31 Weeks Pregnant

The most common complaint at this stage of development is an incredible backache. The pain will increase as the muscles in your back relax and loosen to prepare for the big day. It doesn’t help that you are carrying an extra load of weight around your middle. By This time in your pregnancy, the average weight gain is 19 pounds. Some gain less; some gain considerably more by this point. Because all of your organs are being pushed upwards, you will have increased heartburn. The best way to handle this is to eat small meals and to eat more frequently. You should also remain upright after meals so that your body can properly digest the food.

Leg Cramps

Another common complaint is leg pain. Varicose veins and calf cramps tend to occur in the later weeks of pregnancy. Try stretching the muscles and asking your partner for a light massage to alleviate some of the pain. Also consider wearing support hose and keeping your legs elevated throughout the day. Your comfort will depend on finding simple methods to alleviate pain since most over-the-counter medicines ore out of the question during your pregnancy.

Sound Recognition

Chances of survival for a baby born 31 weeks or later are great. The lungs are more fully developed now and are functional this week. Your baby can now breathe and take in air. The ears have matured inside and out. The baby can now recognize a variety of sounds, voices and tunes. Talk to your baby often and she will come to recognize the pitch of your voice. Babies are especially responsive to the high pitch of a woman’s voice. The eyes also continue to develop. The irises dilate and contract in response to light. The skin changes from red to pink. Your baby measures 3 lbs 8 ounces and 11.2 inches.