Introduction

Welcome to your 33rd week of pregnancy! Congratulations on making it this far—it’s an exciting milestone as your baby grows and your body prepares for delivery.

With just a few weeks left until you meet your little one, this stage is all about growth, preparation, and reassurance.

Here, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about this week—how your baby is developing, what changes you can expect, and how to stay healthy and prepared for the big day.

Baby’s Development at Week 33

Your little one is almost ready to meet the world! Here are some exciting developmental highlights happening at this stage:

• Size & Weight: Your baby now weighs about 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) and measures between 43 to 45 centimeters (about 17–18 inches) in length. They are about the size of a pineapple!
• Reflexes: Reflexes like sucking and swallowing are fully developed as your baby practices essential movements for life outside the womb.
• Brain Growth: Rapid brain development is underway, allowing your baby to respond to external stimuli like light, sound, and touch.
• Lung Maturation: The lungs are producing surfactant, a substance that will help them expand and stay open after birth.
• Fat Layers: More fat is being added under the skin to regulate their body temperature, preparing them for life outside of your womb.
• Breathing Practice: Your baby is mimicking breathing by moving amniotic fluid in and out of their lungs.

Most babies also begin to settle into a head-down position during this time, preparing for delivery.

The third trimester comes with noticeable physical and emotional changes as your body adjusts to your baby’s growth.

Physical Symptoms

• Back Pain & Pelvic Discomfort
  The extra weight of your baby may put pressure on your back and pelvis, leading to discomfort. Light stretches or prenatal yoga can help ease this pain.
• Braxton Hicks Contractions
  These mild, irregular contractions help your uterus prepare for labor. They are usually painless but may become more noticeable now.
• Swelling (Edema)
  Swelling in your feet, legs, and hands is common as your body retains more fluids. Elevating your feet and staying hydrated can help reduce this.
• Shortness of Breath
  With your growing baby pressing on your diaphragm, deep breathing may feel harder. Simple tips like sitting upright and sleeping with your chest elevated can provide relief.
• Breast Changes
  Your breasts may feel heavier or fuller as they prepare for breastfeeding, and you might even notice a slight leak of colostrum (early milk).

Emotional Symptoms

• Excitement & Anticipation
  You might feel a mix of excitement and anxiety as you count down the weeks to delivery.
• Nesting Instinct
  It’s common to feel an urge to organize and clean as you prepare your home for your baby.

Staying healthy and comfortable during the 33rd week is your top priority. Here’s how to maintain your wellbeing:

1.Nutrition

• Iron-Rich Foods
  Eat spinach, lentils, and lean meats to prevent anemia, which is common in late pregnancy.
• Calcium Sources
  Include dairy, green leafy vegetables, and almonds to support your baby’s developing bones.
• Omega-3 Fats
  Foods like flaxseeds, walnuts, and fish promote brain development for your baby.

2.Stay Active

• Exercise
  Walk daily or practice light prenatal yoga to keep your body fit and reduce stress. Always check with your doctor before trying new activities.
• Stretching
  Gentle stretches can relieve back pain or tension in your pelvic area.

3.Hydration

Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, reduce swelling, and keep your amniotic fluid levels healthy.

With your due date drawing closer, now is the time to start preparing for the arrival of your little one.

Packing Your Hospital Bag

Here’s a checklist of essential items to pack in your hospital bag early to avoid last-minute stress.

For Mom:

• Comfortable clothes (loose-fitting nightwear, slippers).
• Toiletries (toothpaste, body wash, face wipes).
• Maternity pads and nursing bras.

For Baby:

• Newborn clothing, including a hat and socks.
• Blankets and diapers.

For Dad/Partner:

• Snacks, a change of clothes, and phone chargers.

Your Birth Plan

Create a flexible birth plan that outlines:

• Pain relief preferences.
• Labor positions you want to try.
• Preferences for vaginal or cesarean birth.

Check Baby’s Position

By week 33, most babies settle head-down. If your little one hasn’t turned yet, discuss options with your doctor—they may suggest exercises to encourage this movement.

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions during this week.

Q1. Is shortness of breath normal?

Yes, this is common as your growing baby pushes against your diaphragm. Adjust your posture to make breathing easier.

Q2. What if my baby isn’t head-down yet?

While most babies turn head-down by week 33, some take longer. Your doctor may suggest gentle exercises like pelvic tilts or spinning baby techniques.

Q3. Can I still exercise?

Yes, but stick to low-impact activities like walking or stretching. Avoid any exercises with a risk of falling or putting too much strain on your body.

It’s essential to know when to seek medical help. Contact your doctor if you experience:

• Severe or unusual abdominal pain.
• Vaginal bleeding or an unusual discharge.
• Less movement from your baby than usual.
• Signs of preeclampsia, such as severe swelling, persistent headaches, or blurred vision.
• Contractions that become consistent and painful.
  Experiencing any of these symptoms? Contact Dr. Supriya Puranik, the best pregnancy doctor in Pune, for expert care and personalized guidance during your pregnancy.

Pregnancy can be emotional, especially as delivery approaches. Try these tips to stay calm and focused:

• Breathing Exercises
  Deep, slow breathing can reduce anxiety.
• Prenatal Yoga
  It’s a great way to relax and reduce discomfort.
• Lean on Your Support System
  Share your fears or concerns with your partner, friends, or family for reassurance.

The 33rd week of pregnancy is a memorable time filled with anticipation and preparation. Although there are challenges, every symptom, kick, and milestone is a step closer to meeting your baby.

Focus on staying healthy, start preparing for labor, and enjoy this incredible stage of your pregnancy.

Have more questions about your pregnancy? Schedule a prenatal consultation with our experts today to get personalized advice every step of the way!

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• About Author

  Dr. Supriya Puranik

  Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist

Dr. Supriya Puranik, a renowned gynaecologist and infertility expert, leads the IVF & Gynaecology department at Sahyadri Hospitals Momstory in Shivaji Nagar, Pune. She is committed to helping couples overcome infertility challenges.