31 & 32 Weeks

Over the course of last week, I developed a terrible virus/cold.  I had an appointment already scheduled with my OB for last Tuesday so I waited to ask her about what I could do to help relieve some of the congestion, runny nose, cough, sore throat, sneezing and watery eyes.  My doctor told me that she just got over what I have and said a mean virus is going around so I basically have to wait it out, although I can treat the symptoms.  Thankfully, with the help of Benadryl and going to bed at 7 PM both last Tuesday and Wednesday nights, I feel much better, although not 100%.  I still have some congestion, but it's manageable.  The crazy weather we've experienced this winter (or lack thereof) I believe is to blame.  I just hope I can overcome this hurdle and be well for Tyler's debut since I can't take much medication to combat the cold.  Overall, I feel fortunate to have avoided most sicknesses this winter especially since my immune system is being hogged by the baby.  I must be doing something right!

31 & 32  Weeks - Third Trimester 

Size: 16.7 inches long and weighs over 3.75 pounds- the size of a large jicama

 

Development: He can turn his head from side to side and he is beginning to put some meat on his tiny little bones.  He is also heading into a growth spurt so he's ready to live outside the womb.  At week 32, he is beginning to take up a lot of space inside my uterus since I'm on track to gain about a pound per week, with almost half of that weight going directly to the baby.  He is supposed to gain a third to half his birth weight within the next seven weeks.  His fingernails, toenails and real hair or peach fuzz has grown and is visible.  His skin is also becoming soft and smooth as his skin fills with fat in preparation for birth. 

How far along: 31/32 weeks (a little over 7.5 months)

Total weight gain: 25 pounds during Week 31 and 26 pounds at the end of Week 32

Sleep: Some good nights, some bad nights. The bladder issues are really annoying!

Movement: The movement is more intense and I love it.  He moves around primarily in the morning and night at bedtime.  When I put my hand on my belly, he responds just about every time.  I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing...is he telling me to leave him alone?! We haven't been counting movement or kicks yet, but that will come after my next doctor's appointment next week. 

Gender: Boy

Belly Button in or out: In, but I have a feeling not for much longer!  It is close to the edge and looks bruised.  I guess that is normal?  I need to ask my doctor next week. 

What I miss: Wearing normal clothes, heartburn being gone and eating cold deli sandwiches from sandwich shops

What I am looking forward to: Counting his kicks and moving into our new house so we can get the nursery together.  I had a doctor's appointment last week and she confirmed that we both are healthy.  My blood pressure and vitals are normal and his heart beat has remained steady at 135 BPM.  I get tears in my eyes each time I hear his strong, fast beating heart.  It's just confirmation that there really is a healthy baby inside my growing belly.  Such a wonderful feeling!

 

My first baby shower is on Sunday and I am really looking forward to that.  I have a shower every weekend in March - I am a lucky girl.