Pregnancy week 32
Growing rapidly, at pregnancy week 32, the baby is about 19 inches in length and weighs nearly 4 pounds. By pregnancy week 32, the volume of blood flowing through a woman’s body is at least 40 times more than what she would normally contain. This increased in volume is very good for the little one growing in the womb, but can cause discomfort for the mother. Back pain and pain throughout the buttocks are not uncommon complaints throughout pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. Also, gaining about 1 pound per week can leave little energy for exercise and it is crucial that a woman not exceed herself. Although huffing and puffing does not prevent oxygen from reaching the baby in the womb, who is being thoroughly nourished and cared for by the placenta, it can increase the risk of falling. Take pains to be very careful from this point on. Also, drinking large amounts of water and eating fibrous foods can help prevent constipation and hemorrhoids during this period. Hips and ligaments begin loosening up and, therefore, expanding during this time.
Also at pregnancy week 32, considerations on delivery methods should be weighed and decided upon. Although some women decide to have a vaginal birth, complications during labor can leave the physician and mother opting for a cesarean. Some reasons for a voluntary cesarean delivery include an active herpes infection, multiples, the cervix being enclosed by the placenta, and a pelvic fracture or other barrier to the birth canal. Sometimes, however, cesareans are not planned. Emergencies which necessitate a cesarean include situations where labor is not progressing because of inadequate contractions, pelvis, or large baby size. Another situation which might warrant a cesarean is that the rapid fluctuation of the baby’s heart rate through contractions, which can indicate that the baby is not enduring labor well. This is usually caused by a pinching of the umbilical cord. Another way the umbilical cord can become pinched is if it declines into the vagina. Also, a breech baby, where the baby seems to be coming out feet first, and bleeding from the vagina are emergency reasons to deliver via cesarean.
Current guidance (today's medical sources): Around week thirty-two many babies settle into a head-down position, though some change position later. Fingernails reach the fingertips and fat continues to build. As the uterus rises, breathlessness and pelvic pressure are common. A provider monitors the baby's position and growth at visits.
Contact your healthcare provider promptly about heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, a high fever, severe or sudden headache, vision changes, or fainting. Seek urgent care if you are worried — these can be signs that need medical attention.
Sources: NHS — 32 weeks pregnant; Mayo Clinic — Fetal development: The 3rd trimester; ACOG — If Your Baby Is Breech. Informational only. See our sources & medical-review policy.
Frequently asked questions
How many months is 32 weeks pregnant?
Week 32 falls in the third trimester. Pregnancy is usually counted in weeks (about 40 in total) rather than months, because weeks are more precise.
What is happening to the baby at 32 weeks?
The baby often settles into a head-down position; fingernails reach the fingertips.
What symptoms are common at week 32?
Shortness of breath and pelvic pressure are common as the baby grows. Symptoms vary a lot from person to person; discuss anything that worries you with your healthcare provider.
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See the week-by-week guide →Informational only — not medical advice. Pregnancy Week to Week is a general educational reference. It is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is different: always consult your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare provider about your own pregnancy, and never disregard or delay professional advice because of something you read here. In an emergency, contact your maternity unit or local emergency number immediately.