Week 30 of Pregnancy
Week 30 marks a significant milestone, you're just 10 weeks from your estimated due date! Your baby is putting on more weight and getting stronger each day. You might be feeling more tired, achy, or emotional as your body continues to stretch and support your growing baby. Braxton Hicks contractions may become more noticeable now. It’s a good time to focus on rest, hydration, and preparing for the final stretch.
Baby’s Size
Your baby is about the size of a large cabbage.
Baby’s Development at 30 weeks
More body fat and smoother skin
Your baby’s body is accumulating more fat, making the skin appear smoother rather than wrinkled. This helps regulate body temperature after birth.
Brain development in overdrive
The brain is growing rapidly and developing grooves and indentations, giving it the familiar wrinkled appearance of a mature brain.
Increased movement and coordination
Movements are more deliberate now. You may notice patterns in when your baby is most active, and their kicks or stretches may feel more intense.
Lung and digestive maturity
Although not fully developed, the lungs and digestive system are working hard to prepare for life outside the womb. Surfactant production is increasing to help the lungs function after birth.
Pregnancy Symptoms during Week 30
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As your uterus presses against your diaphragm, you might find it harder to take deep breaths. Sitting upright and avoiding slouching can make breathing easier.
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The baby’s position and increased pressure on your bladder can make trips to the bathroom more frequent, especially at night.
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These practice contractions may feel like mild tightening in your belly. They’re usually irregular and not painful but are a normal part of preparation.
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Skin stretching can lead to dryness and itchiness, especially on your belly and breasts. Moisturizing regularly can soothe irritation.
Pregnancy checklist at 30 weeks pregnant
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Check safety guidelines and practice installing your car seat. Many local services offer free checks to ensure it’s secured properly.
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Start collecting the basics: comfortable clothes, toiletries, and important documents. You don’t have to pack fully just yet, but being ready helps reduce last-minute stress.
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If applicable, speak with your employer about your maternity or parental leave plans and finalize any paperwork.
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Continue drinking plenty of water to support amniotic fluid levels and help with swelling and energy.
30 Weeks Pregnant Belly
At week 30, your bump is round, prominent, and typically sitting high on your abdomen. As your uterus continues to expand upward, it may begin to press against your ribs and lungs, making it harder to take deep breaths and sometimes causing shortness of breath after simple activities like climbing stairs or walking. This high placement can also lead to feelings of fullness even after eating small meals, so eating smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce discomfort.
The weight and size of your uterus can also increase pressure around your pelvis and lower back, leading to aches, stiffness, or difficulty getting comfortable at night. You might find some relief with prenatal yoga, gentle stretches, warm baths, or supportive maternity pillows that help you rest more comfortably.
As the skin across your abdomen stretches to accommodate your growing baby, it’s very common to feel tightness, tingling, or itchiness. Consistent moisturizing with rich creams or oils can soothe these sensations and support your skin’s elasticity. Around this time, you may also notice stretch marks becoming more visible, especially on your belly, thighs, hips, or breasts. These are a normal part of pregnancy and often fade after birth.
Your belly at this stage is a remarkable sign of how far you’ve come in your journey. It’s a symbol of strength, growth, and the incredible bond you’re building with your baby, even before they arrive.
Tips & Resources
Install Car Seat: Check safety guidelines and practice installing your car seat. Many local services offer free checks to ensure it’s secured properly.
Pack a Pre-Hospital Essentials Bag: Start collecting the basics: comfortable clothes, toiletries, and important documents. You don’t have to pack fully just yet, but being ready helps reduce last-minute stress.
Discuss Parental Leave: If applicable, speak with your employer about your maternity or parental leave plans and finalize any paperwork.
Hydration Focus: Continue drinking plenty of water to support amniotic fluid levels and help with swelling and energy.