At 30 weeks pregnant, you'll be into your third trimester! You're getting closer and closer to your delivery date, so you're sure to be excited. You're likely wondering what's going on with you and with your baby right now, so you're in the right place. We've got all the info here you need about being 30 weeks pregnant, so read on!
Key Points
- You may experience indigestion and heartburn at this stage. If this issue becomes severe or is drastically affecting your quality of life, speak to your doctor.
- It's important that you maintain a healthy diet and an appropriate exercise regimen at this time.
- Your baby's eyelids will now open and close, and their bone marrow is responsible for making their red blood cells.
Body Changes at 30 Weeks Pregnant
At 30 weeks pregnant, you may be experiencing constipation. Constipation is a common complaint of pregnancy. The pregnancy hormones that you have slow the digestive process considerably. Exercising regularly and eating foods high in fiber is important and will help keep you regular.
At this point you probably have stretch marks. Approximately 50 percent of pregnant women will get stretch marks. Stretch marks are streaks that can be pale, dark red, or purple. Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches to accommodate the growth of the belly. These will lighten over time once your uterus returns to its normal size.
You may also be experiencing swelling in your hands, feet, face, and ankles caused by water retention. A good way to keep water from building up is to drink lots of water, which will help flush out your system. To help with the discomfort, you can raise your legs or lie down when you can, preferably on your left side. Also, avoid stockings or elastic-top socks.
However, if swelling appears overnight, you should call your healthcare provider immediately because swelling can be a sign of high blood pressure and preeclampsia.
If you are experiencing frequent indigestion and heartburn, now is the time to pay attention to what you eat. Eat smaller meals, healthy foods, and drink lots of water. Stay away from spicy foods. If it becomes very uncomfortable, talk to your doctor about medications for heartburn or indigestion.
Your Baby's Growth and Development at Week 30
At 30 weeks, your baby weighs about three pounds and measures about 10.8 inches from head to toe. Your baby is continuing to gain weight and layers of fat. From this point on your baby will gain about half a pound a week.
In male babies, the testicles move from near the kidneys through the groin en route to the scrotum. In female babies, the clitoris appears large and exposed because it is not yet covered by the folds of the skin called the labia.
Your baby's head is getting larger, more in proportion with its body. Your baby's eyelids now open and close. The bone marrow is now responsible for making red blood cells.
Things to Do at 30 Weeks Pregnant
At 30 weeks pregnant, there are some things you'll want to be doing to ensure you and your baby remain happy and healthy. If you have any questions or concerns about what you should be doing, consult your doctor.
Start shopping for your baby. Your baby will be arriving anywhere from seven to twelve weeks from now. If you haven't started shopping for their arrival yet, now is the time to do so. You should be getting all the essentials, from clothes to a car seat to diapers. Set a budget, and make a list of everything you need.
Continue maintaining a healthy diet and exercise. A healthy diet will ensure that you and your baby stay as healthy as possible. If necessary, your doctor may put you on vitamins to ensure you and your baby are getting the nutrients you need. Regarding exercise, low-impact and low intensity exercise is all you'll be able to do at this stage. It's important to do some of this type of exercise, however, to keep yourself healthy. Walking is a great way to keep healthy during pregnancy; talk to your doctor first if you want to do anything else.
Continue avoiding alcohol, tobacco, recreational drugs, and caffeine. All of these substances are dangerous to your baby. They can cause severe developmental issues and even death. If you're struggling with the temptation to consume these products while pregnant, know that there is help. Speak with your doctor or with a mental health specialist for more information.
Guard your health. Your immune system is compromised while pregnant. For the safety of you and your baby, you need to be extra cautious about your health. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least thirty seconds. Carry hand sanitizer with you to use after leaving public places or before eating. Avoid any areas that may come with a higher risk of contracting an illness. Do not travel to areas known to have the Zika virus.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Everything you need to know about being 30 weeks pregnant. We hope this article helped you! If you still have any questions or concerns, definitely reach out to a qualified medical professional. Your doctor is your greatest ally at this time, and can provide you with all the information and resources you might need. Feel free to check out some of our other articles on pregnancy, childbirth, and living with a newborn!
The information in this article should not be taken as professional medical or legal advice. Always seek the advice of a doctor for any medical questions or concerns. Always seek the advice of a qualified attorney for any legal questions or concerns. Moms Who Think is not responsible for any outcomes that may arise as a result of actions taken based on information we provide. It is your responsibility to do your own research and to take the appropriate measures to protect your health. It is also your responsibility to do your own research regarding legal matters.