Baby by Week
Week 32

Your week 32 guide

The fetus gains fat and practices breathing while gradually moving toward a birth position.
Trimester

3

Month

8

Weeks left

8

Size at a glance

Comparison
Cabbage
Length
46 cm
Weight
> 4 lb
Measurements are approximate. Healthy babies grow at different rates.

Baby development

Bones are developed but remain flexible enough for birth.
Breathing motions help exercise the lungs.
Position can still change, although many babies begin settling head-down.

Your body

Braxton Hicks contractions may become more noticeable but remain irregular.
Sciatica, bloating, constipation, bladder pressure, and sleep difficulty are common.
Movement can feel strong despite less room in the uterus.

This week's checklist

Tour or review your birth location and arrival instructions.
Make a hospital packing list.
Learn the basics of feeding and newborn care from evidence-based sources.

Call your care team

Contact maternity care immediately for reduced movement, bleeding, leaking fluid, or regular painful contractions.
Seek urgent help for severe headache with vision changes, sudden swelling, chest pain, fainting, or severe abdominal pain.

Medical information, not medical advice

Every pregnancy is different. Use this guide for general education and follow the advice of your own maternity care team. Do not delay urgent care because of something you read here.