Welcome to week 33! As you move further into your third trimester, you're likely feeling the anticipation building. It's a time of significant growth for your baby, who is now about the size of a pineapple, and a period of increasing physical and emotional shifts for you.
What's happening with baby
This week, your baby is making great strides in their development, particularly in areas that will support their life outside the womb. Their brain is continuing to grow rapidly, and connections are forming that will allow for more complex functions. The lungs are maturing, getting ready for that first breath, and the immune system is developing as they receive antibodies from you. One of the most heartwarming milestones this week is that your baby is actively practicing recognizing your voice. They've been hearing it for a while now, and this recognition helps build that early bond.
What you might be feeling
Around 33 weeks, many pregnant people notice an increase in pelvic pressure as the baby settles lower. You might also experience more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions, which are your body's way of practicing for labor. Fatigue can make a comeback, as your body is working incredibly hard to support this growing life, and sleep can become more elusive. Emotionally, you might find yourself oscillating between excitement for meeting your baby and a sense of overwhelm or anxiety about what's to come. Nesting instincts can kick in, prompting a desire to organize and prepare your home.
