33 weeks pregnant what happens to the baby. What happens in a woman's body

Pain at 33 weeks pregnant

At the 33rd week of pregnancy, pain is associated with a rapid increase in the size of the uterus and with the preparation of the body for childbirth. If there is a malaise, you need to be able to recognize the norm and pathology. Here are the most common sensations characteristic of this period:

  • pain in the sacrum and womb (there is a relaxation of muscle tissue and a divergence of the pelvic bones);
  • pain in the lumbar region and in the legs (a consequence of the heavy load that the enlarged uterus gives);
  • pain in the anus (appear due to frequent constipation and hemorrhoids);
  • pain in the hypochondrium (occur due to sudden movements of the child and quickly pass).

Temperature and cold

You should know that temperatures up to 37 degrees are considered normal for pregnant women, which means that you do not need to bring it down. The danger appears only when the thermometer shows 38 degrees and above. Fever carries the threat of miscarriage, so you need to treat the disease at an early stage, without taking it to extremes.

For colds, the expectant mother can use the following treatment methods:

  • drinking plenty of warm liquids: milk, tea, berry decoctions, water;
  • application folk methods treatment: rinsing the throat and nose with herbal infusions (chamomile, eucalyptus, sage), wiping with cool water, etc .;
  • antipyretic based on paracetamol at high temperature.

In no case should you use mustard plasters or soar your legs. When the first signs of a cold appear, it is necessary to go for a consultation with a therapist.

Allocations at 33 obstetric weeks of pregnancy

A woman should regularly monitor vaginal discharge. Normally, they should be in small quantities, colorless and odorless.

If there is a 33rd week of pregnancy on the calendar, and the expectant mother found the release of a large amount of clear-colored mucus, this can only mean one thing - the mucous plug has come out and labor will begin soon. You need to act calmly: call an ambulance and wait for hospitalization in the maternity hospital. Premature birth does not pose a great danger to the life of the baby. If doctors provide him with proper care, he will survive and be healthy.

intimate life

At the 33rd week of pregnancy, intimate life is not prohibited. Despite the impressive term and voluminous belly of the expectant mother, with mutual desire, the couple can go for intimacy, provided that there is no threat of early childbirth. If a woman has doubts, she should certainly consult with her doctor. There should be no hesitation in this matter. The gynecologist will be able to unequivocally answer whether intimate relationships will harm. If the doctor deems it necessary, he will prescribe sexual rest until childbirth.


  • Monitor blood pressure and edema. If there is an accumulation of fluid in the body, blood pressure jumps, you often feel sick, then go to an appointment with a gynecologist. Ignoring problems can lead to the development of late toxicosis.
  • Prepare things for the hospital and an exchange card. They should always be at hand, because when the birth begins, there will be no time for fees.
  • Find time for walks in the fresh air, it is good for you and the baby. A sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate an already severe condition on later dates pregnancy.
  • At the first signs of a cold, consult a doctor. Every week counts, by the time of birth, the mother should be healthy.
  • Spend more time with your family, especially with the child's father. Heart-to-heart conversations and close communication with the baby will help stabilize an unstable emotional state, relieve stress.

Stick to the right daily routine, include time for rest, exercise and walks. Try to get enough sleep by getting at least 8-9 hours of sleep.


Dear expectant mothers site! The main adviser of a pregnant woman in matters of nutrition should be a gynecologist. Based on the results of the tests, he reveals the lack of certain nutrients in the body of a woman (proteins, carbohydrates, fats, calcium, etc.). Then he gives recommendations on nutrition to make up for the existing deficit.


The mother's daily menu should include vegetables and fruits - sources of vitamins and fiber. They should be consumed fresh or steamed. For the first, you can eat soup cooked in low-fat broth, for the second - cereal porridge, beef, fish. In a minimum amount, you should eat goodies that are so difficult to refuse: bakery products, sausages, as well as smoked, salty, fried, fatty and sweet foods. During pregnancy, you need to forget about alcohol and strong coffee.

And one more important advice- do not overeat. It is a mistake to think that the expectant mother should eat for two. If you follow it, you can soon earn obesity, as well as a whole bunch of diseases of the digestive system.

Physical activity

At 33 weeks pregnant, it is increasingly difficult for a woman to keep herself in good physical shape. Many mothers believe that now is the time to switch to a sedentary or recumbent lifestyle, which is done with joy. However, it should be noted that this approach can play a cruel joke, because without movement it is very difficult to keep the body in good shape and activate the body's defenses. An already weakened immune system can fail.

Responsible mothers take the issue of maintaining health and preparing for childbirth seriously by doing light physical exercises:

  • aerobics in the pool;
  • yoga for pregnant women;
  • breathing exercises;
  • Kegel exercises;
  • walking tours.

The exercise cycle is best done regularly, that is, daily, so that it becomes a habit. Physical activity gives a new charge of energy and strength, allows you to burn calories and cope with many troubles - edema, hypertension, obesity, hemorrhoids.

Required studies and analyzes

The 33rd obstetric week of pregnancy is the period at which both the doctor and the expectant mother herself have a detailed idea of ​​​​how the fetus develops. Monitoring of his condition begins from the moment the mother is registered with the antenatal clinic. The doctor calculates the obstetric period, which is determined not from the moment of conception (isolation of the egg as a result of ovulation, fusion with the spermatozoon and the formation of a blastocyst embryo), but from the first day of the last menstruation.

After that, the gynecologist prescribes regular tests, the most important of which is a triple test for genetic abnormalities in the embryo. Studies on the level of the hormone hCG and free estriol, AFP protein are carried out for a period of 11-13 weeks. If the test does not reveal any abnormalities, then by week 33, the expectant mother should visit the doctor twice a week. The following procedures await her at the reception:

  • interpretation of urine and blood tests;
  • taking a smear in the presence of complaints;
  • measurement of pressure, body weight, volume of the abdomen and the size of the uterus;
  • monitoring the fetal heart rate with a stethoscope.

If the pregnancy proceeds with complications, then the doctor prescribes additional studies and tests, and the frequency of appointments may increase. If there is a threat to the life and health of the child, then the expectant mother can be sent to the hospital.

The closer the onset of childbirth, the more the growing child becomes viable. The main task of a pregnant woman is to carry the baby as long as possible, avoiding premature birth. What can lead to this phenomenon, which often occurs at a period of 33 weeks of pregnancy? This question worries many women. Especially if there are any deviations in the development of the fetus.

Changes that happen to the expectant mother

By this time, a pregnant woman is already getting used to the changes that constantly occur in her body. This period falls on maternity leave when you don’t have to rush to work and you can devote all your free time to yourself and preparing for the upcoming birth. It seems that there is still a lot of time before them, but this may not be the case at all.

Readiness for childbirth is determined not only by how a woman feels, but also by whether the fetus meets the weight standards at 33 weeks of gestation. Most likely, by this time she will have already passed the third screening, which includes the mandatory procedure for undergoing an ultrasound examination. The specialist determines according to the table (it should be within 35-45 cm) and weight (approximately 1700-2000 g). It is necessary to take into account the personal parameters of the parents, if both of them are not tall or large in body weight, then most likely their baby will also have miniature parameters. Therefore, the issue of compliance or deviation from these standards should be approached purely individually. Do not forget that even if there is a lag behind the normal weight of the fetus at the 33rd week of pregnancy, then, most likely, closer to the birthday, he will gain the necessary grams. The main thing is that the expectant mother should remain calm and observe the daily routine, adhere to proper nutrition.

Based on the obtained indicators, you can get an idea only about the approximate weight of the child. The determination of these parameters is necessary in order to have an idea at the time of delivery regarding the probability of the birth of a large fetus, its location, condition amniotic fluid and placenta. This may affect the method of delivery.

As a rule, if a child at 33 weeks of gestation weighs less than the established norm, then this is not at all a reason to panic. In practice, doctors prescribe vitamin therapy, and mothers are advised to walk and rest more.

External changes in a pregnant woman

Without ultrasound, it is impossible to imagine how a child develops inside the mother's womb. Only with the help of this research method you can see with your own eyes what the baby is doing at the moment, how he feels, whether or not there are deviations in the development of internal organs, body parts. But there is one drawback: you cannot resort to this method of observation all the time. Therefore, how the pregnancy proceeds can only be judged by how the belly grows at the 33rd week of pregnancy, how much the woman has gained weight. The processes occurring inside the mother's body are also judged by the results of blood and urine tests, the presence of edema and emerging complaints about well-being.

At this stage of pregnancy, the expectant mother may notice that the growth of the abdomen has slowed down somewhat. This is due to the fact that the peak of its intensive growth occurs when changes in its shape and size become noticeable every week. At 32-33 weeks of pregnancy, the stomach becomes more rounded, in some pregnant women it is more convex, like a ball inside. External outlines acquire smooth contours, and the position of the baby determines what the upcoming birth will be like. This means that if the baby is head down, then the birth will most likely take place naturally, since in the pelvic position (when the baby is head up) it is recommended C-section. But even if for a given period the child has not yet taken the correct position, this does not mean at all that he will not change it during childbirth. And this happens in practice, so you should not worry in advance.

In addition to an increase in the size of the abdomen, changes also occur in the appearance of a pregnant woman. Others may notice that not only the tummy is rounded, but also facial features become softer outwardly. This is due to the active work of hormones that are actively produced by the mother's body. Most women note that their hair has become stronger, nails break less.

The gait also changes, the movements are no longer so fast. In some cases, women note that pinching of the sciatic nerve can occur, and then the gait becomes like a duck. But do not be shy about this, you can reduce the load if you go slowly. The growing tummy makes itself felt more and more, it becomes more and more difficult to lean forward or just sit down. Therefore, it is extremely important that someone close be with the pregnant woman and help, for example, put on shoes or put a pillow under her back during rest.

What does a pregnant woman feel at this time

A visit to the doctor and control of the gestational age occur according to the weeks of gestation of the fetus. Therefore, it happens that the question of how many months at 33 weeks of gestation can lead some to a stupor. In fact, everything is not so difficult, this period is 8 months and 1 week. Any deviations from normal health should alert the expectant mother. The appearance of late signs of toxicosis may lead to the need to go to the hospital for a while. The reason for this measure can also serve as a downward deviation from the norm of the weight of the fetus at 33 weeks of gestation. In order to maintain the general well-being of the mother and stimulate weight gain, the baby is prescribed a vitamin complex in the form of intravenous injections, as well as drugs to normalize blood supply (for example, Curantil).

Training contractions are considered the norm, which can begin from the 33rd week. In order to reduce tone and muscle spasms, it is recommended to use No-Shpa, Papaverine. You can take a warm bath, it helps to direct the shower jet to the lumbar region. If after all the manipulations the cramping attacks have not stopped, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

At this time, anemia may occur due to low hemoglobin, so it is worth including foods rich in iron in the diet. If the duration of sleep is less than eight hours a day, then circles under the eyes cannot be avoided. To prevent this, it is recommended to interrupt your activity even in the afternoon. The optimal position during sleep on the side becomes familiar to most pregnant women. This important point, since the enlarged uterus when lying on the back can lead to compression of the vena cava. A woman may feel that the child begins to move actively, which in this case is a sign of insufficient oxygen supply.

It is worth paying attention to the discharge, if they have streaks with blood, a lot of mucus, then, most likely, the mucous plug begins to move away. This symptom is not typical for this time, so it is recommended to consult a doctor.

How does the baby feel?

For the active movement of the baby inside the placenta, there is less and less free space. Mom may notice that fetal movements at 33 weeks of gestation become more coordinated. At this stage internal organs the child continues to develop. In particular, subcutaneous adipose tissue is formed, a supply of iron is formed in the liver, the endocrine system completes the stages of development, thickening of the walls of blood vessels occurs, and the heart increases in size. The child is actively interested in what is happening outside. It can react to loud sound, bright light.

One of important indicators health - the formation of one's own immunity. While the baby is in the womb, the mother's body protects him, but as soon as he is born, he will need his own protective resource that will protect him from harmful microorganisms.

If at the 33rd week of pregnancy the norm of fetal weight is established by ultrasound, then the degree of maturity of the lungs is determined in this study. This indicator is important because in the case of an emergency development of labor, it determines the survival of the fetus. It should be noted that, along with data on the development of the lungs, liver echogenicity indicators are compared. Normally, they should coincide and be equally developed.

Determination of fetal development parameters by ultrasound

An ultrasound examination is necessary not only to determine height and weight, but also to understand what is happening to the baby at 33 weeks of gestation. Visually on the screen all sizes are determined from the head to the legs. These parameters allow you to determine the compliance of fetal development with the established gestational age. In particular, the following values ​​​​are measured (norms will be indicated in brackets):

  • Head circumference (289-333 mm) and abdomen (267-325 mm).
  • Biparietal size (77-91 mm).
  • Fronto-occipital size (98-116 mm).
  • Nasal bone (8.9-13.9 mm).
  • Coccyx-parietal size (at 33 weeks of gestation, the size of the fetus is about 30 cm).
  • The determination of the length of the bones is subject to measurement: shoulder (53-63 mm), forearm (46-54 mm), thigh (58-68 mm), lower leg (54-62 mm).

It should be borne in mind that with multiple pregnancies, the size and weight of babies may differ from the above norms. Therefore, one should not expect that at 32-33 weeks of pregnancy they will fit the generally accepted standards. As a rule, by the time of birth, the weight of one baby can be no more than 2500 g, and the second one is only 200-300 g heavier than the first.

The rate of fetal weight at 33 weeks of gestation also depends on lifestyle expectant mother, heredity and the presence of pathologies. If polyhydramnios is established, then the child may weigh less than expected. This also confirms the likelihood of developing a congenital disease. It is for this reason that it is important to control the well-being and changes that occur in the child's body throughout the entire period of pregnancy.

Movements and their intensity

The force of the blows becomes more tangible than before. This is due to the fact that the child is gaining muscle mass. The volume of amniotic fluid is somewhat reduced. More and more time the fetus spends on sleep, and a woman can clearly distinguish between his mode of activity, periods of rest. At 33 weeks pregnant, the baby can see its first dreams. This is due to the fact that connections between neurons begin to appear in the fetal brain.

Doctors recommend controlling the intensity of movements, normally there should be at least 10 times in two hours. It is necessary to take into account even the weak movements of the baby. Too frequent and active movements can also indicate a lack of oxygen. Therefore, it is worth regularly ventilating the room in which the pregnant woman is located and being in the fresh air for at least 3-4 hours a day.

Strange tremors, or How to understand that a child is hiccuping

Similar to movements, but more regular and longer in duration - this is all about the first signs of hiccups in a child. It is not to be confused with the usual movements of the child. If it is located correctly in the womb, we are talking about the head presentation of the fetus during pregnancy at 33 weeks, then rhythmic tremors will be felt in the lower abdomen. The movement of the legs will be felt in the ribs, in the upper abdomen. With the pelvic position of the fetus, everything will be exactly the opposite. Accordingly, with a transverse arrangement, the head will be on the side, from where the mother will feel the corresponding shocks.

There is no clear criterion regarding the frequency of cases of hiccups in a child during the day. Some pregnant women noted this phenomenon throughout the day: morning, afternoon and evening. Others, on the contrary, once every few days. There are several versions of why this happens, for example, some believe that in this way the baby's body is preparing for the birth, training the lungs. According to another version, he swallows amniotic fluid, which causes diaphragmatic contractions. Therefore, if at the 33rd week of pregnancy the child hiccups, then this is more of a norm than a deviation.

In any case, do not immediately panic. A sign of hypoxia (lack of oxygen) is a decrease in hemoglobin and the absence of fetal movement. In other cases, it is necessary to adhere to the correct sleep and rest regimen.

Norms of the position of the fetus

The main questions that concern not only parents, but also the doctor: what happens to the baby at the 33rd week of pregnancy, how does he feel, what position has he taken in the uterine cavity? It is believed that with a premature birth at this time, the baby is born quite viable. One of the important parameters that are determined at this stage of pregnancy is the position of the fetus in the womb. The most unfavorable option is a transverse arrangement. It is an absolute indication for delivery by caesarean section. Least successful, but likely to receive childbirth naturally option - the pelvic position of the fetus. However, even here there are some peculiarities, which are already determined closer to the expected date of birth.

It is believed that the main part of the difficult path has been passed, on the calendar - the 33rd week of pregnancy, how many months are already behind, we can safely say that this is the finish line. Therefore, it is necessary to accept the fact of the location of the fetus and not worry if obstetric care is carried out with the help of surgery.

Different things can occur with multiple pregnancies. In this case, it is almost likely that one of the babies will be positioned correctly, the other not. Therefore, doctors pay special attention to the development of the fetus at the 33rd week of pregnancy and before the birth itself. Since in case of multiple pregnancy the risk of onset of labor activity previously laid down is quite large. In order to maintain and control the course of a multiple pregnancy for as long as possible, doctors recommend that a woman go to the hospital in advance.

breech presentation

When a child does not have time to roll over head down, to take a position that is most optimal for his birth, doctors talk about breech presentation. At the 33rd week of pregnancy, it is likely that the baby will no longer be able to change position and by the time labor begins, the question will arise about the method of his birth. Thanks to modern technology, it is possible to control this issue before the onset of intense contractions. Doctors try to offer the most favorable option for maintaining the health of the mother and fetus, as a rule, this is a caesarean section.

Women who are faced with this situation often ask themselves the question: what happens at 33 weeks of pregnancy with a child who is in breech presentation? Definitely do not worry about the fact that it can harm the child. If other indicators are normal, then until the birth itself, it is necessary to follow the recommendations of the doctor. In medical practice, it is customary to distinguish the following types of presentations:

  • Buttock-leg, which is diagnosed in 25% of cases in pregnant women, in which the position of the legs of the fetus is crossed, knees and hips are bent.
  • The gluteal is considered the most favorable for the possibility of natural delivery. Such a diagnosis is made in 65% of cases of breech presentation of the fetus. The position of the baby is visualized by ultrasound as follows: sitting on the priest, the knees are straightened, the legs are pressed to the body and bent at the hips.
  • Foot position occurs in 10% of cases. It looks like this: one or two legs of the fetus are unbent at the thigh.

However, there is a small percentage of the likelihood that the mother will be able to "negotiate" with the baby and he will still accept correct posture. Some doctors recommend standing on all fours, thereby stimulating the baby to move. By the way, this exercise perfectly relaxes the back muscles. Therefore, we can safely say that it is useful for both.

Finding out the reason that leads to a similar arrangement of the fetus, it is worth noting that there may be other factors:

  • Premature onset of childbirth (it is believed that up to 36 weeks there is a chance that the baby will change its position).
  • Polyhydramnios or oligohydramnios (this leads to excessive activity of the fetus inside the womb or, conversely, the inability to take the correct position due to lack of space).
  • The presence of defects or abnormalities in the development of the child.
  • Weak muscles of the body of the uterus, which occurs with short breaks between the previous and present pregnancy.
  • Pathologies in the development of the uterus, abnormal structure, the presence of fibroids.

What does entanglement of the umbilical cord lead to

During the third screening, not only the condition of the fetus is determined, but also the functioning of the uteroplacental circulation. In some cases, umbilical cord entanglement is established. At the 33rd week of pregnancy, this may indicate that at the moment immediately after the birth of the child, the doctor will urgently need to remove the umbilical loop from his neck. The possibility of entanglement is affected not so much by the mobility of the child as by the length of the umbilical cord. It is believed that the longer it is (for example, more than 70 cm), the higher the risk of loops around the baby's neck. There were cases when the umbilical cord wrapped around the body of the fetus, reducing its motor activity.

Control of blood flow inside the umbilical cord is carried out using dopplerometry and during CTG. These studies allow you to determine what happens at the 33rd week of pregnancy with the child and how he feels. Since, while inside the womb, the baby does not breathe on its own, the presence of a single or more entanglement does not pose a certain threat to the health of the fetus. It is worth fearing only when the blood supply is disturbed and the child begins to experience signs of hypoxia. You can correct the picture with the help of the right treatment. This can be done by a doctor who leads the pregnancy.

It feels like at 33 weeks pregnant, a woman may not notice that her baby has an entanglement in the umbilical cord. Until the onset of the birth itself, this moment does not manifest itself in any way. However, the attending physician should be aware of this circumstance. As a rule, he learns about this by studying the results of ultrasound, which are available in the medical record.

At a period of 33 weeks of pregnancy, a woman should visit a gynecologist already 2 times a week. This will reduce the likelihood of various complications. Also, don't lie to your doctor about how you feel. Perhaps the gynecologist will offer hospitalization, which you should not refuse, because in this case the woman will be under round-the-clock medical supervision, which, if necessary, will allow her to prolong the pregnancy or take a premature birth.

What happens to the baby

The fetus continues to actively develop and accumulate subcutaneous fat, its body parts become proportional. But the child is not yet able to keep warm, since there is still very little fatty tissue.

His weight is rapidly increasing, her movements are becoming less and less active, it is becoming more and more difficult for him to turn.

The brain is already fully formed, the kidneys and lungs are performing their function. The tone of blood vessels increases, their walls become stronger and thicker.

A fingerprint pattern has fully formed on the fingers and toes.

Typically, the baby has assumed its final position in the uterus. He has almost fully formed immunity, nervous and endocrine systems.

His internal organs have completed their development. The child is already dreaming, during REM sleep his pupils move.

He has his own daily routine: he is awake and resting at almost the same hours.

By this time, in boys, the testicles descend into the scrotum.

Bone and cartilage tissue continues to be mineralized due to calcium coming from outside with food. But the bones of the skull do not completely ossify. Thanks to the cartilaginous joints, they can move, which facilitates their passage through the birth canal.

But we must remember that each child is individual and develops differently.

What's going on with mom

The belly is still growing. The enlarged uterus compresses the internal organs, causing heartburn, shortness of breath and difficulty with bowel movements.

The bottom of the uterus is located at a distance of 13 cm from the navel and 33 cm above the pubic symphysis. Increasingly, a woman feels Braxton-Hicks contractions. At this time, it is useful to perform Kegel exercises, which will help strengthen the muscles of the perineum, which will prevent their ruptures during childbirth, and the procedure itself is less painful.

Against the background of hormonal changes occurring in the body, the ligaments of the pelvic bones soften, the mammary glands increase in size, and colostrum accumulates in them. Some women may experience pain and swelling in the legs, which increase in the late afternoon.

The amount of circulating blood in the body of a pregnant woman averages about 5 liters, which is 1 liter more than it was before conception.

Every week, a woman continues to gain an average of about 300 g. Normally, from the beginning of pregnancy, a woman can gain weight from 10 to 12.5 kg.

Symptoms of 33 weeks of pregnancy

Due to hormonal changes in the body and the ever-increasing size of the uterus, which compresses nearby organs, a woman may experience:

  • digestive problems such as excessive gas, bloating, heartburn, belching;
  • ear congestion, dizziness and headaches;
  • varicose veins and hemorrhoids;
  • cramps in the calf muscles, which usually disturb a woman during sleep;
  • shortness of breath, appearing even after small physical exertion;
  • frequent urge to empty the bladder,;
  • sleep disorders;
  • bleeding from the nose and gums;
  • pain in the mammary glands, lower extremities, back, pelvic area;
  • leakage of colostrum;
  • swelling;
  • vaginal discharge, they can be milky, white or light gray in color, without a sharp unpleasant odor, and there should be no such discomfort as itching and burning of the genitals (leucorrhoea cause discomfort, they are yellow or green, they contain traces of blood, you should immediately consult a doctor, as this may be a symptom of infection, placental abruption, miscarriage).

The skin on the abdomen continues to stretch and may itch. A woman may notice dry skin.


Feelings at 33 weeks pregnant

At this time, the emotional state of most women becomes stable, all experiences disappear, and calmness appears.

Closer to childbirth, a woman often feels nasal congestion. To eliminate it, it is forbidden to use sprays. You can eliminate unpleasant symptoms with the help of moisturizers, for example, it is permissible to use the drug,.

It is important to monitor the movements of the fetus. To do this, you need to sit comfortably, and count them in 2 hours, they should be at least 10. When it is worth reporting this to the gynecologist at the appointment, he will appoint additional examinations.

Analyzes and examinations

If a woman for some reason did not undergo a planned ultrasound, then the doctor gives a referral to him. During the study, the sonologist determines:

  • whether the fetus develops correctly, its dimensions (weight, height, chest and head girth, limb length);
  • the location of the fetus in the uterus, since it depends on how the birth will proceed, whether it will be necessary to carry out surgery;
  • the state of the internal organs and blood vessels of the fetus;
  • the presence of entanglement with the umbilical cord, if it is present, how many times;
  • the size of the uterus;
  • volume of amniotic fluid.

A planned ultrasound allows you to assess how the pregnancy is proceeding, adjust the date of the upcoming birth.

Also, for a period of 33 weeks, you will need to visit a antenatal clinic. Bring blood and urine with you for testing. During the appointment, the gynecologist will measure the height of the uterus, the size of the abdomen, blood pressure and pulse, and determine weight gain.

Another study that allows you to find out how the pregnancy proceeds is cardiotocography (CTG), which makes it possible to assess the heart rate and uterine tone.

Dopplerometry can be prescribed - this is a type of ultrasound that allows you to assess the speed of blood flow to the fetus, in the vessels of the placenta and uterus. This study helps to determine if the child is suffering. And also to determine in which vessels the pathological process develops. Assign dopplerometry according to the following indications:

  • the woman's age is over 35 or under 20;
  • on ultrasound, it was revealed that the loops of the umbilical cord are located next to the neck or wrap around it;
  • the fetus lags behind in physical development;
  • multiple pregnancy, especially if one fetus is much larger than the other;
  • deficiency or excess of amniotic fluid;
  • unsuccessful outcome of previous pregnancies: spontaneous abortion, intrauterine fetal death, congenital malformations;
  • abdominal trauma during childbearing;
  • chronic pathologies of the mother: hypertension, inflammation, lupus, angiitis;
  • different Rh factors in mother and fetus;
  • there is a suspicion that the internal organs of the fetus develop incorrectly;
  • poor CTG results.

Possible dangers at 33 weeks pregnant

At this gestational age, complications such as:

  • gestosis, which is accompanied by increased blood pressure, vertigo and headaches;
  • early birth;
  • bloody issues from the genital tract, the cause of which is previa or placental abruption;
  • small or large amount of amniotic fluid.

All these pathologies can be caused by:

  • anemia, so a woman needs to donate blood regularly in order to detect a decrease in hemoglobin levels in time and take the necessary measures;
  • pathology of the kidneys and blood vessels;
  • large weight gain or malnutrition;
  • smoking while carrying a child.

It is important to take good care of your health. If leakage of amniotic fluid is detected, it is necessary to seek medical help as soon as possible, since if the amniotic bladder is violated, the child can be easily infected.

If the waters have broken, then you need to immediately call an ambulance, as this indicates the onset of premature birth.

Also, you should seek medical help if there are cinnamon or scarlet discharge, abdominal pain, a change in its shape, especially during pregnancy with two or more fetuses.

Most likely, to avoid dangerous consequences, you will have to go to the hospital.

When a woman's placenta has not completely exfoliated, but only a small part of it, then there is still a chance to keep the pregnancy. With a significant or complete detachment of the placenta, there is a high probability of fetal death: it ceases to receive oxygen and dies from suffocation.

During this period, a woman must comply with the following rules:

  1. Follow a diet.

    Weight gain for 33 weeks should not exceed 300 g, if it is more, then the likelihood of developing late toxicosis increases.

    Exclude legumes, sweets, cabbage, and other foods that cause fermentation in the intestines and increased gas formation from the diet. To combat constipation, the menu should include beets and prunes. Drink enough liquid. It is advisable to drink water before meals, it stimulates the production of gastric juice, which improves digestion. But it is better to refrain from drinking immediately after eating, since in this case the liquid will dilute the hydrochloric acid, and the food will be digested worse. In addition, water drunk before meals will fill the stomach and the woman will eat less.

  2. At this time, the diet should include foods containing fatty acids that are responsible for the development of the cognitive abilities of the fetus: memory, attention, the ability to think and understand. That is why fatty fish species should be included in the diet. Those who are allergic to it can eat almonds, walnuts and eggs, dress salads with linseed oil.
  3. It is necessary to monitor the amount of fluid drunk and released, the difference between them should be less than 300 ml. When it is larger, this indicates fluid retention in the body and this should be reported to the attending physician. To reduce the likelihood of edema, it is necessary to reduce the daily amount of salt. Get plenty of rest, slightly raising your legs.
  4. Make time for physical activities. This will help to avoid too much weight gain, normalize blood circulation and reduce the risk of swelling.
  5. Walk regularly, ventilate the room in which the woman sleeps.
  6. You should not stand on your back, as in this case the vessels responsible for the blood supply to the fetus are experienced. It is better to sleep on the left side.
  7. To eliminate dry skin, use moisturizers. To eliminate itching, you can use a baby cream.
  8. You need to wear compression stockings and a prenatal bandage. They will reduce the load on the legs and spine.
  9. Do not get cold, do not come into contact with people who have symptoms of a viral or bacterial infection. Check the expiration dates and quality of products, this will help reduce the risk of food poisoning.
  10. After consulting with a specialist, take preparations containing calcium and magnesium. This will reduce the likelihood of leg cramps. If they appear, you need to massage the affected leg and pull its fingertips towards you.
  11. It is important to keep your back straight, this will reduce the discomfort associated with pushing the child.
  12. It is important not only to decide on the maternity hospital, but also to attend courses that will teach you how to behave correctly during childbirth.
  13. Caffeinated drinks should be excluded from the diet, as they reduce the absorption of iron.
  14. To eliminate heartburn, you can drink milk, dairy products, jelly.
  15. At the risk of developing hemorrhoids, as well as when it appears, you need to wash with warm water.
  16. If colostrum is excreted in in large numbers it is necessary to use breast pads, otherwise it is possible to develop an infectious-inflammatory process. The mammary glands should be washed regularly with water so that crusts do not form.
  17. You can have sex if a woman does not have oligohydramnios, pregnancy with twins or more, a low location of the placenta, and the risk of preterm birth.
  18. If a woman is afraid of childbirth, then she should visit a psychologist.

With a normal pregnancy, there are about 7 weeks left before delivery. Therefore, it is worth carefully preparing for the birth of a child.

At 33 weeks pregnant, your baby continues to gain weight, this process will only stop before childbirth.

In the meantime, the task of the expectant mother is to monitor health in the broadest sense of the term. Your close tandem continues to grow stronger. The baby needs you, and you really need him.

A little more than a month remains before the birth. And this cannot but affect the attitude of a pregnant woman.

Your baby is the size of...

1900 grams
450 mm
120-160 bpm

Fetal development

Now the fetus is gaining weight more and more, it is rounded, its body becomes proportional. Subcutaneous tissue is deposited in the face, the cheeks are round, the skin becomes pink.

This is what your baby looks like at 33 weeks

The hair on the head continues to grow and gain pigment, while the hair on the body is gradually pumped out.

The baby continues to take away from his mother the building material necessary for himself - calcium. Its bones are strengthened, remaining mobile only in the region of the sutures of the skull - so it will be easier for the baby to be born. The auricles become denser, the nails reach the edge of the nail phalanx of the fingers.

All the internal organs of the baby were included in the work. The pancreas produces insulin, the liver works, the kidneys pass through a sufficient amount of fluid. The thyroid gland is not far behind them, it is ready to independently perform its functions.

The walls of the alveoli are covered from the inside with a surfactant, without which the lungs simply cannot open. A baby born at 33 weeks pregnant is more likely to be able to breathe on its own.

At this time, in boys, the testicles should descend into the scrotum. The genitals of girls are fully formed.

The rate of formation of nerve cells and connections in the brain is very high. Centers are maturing, which after childbirth will take over the function of ensuring the normal existence of the child. The fetus sees dreams, distinguishes between light and darkness, tastes and smells.

The baby's heart performs 120-160 beats per minute. Evaluation of his cardiac activity helps the doctor in time to suspect conditions that threaten the life of the child.

The formation of the immune system is only gaining momentum, so any infection at this stage of pregnancy can adversely affect the health and further development of the baby.

There is less and less room for the baby in the uterus, he is less mobile. His movements are more like a warm-up of the limbs, and not the previous "heats".

Ultrasound at 33 weeks pregnant

At 33 weeks of gestation, all mothers-to-be should have a 3rd screening ultrasound. It is prescribed to detect malformations of the gastrointestinal tract, the baby's heart and other organs.

Also, during this ultrasound, the functional ability of the placenta is assessed - the degree of maturity, blood flow in it, the presence of foreign inclusions (calcifications). The amount of amniotic fluid is measured.

Fetal measurements are taken to clarify compliance with the gestational age. The lungs are carefully examined to determine their degree of maturity and readiness for independent breathing outside the mother's body.

The umbilical cord is examined without fail, it is clarified whether there is an entanglement around the neck or limbs of the child, whether there are knots, the number of vessels in it, the blood flow through them.

What happens in your body at 33 weeks?

Your body continues to change. And even if it seemed to you that your stomach would not grow anymore, you will have to make sure that the reserves still remain - it continues to grow and tighten the surrounding organs.

The uterus at 33 weeks of gestation should be in a normal tone. An increase in tone for a short time up to 10 times a day is considered the norm. If this happens more often, and you experience discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen, be sure to tell the doctor about it.

How do you feel at 33 weeks?

By this time, the expectant mother feels the approach of childbirth more and more, more often she sees disturbing dreams. Of the unpleasant sensations, it is worth noting heartburn, cramps, shortness of breath and itching in the abdomen.

Heartburn at 33 weeks can become an almost constant companion and does not go away even at night. It develops due to the action of hormones on the gastric tract and relaxation of the sphincters, as well as due to an increase in the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

Also, cramps in the calf muscles may appear at night, which indicates a lack of calcium.

The abdomen itches due to excessive dryness and overstretching of the skin. Creams for stretch marks can help alleviate the condition.

When lying on your back, you may feel dizzy, turning into a faint - a large uterus compresses the abdominal aorta. Before giving birth, it is better to choose a less dangerous position for rest.

The lungs are compressed, and it becomes more difficult to take a full breath - the pregnant woman constantly feels shortness of breath.

Discharge from the genital tract

Observation of secretions from the genital tract is still relevant. Normally, the discharge should be light, not abundant, without an unpleasant odor.

Any changes are a reason to seek help. Of particular concern should be spotting, which indicates the threat of premature birth. Purulent discharge with bad smell- a consequence of infection, and require immediate treatment.

Photo of tummies at 33 weeks

Examinations at 33 weeks

Mandatory examination methods at week 33 include measuring body weight, abdominal circumference, and the height of the uterine fundus.

Of the laboratory methods, the following are necessary: ​​general blood and urine tests, blood for clotting, Rh antibodies (with mother's Rh-negative blood).

Starting from week 30, you will be regularly referred for CTG - a cardiotocogram. Modern devices record three main indicators - the heart rate of the fetus, its motor activity and the strength of uterine contractions.

CTG allows you to identify a violation in the condition of the fetus, which is not always possible to suspect with ultrasound.

Risks at 33 weeks

At 33 weeks, the risk of preterm birth remains, especially if the pregnant woman is carrying several fetuses, or the baby has gained a lot of weight. A bandage will help reduce the likelihood of early disclosure of the cervix and the outflow of amniotic fluid. It is recommended to wear it until 37 weeks.

It is necessary to avoid falls, injuries in the abdomen, heavy loads, so as not to provoke placental abruption.

Important at 33 weeks

Sex at this time is not contraindicated for most pregnant women, but this issue should be discussed with your doctor. During sex, do not forget to use a condom - semen has an exciting effect on the muscles of the uterus and can cause their hypertonicity.

Decide in which maternity hospital you will give birth, find out what you need to take with you and collect a “disturbing suitcase”. So you will make life easier not only for yourself, but also for your loved ones. And do not forget to put cosmetics in it - it may seem funny to you now, but you really want to look beautiful, especially in a family photo.

Choose the right positions for rest and sleep - it is not recommended to sit cross-legged and sleep on your back - both positions impede blood flow in the mother's body.

Nutrition at 33 weeks

It is better to eat homemade, cooked with a minimum amount of fat, food. In the diet, fruits and vegetables in fresh and thermally processed form, sour-milk products are still important.

Refusal of spicy, fatty, smoked, and eating in fractional portions will help to cope with heartburn.

For the prevention of edema, monitor the level of salt in the products.

Mode

Continue to follow the regimen until childbirth kindergarten- sleep after dinner, walk in the morning and evening. It is best to sleep in a well-ventilated area.

The period of pregnancy, starting from the 33rd week, is considered to be a kind of finish line at the end of a long and filled with anxieties, as well as joyful expectations of the distance. Usually, the leading gynecologist prescribes a planned - third - ultrasound observation for this particular period; and if the examination does not reveal any abnormalities, he sighs with relief and joyfully announces to the expectant mother: “Now your child is already fully formed and will only grow for the rest of the time.”

The expectant mother can now relax and not be unnecessarily afraid of the possibility of premature birth. The most important processes in the development of the baby are already behind. His weight reached 2 kilograms, and possibly more. Average length a baby during this period can vary from 40 to 45 cm. According to these parameters, the period "33 weeks" is distinguished by gynecologists and marks the end of the process of fetal formation and at the same time preparation for labor.

Scientifically, the 33rd week of pregnancy is described as the period when:

  • the uterus has increased significantly compared to the size at the time of conception: the height of its bottom reaches 33-34 cm, and the bottom is felt under the ribs;

Feelings of a woman at 33 weeks pregnant: familiar and new

You should not expect that the physical and emotional sensations of a woman will somehow change dramatically after the "last turn before the finish line." As the joyful event of the long-awaited meeting with the newborn approaches, the woman experiences more and more hardships laid down for 9 months of gestation. Approximately this can be expressed alternately:

  • morning “I can’t experience this pain in my back anymore, if only to give birth as soon as possible!”
  • dining "What a joy to feel his movements inside!"
  • for an afternoon snack: “Oh, how my legs hurt! Where would you put them higher?
  • evening “Oh, how I want to eat more! And when will this eternal limitation end!”
  • night “Well, why didn’t they come up with a special position for sleeping pregnant women or special beds so that you can fall asleep!”

With a good pregnancy, by week 33, signs of toxicosis should no longer bother the pregnant woman (we will talk about a dangerous deviation from this norm - gestosis - below). However, it is unlikely that you will be able to relax, because they will be replaced by other, not the most comfortable sensations. Namely:

  • Increasing pain in the back and legs due to significant weight gain (by 33 weeks, an acceptable weight gain is 8-12.5 kg). Back pain can also torment at night, due to the pressure of a greatly grown fetus. Avoid sleeping on your back and on your left side (so as not to create a load on the heart). Instead, train yourself to sleep on your right side, and under your left leg, left hand and place extra pillows under your back. Rest from time to time in the middle of the day by placing your feet slightly above body level.
  • Increased sweating, shortness of breath, sometimes dizziness, a feeling of lack of air, up to loss of consciousness - all this can be experienced by a woman, especially after 33 weeks, especially if there are violations of the vegetative-vascular system.

The author of the article is a mother of five children. Although almost all of my pregnancies went relatively well and I led an active lifestyle, at the end of almost every one I felt like I was out of breath. Two or three times I almost passed out in a closed and stuffy room, as I gave birth to four children in a hot summer.

The described sensations are quite understandable, since after 33 weeks a woman literally lives, as it were, for two, and it is quite possible that her own organs are sometimes unable to cope with the increased load. The main thing for every pregnant woman is to know and understand her individual characteristics, and not to put herself in risky situations. For example, in my position, I tried to avoid stuffy rooms, excessively tight and tight clothes.

  • The already noted changes in the endocrine system are the reason that, as well as throughout pregnancy, and after 33 weeks, a woman feels that she is hotter than those around her. From my own experience I will say that this is a great boon in winter, but a real punishment in the heat of summer. Relatives and friends should pay attention to this and stock up on patience and understanding, because even for a second they do not experience all the discomfort that a pregnant woman has to endure. Therefore, if a pregnant woman next to you in the office asks you to turn on the central air conditioner, and it’s cold outside, and you are already cold, try to make a concession, even if you have to wear outerwear. Your suffering for several hours is nothing compared to what the expectant mother has to endure for 9 months and 24 hours a day.

Ideally, if the baby stops in a head presentation position - that is, upside down, since from now on he will keep it until the moment of birth. In a breech presentation, vaginal delivery (that is, not a caesarean section) is also possible if the doctor thinks that you are able to cope with the task, since obstetricians know how to remove newborns in this case too. The absolute indication for caesarean section is the transverse position of the child, which does not happen very often.

  • Instead of funny "flips" you now expect quite tangible "tapping". Of course, the intensity and strength of blows to the walls of the abdomen by its temporary resident depends on the sex, size and individual temperament of the baby. And yet, at least a few times, almost every expectant mother will have to almost gasp from a real breath - a kick “in the ribs”. With a normal head presentation, the baby's legs are located just under the ribs: if you wish, you will soon be able to almost always easily find his heel, from which it will seem to “float away”. If for some reason your child chooses breech presentation and stays in it, then you will experience no less uncomfortable sensations from his “peruettes”, but already in the pelvic area.

Usually they give an average figure for indicators of tangible movements of the baby - 10 oscillations per hour (in some sources at 2 hours), however, from my own experience I will say that there is no common denominator for all cases, since it depends on the individual character of the child. The main thing is that the movements should be and retain their original character. Sometimes during the day you may simply not notice them - do not panic right away: in the evening before going to bed, try to communicate with the baby, stroke your stomach, talk. Most likely, you will be answered with one or two blows from the "inner space". If within 24 hours you absolutely did not feel a single movement, especially if so far they have been very pronounced and active, it is better to play it safe and go to the doctor, even if you had a scheduled consultation 2 days ago.

  • Another characteristic symptom of 33 weeks and subsequent can be called vivid, sometimes disturbing, almost always thematic dreams. Often it is during this period that women have real prophetic dreams, which are known even from the history of religions. It happens that her previously deceased relatives “come” to the future mother: grandfathers, grandmothers - and even give a name to the unborn child or foreshadow the exact date of birth. This is completely normal for a pregnant woman, you should not be afraid of this, nor give it too much importance. The most important thing for you is to keep yourself and your baby healthy.
  • A much less attractive sign of the 8th obstetric month is insomnia. Personally, it seemed to me that I had not slept at all in recent months. This is all the more unpleasant because with the birth of a baby, only in exceptional cases does a young mother manage to sleep to her heart's content. Often it is expected at least 3 more months sleepless nights due to colic in the baby. Therefore, if after 33 weeks you cannot get enough sleep at night, try to find time during the day in order to “get” the necessary hours. Do not allow fatigue, and even more deterioration of the body at the end of pregnancy. You only dream that this is the end of hardships. The real difficulties are yet to come; they will begin as soon as you return home from the hospital, and will never end as long as your baby is still a baby. Over time, you will get used to them and you will no longer be able to live differently. But it will be difficult at the very beginning. Therefore, just at the end of pregnancy, when it is difficult, uncomfortable and almost impossible to sleep, you just need to get enough sleep - in order to stock up on strength for the upcoming difficult first months.

Video - 33 weeks pregnant

What to look out for

Of the listed sensations of the expectant mother, almost all of them are absolutely normal for the described period, that is, it is simply useful to know about them, but you should not attach much importance. Only the sudden complete cessation of the baby's movements should be a valid reason for an extraordinary visit to the doctor. However, there are much more important symptoms, the presence of which may indicate the need for urgent medical attention. Therefore, they are given a special section in our article.

Reasons for alarm

Every pregnant woman in the period after 33 weeks observes an increase in vaginal discharge. On the one hand, this is natural, but the norm is only transparent, not very abundant and odorless discharge. If they take on a curdled appearance or a grayish tint, become opaque, even worse - dark, unpleasant (sweet or otherwise) smelling, and even more bloody or too plentiful (so much so that your underwear literally gets wet), sound the alarm. and see a doctor immediately.

A change in the quality of secretions can mean the presence of an infectious infection of the urinary tract, and their excessive abundance can even mean placental abruption or rupture of the amniotic membranes. This is all the more likely if the intensification of the discharge is accompanied by cramping pains, pain in the lower back or prolonged pain in the same part of the abdomen, and also, as already noted, the detection of blood. Both the first and second are equally dangerous for the baby's life, so you need to immediately notify the doctor, and he must already decide what next steps to take. Sometimes artificially induced preterm labor becomes the only way out (especially if there is a risk of amniotic fluid leakage) in order to save the life of the child.

Gestosis, or late toxicosis, at 33 weeks of gestation

This is a very dangerous condition during and after the 33rd week of pregnancy, the development of which must be tried by all means to prevent and even more important not to miss. The fact is that its symptoms are sometimes implicit; the development of preeclampsia threatens with very dangerous consequences for both the child and the mother.

Significant signs of gestosis are:

  • nausea, and even slight malaise;
  • dizziness;
  • edema (both obvious and hidden, the presence of which can only be found out with the help of special tests);
  • high blood pressure (140 and above). Sometimes it is this symptom that indicates the presence of this problem in a woman. It is very important not to try to fight it on your own, since an increase in pressure is a kind of protective reaction of the body to preeclampsia, in order to save the fetus.

An urgent referral to a doctor is necessary, which is likely to require immediate hospitalization if the diagnosis is confirmed.

For the prevention of preeclampsia, it is necessary throughout pregnancy:

  • strictly follow the recommendations of your doctor;
  • completely exclude from the diet spicy, smoked, salty;
  • make your meals as fractional as possible: the closer to the end of pregnancy, the smaller the amount of food you take at a time;
  • avoid excessive fluid intake, especially in the late afternoon;
  • Introduce as many vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits into your diet as possible;
  • arrange a fasting day once a week (for example, eat one type of fruit or drink one juice all day);
  • in the absence of contraindications throughout pregnancy, lead an active lifestyle, do special exercises, attend swimming groups for pregnant women, and be outdoors as often as possible.

Conclusion

Perhaps the most important recommendation for a woman during this period will be to maintain a positive attitude and emotionally prepare for a meeting with the baby soon. This is the best period for conversations with your child, as well as for preparing his dowry. However, do not forget about the appropriate preparation of households. After all, it is their warm participation in a month or two that will help you in the first difficult days of caring for a newborn.