You at 31 weeks pregnant: stretch marks and other symptoms

Stretch marks

Stretch marks are common at this stage, especially if you’ve gained weight quickly. There's not much you can do about stretch marks, despite what the advertisements for creams and other potions say. Stretch marks are permanent, but they’ll fade in colour after your baby is born.

The way you walk

The way you walk might change around now. You might feel like you’re ‘waddling’.

This is normal and happens for a couple of reasons. The ligaments around your pelvis are softening and stretching, getting ready for birth. And your centre of gravity is shifting.

For safety and comfort, it might be time to shelve your favourite high heels.

Your baby at 31 weeks of pregnancy

How big is your baby at 31 weeks?

Your baby is about 27.5 cm from head to bottom and about 1.5 kg.

What’s happening with your baby’s development at 31 weeks?

• Your baby’s eyes are open, and their pupils can respond to light.
• Your baby’s brain is developing rapidly, making a lot of connections and sending a lot of signals.
• Loud noises nearby might make your baby startle.

Things to think about at 31 weeks: your birth plan

If you’re thinking about a birth plan, now might be a good time to do one.

Birth plans can include things like:

• who you’d like to be at the birth
• how you want to manage pain
• who’ll cut the cord
• how you’d like your birth environment to be.

But keep in mind that your baby’s plan might be different from yours. Also, what you need and want might change on the day, so think of the birth plan as a guide and stay flexible.

It’s a good idea to share your birth plan with the doctor or midwife who’ll be looking after you, so they understand your preferences and can work with you to achieve them.