WeMoms
9 Apr 2024

Your body at 33 weeks of pregnancy

Pregnancy
Pregnancy week by week
Your Body at 33 Weeks
As you approach the homestretch of your pregnancy journey, you may encounter a mix of physical discomforts and unexpected changes. 

Let's delve into what to expect at 33 weeks and how to manage these symptoms with resilience and humor.
Juliette
Midwife for 8+ years
Symptoms of the week
Itchy Belly

Urinary leakage

Pubic pain

Urinary leakage: Up to 60% of pregnant women experience varying levels of urinary leakage due to pressure on the bladder and weakened pelvic floor muscles.

Others

Constipation: Hormonal changes and pressure from your growing baby can lead to digestive sluggishness and discomfort.

Blurred Vision: Hormonal fluctuations and fluid retention may cause temporary changes in vision, requiring adjustments such as glasses or frequent breaks.

Hair Growth Surprises: Increased androgen production during pregnancy can result in faster-growing hair in unexpected areas, a quirky side effect of the miraculous journey of motherhood.


Your body is getting ready for labor. Trust in the natural process.
International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Is it normal?
Constipation Relief: Stay hydrated, consume fiber-rich foods, and consider natural stool softeners to alleviate discomfort. Consult your doctor for safe options if needed.

Vision Changes: While temporary, blurred vision can be managed with frequent breaks, hydration, and eye care. Inform your doctor to ensure comprehensive evaluation and care.

Hair Growth: Embrace the unexpected growth as a natural part of pregnancy, caused by hormonal shifts. Not all women experience this symptom, but it's entirely normal.

Incontinence Management: Practice Kegel exercises, maintain hydration, use pads, and establish a restroom routine to manage urinary leakage. Remember, it typically improves post-delivery.
Top Asked Questions
Top 5 questions answered
What is a doula, and should I consider hiring one?

A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional and physical support during labor and delivery. Hiring a doula is optional, but can be helpful.

What is an induction, and when is it necessary?

An induction is when labor is started artificially. It's necessary if there are concerns about the health of the mother or baby.

What is a forceps delivery, and when is it necessary?

A forceps delivery is when the baby is delivered using forceps. It's necessary if the baby is not descending properly or if there are concerns about the baby's health.

What is a vacuum-assisted delivery, and when is it necessary?

A vacuum-assisted delivery is when the baby is delivered using a vacuum. It's necessary if the baby is not descending properly or if there are concerns about the baby's health.

What is postpartum depression, and how can it be treated?

Postpartum depression is a type of depression that occurs after childbirth. It can be treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Taking care of yourself
Hydration and Fiber: Drink plenty of water and include fiber-rich foods to combat constipation and promote digestive health.

Light Exercise: Engage in gentle activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal dance to stimulate bowel movements and support overall well-being.

Pelvic Floor Exercises: Incorporate Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles and manage urinary leakage with confidence.

Communication: Openly discuss symptoms and concerns with your healthcare provider to explore personalized solutions and ensure optimal care.
Research potential childbirth classes or resources for you and your partner
Prepare for potential postpartum recovery and self-care
Invest in comfortable and supportive maternity clothing for work or exercise
Discuss potential pain relief options with your healthcare provider
Monitor your baby's movements and report any changes or concerns to your healthcare provider
Teaser for next week
Prepare for potential headaches, varicose veins, and "pregnancy brain" in the coming weeks. 

Stay tuned for practical tips on managing these symptoms and navigating the final stages of pregnancy with confidence and humor.
View Sources
">
All I need to know
Labor Onset and Early Signs
1 min read
Practice Breathing Movements
2 min read
K
Khaliyah
12 Jan 2024

33w 2d i had my last growth scan today and baby was 4lb 10oz. Any guesses on birth weight? I’m scared of having a big baby 😩

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
2 comments
T
Tay
I'm 30 weeks 3 days, and my baby is 3lbs 13oz, and the doctor guess was I'll have a 7lb baby. He said babies gain a pound in a half; within a month, maybe a little more.
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
A
Angela
They kept telling me that my baby was only 6lbs he ended up coming out at 8lbs
27 Mar 2024

Answer

K
Kristin Friedel
21 Sep 2023

Got to see this little handsome little man. Doctors say he's doing good. He's on the big side. I'm 33w and 4d he already is weighing over 6 pounds. Scared to death to know how weight at birth

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
4 comments
L
Lotuz
I was 37 weeks and 9lb 9oz he’s like 12 lbs now
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
C
Charletta
He’s so handsome
27 Mar 2024

Answer

D
DueOct23
29 Aug 2023

Over the past two weeks I have noticed pressure when sitting down on the toilet. No UTI or anything related. Anyone else experienced this or know what caused it ? I’m 33w 3 d

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
4 comments
D
DueOct23
Do you know what causes the pressure ?
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
R
Ranicia
nope but I'm about to look it up
27 Mar 2024

Answer

B
Brittany
3 Aug 2023

33w and 4-5cm dilated. How long was anyone else at a 4-5 and stayed there til labor?

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
6 comments
K
Kerry
Usually at 4/5 cm dilated the hospital would keep me.
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
M
Mariama
The hospital usually admits you once you are 4cm dilated
27 Mar 2024

Answer

S
Samantha
2 Aug 2023

35W 5 pounds 13oz why do they keep telling me he's a big baby? I just read a lady at 33W her baby is at 5 pounds?! He does have those chubby cheeks!

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
1 comments
C
Courtney
11 Jul 2023

Ezra Paco Berruecos has made his entrance. Born July 7th 5:03pm weighing at 5lb 1.3oz. Prermie baby born at 33w due to pre-eclampsia.

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
4 comments
𝓣
𝓣𝓲𝓯𝓯𝓪𝓷𝓨 💞
Love the name congratulations 🎉
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
C
Courtney
thank you 😊
27 Mar 2024

Answer

T
Tanaya
20 Nov 2022

Dr estimated baby boy weighed around 5 lbs and 7oz at my 33w ultrasound. Terrified of delivering a big baby 😳🙃

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
4 comments
K
Keri
I totally get it at my 33 weeks appt a few days ago my baby boy was weighing 5lbs 9 oz and i have been feeling so nervous
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
T
Tanaya
Lol. Really not trying to have a massive baby come out naturally 😂
27 Mar 2024

Answer

T
Tammy
21 Sep 2022

Haven’t posted a pic in a while but here we are, 33w and 4d. Little man has taken over my whole body😂🫠

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
6 comments
T
Tammy
Thank you🥰
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
M
Mayra
Nice bump mama and baby looks like is dropping
27 Mar 2024

Answer

A
Ashlee
3 Jul 2022

I’m 33w and I have no energy at all! If I could sleep all day, I would. Is anybody else feeling like this?

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
2 comments
S
Savanah
Absolutely. Its kicking my ass. I'm 29 weeks but with twins so my babies are like a full term baby & I'm dying lol
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
A
Ashlee
I’m so ready for next month
27 Mar 2024

Answer

Related articles

Hot topics