During this last 3 months of pregnancy, you may be worried or anxious about labour and wish for the time before the birth to go quickly. You will probably gain about 5 kilograms during this stage. Much of this weight will be from your baby, but you will also gain extra weight from the amniotic fluid, the placenta, your breasts, blood and your uterus. Try to relax and get all the rest you can – your baby’s arrival is not far away.

Week 29-33

Your baby is now about one third of its birth size. Pregnancy hormones have been softening your ligaments. The combination of this and your baby’s increasing weight can cause problems with backache. You may start to feel breathless at times because the baby is pushing up against your lungs, particularly when you are sitting. This feeling is normal and does not mean that you or your baby is getting less oxygen.

Your baby’s eyes are learning how to focus. Your baby’s lungs are maturing, but they still need to develop surfactant, a substance that allows your baby to breathe after it is born. Even if you don’t notice regular Braxton Hicks contractions, your baby is becoming very aware of them.