30 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect This Week
Thirty weeks pregnant — ten weeks to go. Your baby's brain is growing at an astonishing rate and the bone marrow has fully taken over red blood cell production. You're well into the home stretch now.
Baby at Week 30: Size of a large cabbage
Baby's Development at 30 Weeks
The brain is growing so rapidly that it's beginning to develop the characteristic folds and wrinkles (gyrification) that dramatically increase its processing capacity. Red blood cells are now being produced entirely in the bone marrow — the liver and spleen no longer need to do this job. Baby is storing iron, calcium, and phosphorus in preparation for life outside the womb. The lanugo is largely shed. Baby is about 39–40cm long and gaining roughly 200g per week.
Your Body at 30 Weeks Pregnant
Braxton Hicks contractions become more frequent and intense from week 30. Pelvic floor heaviness and discomfort is common. Heartburn is often at its worst this trimester. Many people experience increased breast sensitivity and are leaking colostrum regularly. The belly is large enough that everyday activities — tying shoes, bending over, getting up from a chair — require real effort.
Tips for Week 30
- Tour your maternity unit and ask all your questions — knowing the layout on the day reduces anxiety.
- Pre-register at your hospital if possible — filling in forms during labour is the last thing you want.
- Finish the nursery and baby equipment setup while you still have the energy.
- Accept help from friends and family now — let people cook, clean, and shop for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at 30-week antenatal appointments?
The 28–30 week appointment typically includes a blood pressure and urine check, measuring fundal height (belly size), checking baby's position, and reviewing blood test results. If you haven't had your glucose screening or anti-D injection (for Rhesus-negative blood types) yet, these happen around this time. It's a good opportunity to discuss your birth plan and any concerns.
How much weight should I have gained by 30 weeks?
Guidelines for a single pregnancy suggest total gain of around 11–16 kg (25–35 lbs) at term. At 30 weeks, around 8–10 kg total is typical, though this varies significantly by pre-pregnancy weight and individual circumstances. Weight gain slows or pauses for some in the final weeks. Your provider will monitor this alongside other health indicators.
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