Source: bing.comAt 33 weeks, your baby is considered to be in the late preterm stage of development. This means that their body is nearly fully formed and they are just working on gaining weight and building up their immune system before they are ready to make their grand entrance into the world.
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Milestones
By this point, your baby has likely reached a number of important milestones. They are probably around 17 inches long and weigh between 4 and 5 pounds. They are also able to blink their eyes and even suck their thumb! Your little one is also working on developing their lungs so that they are strong enough to breathe on their own once they are born.
Sensory Development
At 33 weeks, your baby’s senses are also becoming more refined. They can hear, see, and even smell! In fact, studies have shown that babies at this stage of development are able to recognize their mother’s voice and may even be soothed by familiar sounds.
Movement
As your baby grows and gains weight, you may start to feel some discomfort as they move around in your womb. At 33 weeks, your baby is likely quite active, and you may notice them kicking and squirming more than ever before!
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Source: bing.comWhat You Can Do to Support Your Baby’s Development
While your baby is doing most of the work at this stage of development, there are still things you can do to support their growth and wellbeing. Here are a few tips:
- Eat a nutritious diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Take prenatal vitamins as recommended by your healthcare provider
- Get plenty of rest and avoid overexerting yourself
- Attend all of your prenatal appointments and follow your healthcare provider’s advice
FAQs
Is it normal to feel uncomfortable at 33 weeks?
Yes, it is normal to feel some discomfort as your baby grows and moves around in your womb. However, if you are experiencing severe pain or other symptoms, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I don’t feel my baby moving as much as usual?
If you are concerned about your baby’s movements, try drinking something cold or sweet and lying on your side. If you still don’t feel any movement, contact your healthcare provider right away.
When should I start packing my hospital bag?
It’s a good idea to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go by 36 weeks, just in case your baby decides to make an early appearance!
What can I do to prepare for labor and delivery?
Talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you have about labor and delivery. You can also take childbirth education classes, practice relaxation techniques, and create a birth plan to help you feel more prepared and confident.
What if my baby is born prematurely?
If your baby is born prematurely, they may need to spend some time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to receive specialized care. Your healthcare team will work closely with you to provide support and information throughout your baby’s stay in the NICU.