31 weeks pregnant

You at 31 weeks pregnant

Stretch marks are common at this stage, especially if you’ve gained weight quickly.

There’s not a lot you can do about them if you do get them. Unfortunately, they’re permanent, but they’ll fade in colour after your baby is born. Despite what it says in the advertisements, creams and other potions don’t work.

The ligaments around your pelvis are softening and stretching, getting ready for birth. The way you walk might change as your centre of gravity shifts. This is normal. For safety and comfort, wearing high heels isn’t a good idea.

pregnancy illustration, week 31

Birth plans
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 will cut the cord.

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 midwife or doctor who’ll be looking after you, so they understand your preferences and can work with you to achieve them. Now’s also a good time to talk with your midwife or doctor about how you’d like your birth environment to be.

Your baby when you’re 31 weeks pregnant

Here’s what’s going on for your baby:

Your baby is about 27.5 cm from head to bottom, and about 1.5 kg.
Your baby’s eyes are open, and its pupils can respond to light.
Your baby’s brain is developing rapidly, making lots of connections and sending lots of signals.
Loud noises nearby might make your baby startle.