development. Don't forget to keep well hydrated, which is fundamental for your wellbeing and that of your little one.

If your doctor approves, continue with moderate exercise to help you relieve stress and prepare your body for birth. This moment is also ideal for reviewing and finalising your birth plan, making sure your hospital bag is ready and within reach.

Keep in constant communication with your doctor, especially if you notice significant changes in your health or in your baby's movements. Mental health is as important as physical health during this period; if you feel overwhelmed or anxious, seek support from your partner, family members or professionals who can offer you the emotional support you need.

Use these days to finish off the details at home, making sure everything is ready for your baby's arrival. Talk to your partner or the person supporting you about how you will organise visits and share out responsibilities once the baby has been born.

Finally, take time to look after yourself and pamper yourself. Whether reading, enjoying your favourite hobby or simply resting, it is important to find moments for yourself during these last days of pregnancy. Remember, at Happymami we are with you at every step of this beautiful journey, supporting you and giving you the information and care you deserve and need.

Frequently asked questions about week 33 of pregnancy

What happens if I give birth at week 33?

If you give birth at week 33, your baby is considered premature. Babies born at this stage usually need special care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to help them with breathing, feeding and regulating their body temperature, because their organs are still maturing.

Most babies born at week 33 have a positive prognosis with the right care and can, in time, reach the development of babies born at term.

What is the ideal weight of a baby at 33 weeks?

The ideal weight of a baby at 33 weeks of gestation usually ranges between 1.9 and 2.3 kilograms, although it can vary depending on several factors, including genetics and the mother's health during pregnancy.

Which pains are normal at 33 weeks of pregnancy?

At 33 weeks of pregnancy, it is normal to experience pains such as lower back pain due to weight gain and changes in posture, pelvic pain from your baby's pressure, and leg cramps linked to circulatory changes. Braxton Hicks contractions can also appear, and they are normal but should be monitored.

Why does your bump go hard at week 33?

Your bump can go hard at week 33 of pregnancy because of Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions that prepare the uterus for birth. They are not regular or progressive like real labour contractions. It can also be due to your baby's growth and movements.

How big is a baby at 33 weeks?

A baby at 33 weeks usually measures around 43 to 47 centimetres from head to toe and their development continues to advance quickly in preparation for birth.