At thirty-three weeks pregnant, both you and your baby are getting bigger. As your baby gains fat and prepares for life outside the womb, you can expect your weight to creep up slightly, too. Your growing uterus might also add some pressure to other organs and body parts, meaning you run for the toilet more than usual.
But what else is happening? How is your baby’s development progressing? What other symptoms can you expect this week?
That is what we are here to tell you! Keep reading to see our complete and in-depth guide on the thirty-third week of pregnancy. We cover your common symptoms, what an ultrasound shows, and more.
What’s Coming Up In The Article?
- What Does It Mean To Be 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- Will You Get A Positive Pregnancy Test At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- Should You Get An Ultrasound At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- Can You Detect A Heartbeat At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Are The Common Symptoms When You Are 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- How Big Is A Baby At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- Is Pregnancy Viable At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Are The Common Miscarriage Symptoms At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Precautions Should I Take To Maintain My Health At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- How Do You Calculate Your Due Date From 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Body Changes Should You Expect At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
- How Can You Prepare For Pregnancy?
Key Points
- Your baby is about the size of a celery
- Your baby’s nervous system and brain are fully developed
- Your baby’s bones are hardening this week, although your baby’s skull will remain soft
- Your baby’s heart rate is still quicker than yours, averaging 110 to 160 beats per minute
- You might experience frequent urination, tiredness, and practice contractions this week
- You might be asked to keep track of how often your baby moves this week to ensure there are no issues
- You might confirm your birthing plan with your midwife and start thinking about your hospital bag this week
What Does It Mean To Be 33 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-three weeks pregnant, your baby has had another growth spurt and is about the size of a pineapple! Your baby’s development is progressing well this week, too, as they open their eyes and practice breathing, ready for life outside your womb. They will spend the next few weeks in your stomach, gaining fat and weight.
You might also gain some weight this week. Your growing uterus might add pressure to your bladder, too, meaning you might be dashing to the toilet more often. You might also feel breathless as your uterus can restrict your lung space. This week, you might also experience some false contractions or pains around your stomach. Your baby might start to move into the head down position, ready for birth, which can be a little uncomfortable for some women.
Don’t worry; this pain and false contractions don’t last forever. Your midwife or doctor can help you with any pains you might experience this week, too. There are just a few more weeks until your baby arrives; you are almost there!
Will You Get A Positive Pregnancy Test At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You might not get a positive pregnancy test at thirty-three weeks pregnant. Pregnancy tests measure the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels in your blood or urine, depending on the test you take. During the first few months of pregnancy, the pregnancy hormone, hCG, levels rise dramatically in your body. When a pregnancy test is taken, these high levels are registered, and a positive test result will appear.
However, the levels start to drop after a few months of pregnancy and, at thirty-three weeks, might be too low for a positive pregnancy test result to be produced. An ultrasound scan would be the best way to confirm a pregnancy at this stage if your doctor has not already confirmed it.
Should You Get An Ultrasound At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You might be invited for an ultrasound this week. You will likely have two ultrasounds during your third trimester in Australia, and one might be this week! You can also choose to pay for a private ultrasound or a 4D scan this week, where you will see your baby’s face in incredible detail.
An ultrasound at thirty-three weeks will look at your baby’s muscle tone, their breathing, and the amniotic fluid. Your baby might be measured to ensure they are growing as they should. Baby development is also looked at this week, with your baby’s brain and other organs being checked to ensure they have developed correctly. This is done at earlier ultrasounds, too, but your doctor might recheck them if they have any concerns.
At this ultrasound, you will see your baby with its eyes open, which can be an emotional moment for some parents. It means there isn’t long left before your baby is born.
Are There Any Other Scans Or Tests I Should Consider At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You might be invited for your non-stress test this week. These tests are commonly called cardiotocography or CTGs in Australia and occur in the last few weeks of pregnancy. A monitor is attached to your belly, which uses sensors to pick up your baby’s heartbeat. The monitor will stay in place for twenty to thirty minutes, usually to record your baby’s heart rate and compare it to any contractions you might be having. Women who are not experiencing any contractions yet might need to wait a few more weeks for this test.
You might also be invited for a glucose screening test for gestational diabetes. These can happen several times in your third trimester, especially if you are considered a high risk for gestational diabetes. You might also have blood or urine tests to check for anemia or infections.
Can You Detect A Heartbeat At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You can detect a heartbeat at thirty-three weeks pregnant. You can hear your baby’s heartbeat this week at an ultrasound appointment or an appointment with your midwife. Your midwife will use a stethoscope or a Doppler machine on your stomach to listen to your baby’s heartbeat.
You can also purchase a Doppler machine or stethoscope to listen to your baby’s heartbeat at home. It can take a few minutes to get the position right with these, especially if your baby is wriggling, so don’t panic if you don’t hear their heartbeat right away.
Your baby’s heart will still be beating fast, averaging between 110 and 160 beats per minute.
Is Pregnancy Viable At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
YA pregnancy is viable at thirty-three weeks. A pregnancy is considered viable if your baby can survive outside of the womb at this time. At thirty-three weeks, your baby’s brain and nervous system are fully developed, giving them a good chance of survival. They will likely need to spend some time at a specialised neonatal unit while their lungs finish developing to ensure there are no health complications.
A baby born at thirty-three weeks will still be very small, but their survival rates are good. The University of Utah found that babies born after thirty-two weeks have a survival rate of 95% and a low chance of any long-term health problems. While it can be a scary time if your baby is born premature, there is plenty of support at hand to get you and your family through the coming weeks.
What Are The Common Pregnancy Symptoms At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-three weeks pregnant, the common pregnancy symptoms include Braxton Hicks contractions, trouble sleeping, and feeling like something is weighing down on your pelvis. This heavy feeling is a sign your baby is in the head down position for birth.
You might also feel tired and uncomfortable as your belly continues to grow. The end is in sight now but speak to your midwife or doctor to see if they can relieve any of your discomforts.
These symptoms will vary in severity from woman to woman and can change daily. Don’t be alarmed if you wake up with a new set of symptoms than the day before! Remember to reach out for support if you are concerned about your symptoms.
Is There Any Change To HCG Levels At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Your hCG levels continue to fall this week, averaging between 940 and 60,000 u/L.
Should I Expect Any Cramping At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Cramping can happen this week. You might experience Braxton hicks contractions, which are false labour contractions. You might also suffer from round ligament pains on the side of your stomach or leg cramps this week.
Speak to your doctor or midwife if the cramping becomes quite painful or if you notice any bleeding.
Will I Experience Morning Sickness At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Morning sickness usually happens during the first few months of pregnancy, but some women experience morning sickness and nausea at thirty-three weeks pregnant.
Will My Breasts Feel Tender At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Your breasts might feel tender or sore this week. They might also feel full, ache, or leak. Leaking breasts are common as your breast milk comes in. You can wear breast pads to keep you dry and stain-free when this happens.
Will I Have Food Cravings At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Food cravings can happen throughout pregnancy, including week thirty-three. You might crave unusual combinations of foods or foods that you previously did not like.
Will I Pass Urine More Frequently At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You might pass urine more frequently at thirty-three weeks pregnant. As your baby drops into the head down position, ready for delivery, it can add pressure to your bladder, causing you to need to urinate more often.
Continue to drink plenty of fluids, as you need to remain hydrated, despite how frustrating needing to pee all the time is!
Will I Feel Tiredness Or Fatigue At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Tiredness or fatigue is common at thirty-three weeks pregnant. Not only might you be struggling to sleep, but you are carrying extra weight that can impact your body.
Add a pregnancy pillow to your bed to relieve your sore muscles and help you find a comfortable sleeping position.
Will I Feel Bloated At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You might feel bloated at thirty-three weeks pregnant. Avoiding eating late at night and trying to eat smaller meals throughout the day can help with bloat during pregnancy.
Will I Get A Headache At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Headaches are common throughout your pregnancy, including week thirty-three. Typically, women who suffer from headaches before pregnancy will experience more headaches than others during pregnancy.
Will I Experience A Metallic Taste In My Mouth At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
A metallic taste in your mouth is more common in the first few months of pregnancy, but you can also experience it at thirty-three weeks pregnant.
Will I Have A Heightened Sense Of Smell At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
A heightened sense of smell is a common symptom in the first trimester of pregnancy, but you can also experience it at thirty-three weeks pregnant.
Can You Experience Shortness Of Breath At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Shortness of breath or feeling breathless can happen at thirty-three weeks pregnant. Your growing baby can restrict your lung space, making it harder for you to breathe, especially when walking upstairs or lying down. Take your time and speak to your doctor if you are concerned.
Is It Normal To Get Diarrhea At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Diarrhea is normal during pregnancy, although it could be a sign of preterm labour this week! Speak to your doctor or midwife if you experience any other labour symptoms.
You should also contact them if your diarrhea does not improve after forty-eight hours.
Can You Get Vaginal Discharge At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Vaginal discharge can happen throughout your pregnancy, including at thirty-three weeks pregnant. Any changes to your discharge should be reported to your midwife or doctor. Your discharge should be milky or white with little to no odour.
Will I Experience Lower Back Pain At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Lower back pain or backache is common this week. Your body is carrying more weight than usual, adding pressure to your ligaments and joints, which can cause lower back pain.
Will I Experience Mood Swings At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Mood swings usually happen during the first few months of pregnancy, but you can experience them at thirty-three weeks pregnant. Changing hormone levels are usually to blame for mood swings.
Is Spotting Normal At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Spotting can happen at thirty-three weeks pregnant and should be reported to your doctor or midwife immediately. While it could be harmless, it could also be a sign of trouble; ensure you get it checked by a doctor immediately.
What Other Symptoms Are Common When 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Other common pregnancy symptoms at thirty-three weeks include the following:
- Shinier and thicker hair
- Spotty or oily skin
- Brown patches or darkened skin on your face
- Vaginal infections
- Urine infections
- Swollen feet and hands
- Dizziness
- Raised basal temperature (feeling hot)
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- Piles
- Bleeding and swollen gums
- Stretch marks
How Big Is A Baby At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Your baby is about the size of a pineapple this week! They will have grown again and measure around 43.7cm from head to heel. They have been busy developing this week, too! Your baby now has a fully developed brain and nervous system, meaning it is almost time for them to join the world.
Your baby’s bones are also hardening up. Your baby’s skull bones do not harden yet and will stay soft and separated until 12 to 18 months old. A softer skill provides some flexibility to help with your baby’s journey down the birth canal. Your baby is also gaining weight this week, with your baby’s skin looking less wrinkled as fat forms under it. These are all signs your baby’s development is progressing correctly. It won’t be long until they are here now!
Can You Feel The Baby At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
Yes, you can feel your baby at thirty-three weeks pregnant. Your baby’s movements will feel stronger again this week as their bones harden. You should tell the difference between punches, kicks, and the odd elbow in your ribs.
Your baby can hear outside of the womb now and can react to noise. Use this as an opportunity for you and your partner to talk to your baby and strengthen your bond.
Your doctor will ask you to monitor your baby’s movements for your pregnancy. Any changes in your baby’s movements, like a sudden decrease in your baby’s movements, should be reported to your doctor or midwife straight away. You will likely be sent to your doctor or hospital to have a scan to ensure there are no issues.
What Are The Common Symptoms Of Miscarriage At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
TA miscarriage at thirty-three weeks is classed as a stillbirth. The common symptoms include your baby’s movements decreasing or stopping, bleeding, abdominal pains or contractions, and other pregnancy symptoms stopping. For some women, their waters might break, and they might deliver the bay quickly. Others might not have any symptoms and not know they have miscarried their baby.
Should you notice any change in your baby’s movements, especially bleeding or any other symptoms, speak to your doctor immediately.
At this stage in your pregnancy, you will have to deliver your baby. This can be done in the hospital, and you might be offered medication to induce labour and speed up the process. Your doctor and midwife will be on hand to offer any support that you need and can help set up long-term support for you and your family, too.
What Are The Chances Of Miscarriage At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
The chances of a stillbirth at this stage in a healthy and uncomplicated pregnancy are very low. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare found that for every 1,00 births in 2020, 2.5 were stillbirths. This gives you a low chance of a stillbirth happening, so try not to worry about this.
Of course, some factors do increase your chances of a stillbirth. These include weight, pregnancy complications, and any health conditions you might have. Your doctor or midwife can explain these factors and how they might apply to you if you have any concerns.
What Precautions Should I Take To Maintain My Health At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
The following precautions should be taken to maintain your health during your third trimester.
Take Prenatal Vitamins
Continue taking your prenatal vitamins at thirty-three weeks pregnant. Your prenatal vitamins will provide you and your baby with the nutrients you need. You can take a pregnancy multivitamin or separate vitamins if you prefer. Your doctor can advise you on what might be best for you.
You should aim for a prenatal vitamin with high levels of iron and Vitamin D, especially if you are pregnant in the winter.
Stay Hydrated
Try to drink plenty of water this week, too. Staying hydrated is an important part of maintaining your health during pregnancy. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) found that drinking water helps form the amniotic fluid around your baby, aids digestion, and circulates nutrients around your body. They recommend drinking eight to twelve cups of water daily during pregnancy.
Eat A Healthy And Balanced Diet
You should also eat a healthy and balanced diet at thirty-three weeks pregnant. While you might gain weight this week, as your baby grows, you don’t need to overconsume. Your doctor might recommend that you add 200 calories to your diet, but this varies depending on your current weight.
Your diet should be balanced and varied with lean protein, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables, and carbohydrates. You should also consume fibre-rich foods if you are struggling with constipation.
Stop Smoking
Smoking is incredibly harmful to your baby and should be stopped as soon as you find out you are pregnant. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)found that smoking during pregnancy doubles your chance of abnormal bleeding during pregnancy and birth and increases your baby’s risk of congenital disabilities. It also increases your baby’s risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) when they are born.
Speak to your doctor if you need help to quit smoking during pregnancy.
Are There Any Foods I Should Avoid At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-three weeks pregnant, the following foods should be avoided.
- Raw juices and smoothies
- Highly processed foods
- Soft cheeses
- Unpasteurised dairy and dairy products
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables
- Raw sprouts
- Organ meat
- Raw or undercooked eggs
- Deli or processed meat
- Raw or undercooked meat
- Raw or undercooked fish
- Seafood with high mercury content
Are There Any Drinks I Should Avoid At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You should avoid all alcoholic drinks at thirty-three weeks pregnant. Drinking alcohol while pregnant can increase your risk of a stillbirth or a variety of behavioural, physical, intellectual, and emotional disabilities known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs). The CDC found there is no safe alcohol limit to consume during pregnancy as even a small amount can increase your chances of FASDs. Speak to your doctor if you need help to stop drinking alcohol.
You should also reduce your caffeine intake at thirty-three weeks pregnant. The Royal College of Midwives found that consuming more than 350mg of caffeine a day during pregnancy can increase your risk of stillbirth, low birth weight, or preterm labour. They recommend limiting your caffeine intake to 200mg a day during pregnancy.
Are There Any Supplements I Should Avoid At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You should avoid any supplements that your doctor has not recommended you take. Most supplement labels state they are unsuitable for pregnant women as they could harm your baby. Avoid all of these and consult your doctor before taking any supplements while pregnant.
Can I Exercise While 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You can exercise at thirty-three weeks pregnant. You should focus on low-impact exercises like walking or swimming instead of high-impact or contact sports.
Yoga is also a good exercise, but make sure that you follow a pregnancy-friendly workout or speak to your instructor beforehand to ensure the routine is adjusted for you.
As your baby grows, you might find that your energy levels drop, and you find it harder to complete your exercises. Don’t worry, this is normal. Don’t push yourself too far or exhaust yourself.
Is It Safe To Travel When 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You can travel at thirty-three weeks pregnant, but there are some considerations to make. Women with multiple pregnancies are not advised to fly any longer, whereas those with one baby are safe to fly. You must provide your airline with a fit to fly letter from your doctor.
The letter should include your due date, any complications, and how many babies you are carrying. Check with your airline before travelling to see if there is any other information required.
Speak to your doctor before travelling if you have high blood pressure, deep vein thrombosis, or any pregnancy complications. You should check before travelling to another country if you need any vaccinations or advisories for pregnant women.
Are There Any Acitivites I Should Avoid At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
The following activities should be avoided at thirty-three weeks pregnant.
- Roller coasters, bumper cars, and water slides
- Motorcycles and four-wheelers
- Contact sports
- Diving
- Downhill skiing
- Gymnastics
- Hot Yoga
- Hot pilates
- Horseriding
- Hot tubs
- Sauna
- Scuba diving
- Skydiving
- Snowboarding
- Waterskiing
- Cleaning cat litter
- Horseriding
- Hot tubs
- Sauna
- Scuba diving
- Skydiving
- Snowboarding
- Waterskiing
- Cleaning cat litter
Is It Safe To Have Sex When 33 Weeks Pregnant?
It is considered safe to have sex at thirty-three weeks pregnant unless you are told otherwise by your doctor or midwife.
How Should I Sleep At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You might find it hard to sleep at thirty-three weeks pregnant. Your growing belly and kicks from your baby can keep you awake at night. Sleeping with a pillow between your legs or a pregnancy pillow can help you get comfortable at night.
What Position Is It Safe To Sleep In When 33 Weeks Pregnant?
You should sleep on your side at thirty-three weeks pregnant as this is considered the safest sleeping position. Sleeping on your side will not add any pressure to your pregnant belly.
How Do You Calculate Your Due Date From 33 Weeks Pregnant?
The best way to calculate your due date at thirty-three weeks pregnant is to use the date of your last menstrual period. This is the LMP method and is the most common way to calculate a due date. Take the first day of your last period and count forward forty weeks or 280 days to have your estimated due date.
You will also have a due date provided by your doctor or midwife. This due date is given during the first ultrasound, where your baby is measured, and its development is used to determine how far into your pregnancy you are.
It’s worth noting that these due dates are simply estimates. It is common for women to give birth before or after their due date, so don’t panic if your due date passes and your baby does not arrive.
What Body Changes Should You Expect At 33 Weeks Pregnant?
The biggest body change this week is weight gain. As your baby gains weight and continues to pee in your amniotic fluid, you can expect the numbers on the scale to creep up slightly.
You can also expect Braxton Hicks contractions or practice contractions. Your womb is preparing for birth, and these contractions are just a sign your body is getting ready to deliver your baby. The contractions can feel like your bump tightens for twenty to thirty seconds before relaxing.
Any pain or regular contractions should be reported to your midwife or doctor immediately.
What Is Your Body Doing During This Process?
Your body is preparing for labour with practice contractions. These can happen this week or over the next few weeks, so don’t be alarmed when you feel the tightening across your bump.
Your body continues to pump an increased blood flow, providing blood to you and your baby. Doing so means your blood flow is slower than usual, so you might feel lightheaded or dizzy if you stand up too quickly. Take your time, especially when walking upstairs; you don’t want to do this too quickly and feel dizzy or fall.
How Can You Prepare For Pregnancy?
The following tips will help you prepare for the remainder of your pregnancy and the next chapter in your life.
Pack Your Hospital Bag
Some might think it is too soon, but it is better to be prepared, so why not pack your hospital bag this week? This bag will accompany you to the hospital when you deliver your baby. It will need your essential items like pyjamas, toiletries, and pads, along with items for your baby to come home in, like fresh clothes and nappies.
Some women choose to add extras like an iPad or tablet and some snacks in case they have long labour or wait in the hospital. Your midwife might advise you on what to bring in your hospital bag, or you can check out some videos online to see what other mothers took with them.
This video by Pocket Trailblazer is one of our favourites.
Confirm Your Birth Plan
Your midwife might ask you to confirm your birth plan this week or in the next few weeks. You might still be considering what you want, so now is the time to sit down and decide. You can do this with your midwife, partner, friends, or family. Consider the following questions to help you determine what you would like to happen when you give birth:
- Do you want a natural birth?
- Do you want a home birth?
- Do you want a water birth?
- Do you want any pain relief? What pain relief?
- Do you want medical intervention?
- Do you want a birthing partner? Who do you want?
Remember that a birthing plan is just that, a plan. Things can change quickly when you are in labour, and sometimes, the plan cannot be followed to ensure the safety of you and your baby. Your doctor or midwife will explain this to you and can run through any complications that could change your birth plan over the next few weeks.
Attend Birthing Classes
You can also attend birthing classes in your local area this week. These are a good way to prepare for your birth, where you might gain information and support about practice contractions and breathing techniques that could be helpful. Some women choose to attend hypnobirthing classes, too, which are designed to help pregnant women achieve a pain-free birth.
Attending these classes in your local area is also an excellent way to meet other expecting mothers. These women could become friends who could support you throughout your pregnancy and life as a new mother. Pregnancy and motherhood can be a lonely time for some women, so why not explore every opportunity to meet new friends?
Gather Your Baby’s Items
This is also an excellent time to gather more time for your baby. You might want to pick up your baby’s pram this week or their car seat. You. can usually find these items on sale, or you can purchase them second-hand, but be sure to do thorough research beforehand. These items, in particular, need to be safe for your baby; don’t buy anything that you don’t completely trust. You might also want to install the car seat this week. You can also have this professionally done or wait a few more weeks if you wish.
You can also start gathering clothing, toiletries, or anything else you might need for your baby this week. Remember, there is no need to go overboard. Your baby will grow quickly; you don’t need hundreds of baby grows in one size.
Talk About Any Worries
It is normal for moms to be to worry or be scared by the prospect of giving birth and what comes after. Your life is about to undergo a huge change; mixed emotions or feeling scared is normal; try not to feel guilty about these feelings. Instead, talk about them. Speak to your partner, friends, or family about your feelings. We bet any other mothers you know will say they had the same feelings, too.
Talking about how you feel or writing it down can take some stress off your shoulders and put some of your worries to bed. You can also speak to your healthcare provider for reassurance and support if needed.
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy week thirty-three brings you another week closer to meeting your baby! While the prospect of giving birth can be scary for some women, there is plenty of support available to you. Take this week to prepare for your new arrival, speak about any worries, and take care of your body.
There are a few weeks to go now before your baby arrives. Remember to return next week to see what is happening in the next week of your final trimester.