Week 32: Practicing Breathing and Gaining Weight Fast

Your baby is gaining weight quickly now — roughly half of their eventual birth weight will be gained from this point onward. Practice breathing movements, using the diaphragm to move amniotic fluid in and out of the lungs, are becoming more regular.

Fingernails have grown to reach the fingertips, and toenails are close behind. Your baby's skin is becoming smoother and less wrinkled as fat continues accumulating underneath.

Your uterus is now quite large, and many women feel the physical limitations of late pregnancy more clearly — bending over, getting comfortable, and finding good sleep positions all become more challenging.

At 32 weeks, common experiences include:

• Significant fatigue
• Backaches
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling
• Difficulty sleeping
• Heartburn
• Increased frequency of Braxton Hicks contractions

Your baby's rapid weight gain means continued attention to protein and overall calorie adequacy matters. This isn't the time to restrict eating, even if you're feeling large and uncomfortable.

Continue gentle movement as tolerated. Many women find that swimming offers particular relief at this stage, as the water supports the significant extra weight being carried.

This week:

• Have your hospital bag fully packed if you haven't already
• Review your birth plan with your partner or support person
• Discuss signs of labor with your doctor so you know what to watch for

Your doctor will likely check your baby's position at this visit and may discuss what to expect if your baby isn't yet head-down, including time remaining for a natural shift into position.