Week 31 of Pregnancy
You're now well into your third trimester, and both you and your baby are continuing to grow and prepare for birth. You might be feeling more fatigued, having trouble sleeping, and noticing more intense baby movements. Your baby is becoming more responsive to the outside world, and your body is steadily adjusting for labor. It's a great time to focus on comfort, rest, and final preparations.
Baby’s Size
Your baby is about the size of a coconut.
Baby’s Development at 31 weeks
Senses Are Sharpening
Your baby’s eyes can now react to light, and their pupils can constrict and dilate. They're also becoming more responsive to sounds, including your voice and heartbeat.
Immune System Boost
Antibodies are being transferred from your body to your baby to help build their immune system and protect them after birth.
Weight Gain & Muscle Tone
Your baby is rapidly gaining fat and muscle, making their body rounder and stronger. You may feel strong kicks or stretches as their space gets tighter.
Digestive System Maturing
The digestive system is almost fully formed and practicing processing nutrients. Your baby is swallowing amniotic fluid regularly to prepare for feeding.
Pregnancy Symptoms during Week 31
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You might notice some yellowish fluid (colostrum) leaking from your nipples. This is a sign your body is preparing for breastfeeding.
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As your belly grows, extra pressure is put on your lower back and hips, causing aches and stiffness.
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Mild swelling is common now due to fluid retention and pressure from your uterus. Elevating your legs and staying hydrated can help.
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Hormonal shifts and physical discomfort can cause strange dreams or disrupted sleep patterns.
Pregnancy checklist at 31 weeks pregnant
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Go over your preferences and discuss them with your care provider. Consider flexibility in your choices in case labor goes differently than expected.
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Wash and fold newborn clothing, set up the nursery or sleeping space, and make sure essential baby items are ready.
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Batch cook and freeze simple meals to ease the transition during your early postpartum weeks.
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Gentle exercise like walking or prenatal yoga can help with circulation, mood, and flexibility, especially as labor approaches.
31 Weeks Pregnant Belly
By week 31, your belly is noticeably larger and likely attracting a lot of attention. As your baby continues to grow and your uterus expands, you may feel increasingly front-heavy, which can affect your balance, posture, and energy levels. Everyday movements like getting up from a chair or rolling over in bed may require more effort, and it’s important to take things slowly and listen to your body.
The skin across your belly is under more tension, which can cause it to feel tight, itchy, or sensitive. Using a thick moisturizer or belly oil daily can provide relief and help minimize discomfort. Around this stage, stretch marks may become more visible, appearing in shades of pink, red, purple, or brown depending on your skin tone. These marks are a natural part of pregnancy and often fade in the months following birth.
One of the most exciting developments is how dramatic baby movements may appear from the outside. You might see your belly shift, ripple, or bounce as your baby kicks, stretches, or rolls. These movements are not only fascinating to watch, but also a reassuring sign of your baby’s activity and growth. Your partner or support person may also be able to feel or see these movements, which can be a special bonding moment.
Your growing bump is a powerful reminder of the amazing work your body is doing. Each day brings you closer to meeting your little one, and your belly proudly shows just how far you’ve come.
Tips & Resources
Use a Belly Support Band: A maternity support band can relieve lower back strain and help with posture during daily activities.
Mindful Breathing Practice: Try practicing slow, deep breathing each day. It can reduce anxiety and prepare you for labor coping techniques.
Talk About Infant Feeding: Discuss your feeding plans with your partner and look into local breastfeeding or formula support resources.
Free Resource Suggestion: Download ChildbirthU’s Breastfeeding Support Guide for helpful positioning tips and early feeding expectations.