Stages of pregnancy
Pregnancy week
31 Weeks Pregnant: Baby's Senses, Sleep and Body Changes
At 31 weeks, all five of your baby's senses are fully developed. Learn about REM sleep, Braxton Hicks, colostrum, and essential nutrition tips.
At 31 weeks pregnant, all five of your baby's senses are fully developed and your baby is getting smarter - while you may find yourself increasingly forgetful! Your baby is around 46 cm this week, only 7 cm less than the average length of a baby born at term. REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep is so important that researchers describe humans as having three states of being: awake, asleep, and in REM sleep.
The connections or synapses in your baby's brain are forming by the millions, helped by stimulation from their insulated little world. Your voice, household noise, filtered light, movement, and music all help these vital connections to form.
Physical Changes at 31 Weeks Pregnant
- Braxton Hicks contractions: These are common towards the end of pregnancy and are often referred to as "false labour," lasting only about 30 seconds. Frequent contractions may be a sign of pre-term labour, so call your doctor.
- Colostrum leakage: Watch for yellow liquid called colostrum or "premilk" leaking from your breasts - this is your baby's first food and your body is preparing for arrival.
- Stretch marks: Many women develop stretch marks in the third trimester, though little can be done to prevent them.
- Iron stores: It is very important to boost the iron stores in your body, which may be depleting at this stage.
Helpful Hints for Week 31 of Pregnancy
- 3D/4D ultrasound: If you want to see what your baby looks like, a 3D/4D ultrasound at this stage is perfect timing. You may see your little one blinking, thumb sucking, and even smiling or frowning.
- Monthly doctor visits: You will likely need to see your doctor monthly to assess your baby's growth and how you are going. These visits can be exciting even if they seem repetitive.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These directly impact your baby's brain and eye health. Oily fish like sardines, salmon, and prawns are good sources. Aim to eat a handful of nuts every day and include butter, margarine, and a little cream.
- Daily walking: Getting up from your desk and walking helps your lower limbs push blood back through general circulation. Aim to walk for exercise every day.
Kimberly-Clark India makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness or accuracy of the information. This information should be used only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical or other health professional advice.
FAQs on Week 31
At 31 weeks, all five of your baby's senses are fully developed. Your baby is around 46 cm long, only 7 cm less than average term length. Brain synapses are forming by the millions, stimulated by your voice, household noise, filtered light, movement, and music.
REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep is so important that researchers describe humans as having three states: awake, asleep, and in REM sleep. Your baby at 31 weeks experiences this vital sleep stage, which supports brain development and neural connections.
Colostrum is a yellow liquid also called "premilk" that is your baby's first food. It may start leaking from your breasts around 31 weeks as your body prepares for the baby's arrival. This is completely normal and a sign that your body is getting ready.
Omega-3 fatty acids directly impact your baby's brain and eye health. Good sources include oily fish like sardines, salmon, and prawns. Aim to eat a handful of nuts every day and include butter, margarine, and a little cream in your diet.
Braxton Hicks contractions are common and usually last only about 30 seconds. They are referred to as "false labour" and are normal towards the end of pregnancy. However, frequent contractions may be a sign of pre-term labour, so call your doctor if concerned.
Yes, a 3D/4D ultrasound at 31 weeks is perfect timing to see your baby. You may be able to see your little one blinking, thumb sucking, and even smiling or frowning. It is an exciting way to connect with your baby before birth.
