31st week

Hello Beautiful Mommies,

It’s such a joy to see you radiating with that maternal glow, eagerly anticipating the days ahead. Just a few more weeks, my curious mamas and you’ll be embracing the most precious role in your life. Let’s delve into the developments of your 31st week.

At this remarkable stage, your baby has grown to approximately the size of a coconut, weighing in at around 3.3 to 3.8 pounds (1.5 to 1.7 kilograms) approximately. Their brain continues its rapid development, with neural connections multiplying to support more complex brain functions. Body fat is accumulating, not only to regulate their body temperature but also to provide a vital energy source after their grand entrance into the world

With the confines of the womb becoming cosier, your little one’s movements are growing more coordinated. During an ultrasound, you might even catch a glimpse of those eyelids fluttering. Inside, your baby is practising various facial expressions, from hiccupping to swallowing, breathing and even testing out those adorable limbs along the walls of your womb.

By week 31, the baby’s reproductive system, while still in development, has established many major structures. In the case of male babies, the testes have typically descended from the abdomen into the scrotum, marking a significant milestone in their reproductive development. For our female babies, their ovaries have fully developed, housing all the precious eggs (oocytes) they’ll have throughout their lifetime.

Now, let’s talk about some common symptoms during the 31st week:

Leaky breasts: Leaky breasts are quite common during pregnancy and this is often referred to as “colostrum leakage.” Colostrum is the first milk produced by your breasts during pregnancy and in the early postnatal days. It’s packed with nutrients and antibodies, serving as your baby’s first meal until mature breast milk arrives a few days after birth. Consider using nursing pads and other comfort measures to manage this.

Sleep troubles: Sleep patterns can undergo significant changes during pregnancy due to physical discomfort, hormonal fluctuations and other factors. The third trimester can introduce new sleep challenges. As your baby grows larger, finding a comfortable sleeping position becomes increasingly challenging. Common discomforts like back pain, heartburn and leg cramps can also disrupt your slumber.

Occasional headaches: Experiencing occasional headaches during the final trimester is not uncommon. It’s important to monitor them and, if necessary, take steps to alleviate the discomfort.

Clumsiness: Feeling a bit clumsy during this phase of pregnancy is completely normal. It can be attributed to the physical and hormonal changes your body is undergoing. Your centre of gravity shifts as your baby grows, affecting your balance. A larger abdomen can make movement less comfortable, affecting your coordination. Swelling in the hands and feet, common during pregnancy, can also impact fine motor skills.

Dry, brittle nails: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can affect the condition of your nails. Increased levels of hormones like estrogen can lead to changes in nail texture and appearance. As your body prioritises nutrients for your growing baby, your nails and hair may receive fewer essential nutrients, making them more prone to dryness and brittleness.
Constipation: Constipation can be a bother during this stage due to hormonal changes, pressure from the growing uterus on the intestines and prenatal vitamins. Increase your intake of fibre-rich foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes. Staying well-hydrated can prevent stools from hardening and regular exercise is equally essential to reduce the impact of constipation.

Routine Tests and Screenings:

During the 31st week of pregnancy, your healthcare provider may recommend routine tests and screenings, including blood pressure measurement, weight and fundal height checks, foetal heartbeat monitoring, glucose screening, Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening and anaemia screening.

This week is a bit of a mixed bag, both physically and emotionally. Aim to consume smaller, balanced meals, manage your symptoms, prioritise rest and foster positive thoughts to reduce stress. Remember to indulge in a bit of self-care and seek the best support and supplements when needed. Until next time, take care. Goodbye for now.

Recipe for the 31st week: Black Urad Dal Kali

INGREDIENTS

Urad dal with skin – 1/2 cup
Parboiled rice – 1 tsp
Palm jaggery – 1 cup
Sesame oil – 1/4 cup
Cardamom powder – 1/2 cup

METHOD

In a pan add urad dal and rice. Roast in a low flame until it gives a nice aroma.
Keep aside to cool.
In another pan add palm jaggery and water, cook until it dissolves and then strain and keep aside.
Ground roasted dal and rice in to fine powder
Now add the powder into jaggery water and mix well without lumps.
Cook the mix in low flame.
Add oil little by little and mix well.
Once all the oil is absorbed, switch off add cardamom powder and serve hot.

NUTRITIONAL VALUE

Black urad dal – 371 kcal, 25.7 gms of protein, 154 mg of calcium and 5,14 mg of iron
Sesame oil – total fat 14 g
palm jaggery – 11 mg of iron

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS

Black Ulundhu Kali, made from black gram dal (black urad dal), is a nutritious and traditional dish that can offer several benefits during pregnancy:

Iron-rich: Black urad dal is a good source of iron, which is essential during pregnancy to prevent iron-deficiency anaemia. Anaemia can lead to fatigue, weakness and other complications.

Protein-packed: Black urad dal is rich in protein, crucial for tissue growth and repair during pregnancy. Protein supports the development of the baby’s organs, muscles and overall body structure.

Folate content: Folate (vitamin B9) is vital for preventing neural tube defects in the developing baby. Black urad dal contains folate, contributing to proper foetal development.

Fibre for digestion: The fibre in black urad dal can help prevent or alleviate constipation, a common discomfort during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

Healthy nutrients: Black urad dal is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium and potassium, which are important for bone health, blood pressure regulation and overall well-being.

Sustained energy: The combination of carbohydrates, protein and fibre in Black Ulundhu Kali provides sustained energy, helping to combat pregnancy-related fatigue.

Immune support: The vitamins and minerals in black urad dal, such as vitamin C and zinc, help support a healthy immune system.

Gut health: Fibre in this dish supports a healthy gut, aiding in nutrient absorption and digestion.

Taste and comfort: Black Ulundhu Kali can be a comforting and flavorful dish, satisfying pregnancy cravings and providing a warm and soothing experience.

It’s important to note that while Black Ulundhu Kali can offer these benefits, it should be part of a balanced diet during pregnancy. Consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to ensure that your overall nutrition meets your specific needs during pregnancy, especially if you have dietary restrictions or special considerations.

Wishing you a joyous and healthy pregnancy journey!

Always only speak to a health care service provider for all pregnancy related queries and diet recommendations.