33 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect This Week
Thirty-three weeks pregnant and your baby is receiving a surge of antibodies from you through the placenta, building the immune system that will protect them after birth. The skull remains intentionally soft for the journey ahead.
Baby at Week 33: Size of a pineapple
Baby's Development at 33 Weeks
The immune system is strengthening rapidly as maternal antibodies cross the placenta. Baby's skull bones are present but intentionally not fused — the skull plates can overlap during delivery (called moulding) to fit through the birth canal, which is why some newborns have cone-shaped heads. The bones of the rest of the body are continuing to harden. Baby's sleep now includes the same REM and non-REM stages as adult sleep.
Your Body at 33 Weeks Pregnant
Urinary incontinence (leaking when coughing, sneezing, or laughing) affects many people at this stage as the baby's weight presses on the bladder and pelvic floor. Pelvic floor exercises are particularly important now. Lower back pain is almost universal. Oedema (swelling) in the hands and face alongside severe headache or vision changes is a warning sign for pre-eclampsia — always contact your provider promptly if this occurs.
Tips for Week 33
- Know the warning signs of pre-eclampsia: severe headache, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, sudden swelling of face and hands. Always seek urgent medical advice.
- Pelvic floor exercises now will significantly help recovery after birth.
- Practise your labour positions and breathing techniques.
- Arrange to start maternity leave with enough time to rest before your due date.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is pre-eclampsia?
Pre-eclampsia is a condition of pregnancy characterised by high blood pressure and signs of organ stress (usually indicated by protein in the urine). It typically develops after week 20 and can be serious for both mother and baby if undetected. Warning signs include severe headache, visual disturbances, upper abdominal pain, and sudden significant swelling. It's why blood pressure monitoring at every antenatal appointment is so important.
Is urinary incontinence during pregnancy normal?
Very common — affecting up to 30–50% of pregnant people in the third trimester. The increased weight of the uterus, hormonal changes affecting the pelvic floor, and the baby pressing on the bladder are all contributing factors. Regular Kegel exercises throughout pregnancy significantly reduce both the likelihood and severity of incontinence.
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A consistent kick count log in Hello, baby gives you and your midwife the clearest picture of your baby's wellbeing.
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