Pregnancy Calendar at Week 33
Mommy, hi there!
We're experiencing your 33rd week of pregnancy, and I’m now the size of a big coconut! 🥥 I tip the scales at around 2,100 grams, and I've already grown over 44 centimeters — such a chunky, cozy little bundle!
My little heart is almost fully developed, similar to a newborn's. It’s actively pumping blood, and special temporary structures like the oval window and bypass protocols are helping me move around properly while I rest. My brain is also growing fast, with nerve centers already starting to regulate my heartbeat, breathing, and other vital functions. And guess what, my little kidneys are now producing urine — I’m starting my own little waste disposal system!
I don’t feel much yet, but I can definitely sense and hear what’s going on around me. Your voice and your heartbeat — that’s my favorite rhythm, making my world so warm and cozy. Thanks for being such a caring mama! 💖
Sending you tight hugs,
Your little tropical delight 🥥
What happens with me
During the first 33 weeks of pregnancy, a woman can experience typical symptoms of this period: baby movements, discomfort in the lower pelvis, and others. These symptoms are normal and don’t require medical intervention.
Changes in life
Life continues to evolve, as the fetus and the placenta get bigger. This can cause discomfort and shortness of breath. In the following weeks, changes in the child's position may decrease these unpleasant feelings. Stretching of the skin on the abdomen can lead to stretch marks and itching. To prevent this, it’s recommended to use moisturizer or oils and wear loose, natural fabrics. Synthetic materials might irritate the skin, increasing itching and redness.
Pain sensations in legs and lower back
Leg pain can appear due to shifting of the center of gravity, caused by the increased size of the uterus. This can lead to disc discomfort and weakness in the lower back muscles, which strengthen during sports activities. A physiotherapist can help with this. Daily wearing of a special bandage can help unload the load on the back and leg muscles. If pain occurs with Vaginismus, it’s advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Vaginal discharge
Throughout pregnancy, a woman can experience different types of discharge. Normally, these are clear. If you notice mucus mixed with blood in the discharge, immediately consult a doctor, as it can indicate premature labor or other serious conditions. Vaginal discharge can also be a sign of genital infections related to hormonal changes or immune system issues. In this case, it’s recommended to seek medical advice promptly.
Medical examination
In the 33rd week of pregnancy, if there are complaints, a woman must undergo a medical examination to detect any conditions.
Doctors
- Obstetric-gynaecologist: a consultation is necessary if there are abnormal vaginal discharges or strong pain in the lower back and other symptoms.
- Prenatal: upon the appearance of swelling, pain, or other symptoms in the heart and other organs, it’s recommended to see a specialist.
- Analysis: A planned visit to a women's consultation will include a clinical blood test and a general urine analysis.
- Complete exclusion of smoking, drug, and alcohol use. Harmful habits, including passive smoking, are especially dangerous during pregnancy.
- Avoid air travel due to sudden atmospheric pressure changes.
- Follow a healthy diet to prevent constipation, salt retention, and acute illnesses that can affect pregnancy.
- Avoid intense sports such as sprinting or lifting weights.
- Avoid sudden aircraft flights due to rapid atmospheric pressure changes.
Prevention
- Take vitamins and B vitamins with microelements that improve well-being and support internal organs.
- Practice breathing gymnastics. It helps reduce stress and prepares for childbirth.
What not to do
- Do not take herbal supplements or medications without consulting your doctor.
- Avoid radiation diagnostics, including fluorography and X-rays.
Helpful Tips
Eating right during pregnancy plays a key role in supporting your health and helping prevent future health issues for your little one. When figuring out the best diet, experts recommend chatting with your doctor or a dietitian to make sure you're getting everything you need. It’s a good idea to review your food choices—like lean meats, fruits, vegetables, nuts, milk, and dairy products—and see if they match up with your cravings and nutritional needs. It's also best to avoid greasy, spicy, fried, or overly salty dishes, as they can increase the risk of developing conditions like gestational obesity, hypertension, and other health problems that can negatively affect your pregnancy.
Why is my pregnancy so tough at 33 weeks?
- As your baby grows, your uterus stretches more and more, making your belly feel solid. But if you're experiencing tightness or discomfort on the second or third trimester, or if the sensation is sharp or intense, it could be Braxton-Hicks contractions (false alarms). These are usually harmless and help prepare your body for labor.
How long does it take for babies to settle into the sleeping pattern by 33 weeks?
- By around 22 weeks, most babies start to develop a sleep-wake cycle. Studies show that after about 35 weeks of pregnancy, most babies are mostly done with their development. The typical pregnancy length is about 40 weeks, but it can vary depending on factors like maternal health and the baby’s development. Babies born much earlier need extra medical support to improve their chances of health.
Can I give birth closer to 33 weeks?
- Births after 37 weeks are considered full term. Usually, the average pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks, and babies born closer to that time are more developed and healthier. However, depending on several factors like the mother’s health and the baby’s growth, early births around 33 weeks can happen. Premature babies born this early will need additional medical care to help them grow and thrive.
CHECKLIST
- My partner and I arrived early at the birth center so we could get some clarity on how long everything would take. In reality, we made quite a few visits at different times of the day to check in. We picked three different routes, just in case.
- Epidural anesthesia, natural birth, or cesarean section — what’s your plan? I’ve prepared a birth plan, including backup options in case things don’t go as expected.
- I’ve thought about how I’ll recover after giving birth and what my body will look like afterwards. I know I won’t bounce back as quickly as I’d like. I’ve packed several things for the first trimester, to give myself a head start in the postpartum phase.
- I learned how to save and store breast milk, especially if I decide to breastfeed. I even set aside some space in the freezer for storing extra bottles of milk!
- I bought a breastfeeding bustier and other accessories, like bottles for feeding and milk storage containers.
