33rd week

Dear Moms-to-Be, Welcome to the 33rd week of your incredible journey into motherhood. It’s very surprising how far you’ve come, isn’t it? As we embark on this week together, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to both you and your little one for reaching this remarkable milestone. Despite the physical and emotional challenges along the way, your strength and resilience shine brightly.

Each week seems to pass in the blink of an eye, yet the changes within you and the life you’re nurturing are nothing short of miraculous. So, let’s delve into this stage of your pregnancy with enthusiasm and positivity.

At this juncture, your baby measures between 40 to 41 centimeters from head to toe, akin to the size of a pineapple. Inside your womb, a fascinating coordination of sucking and swallowing is taking shape. A new reflex, known as the ‘rooting reflex,’ is emerging. This reflex prompts your baby to turn their head and open their mouth when their cheek is gently touched – a prelude to breastfeeding.

Week 33 marks a pivotal moment as your baby’s brain and nervous system are now fully developed. While all their bones are in place, they remain slightly soft and malleable, particularly the plates in their skull. This malleability is crucial for an easier passage through the narrow birth canal during the upcoming birthing process.

It’s noteworthy that your baby is consuming up to half a litre of amniotic fluid each day. This not only nurtures them but also plays a vital role in preparing their gastrointestinal system for the new world they’ll soon explore. Over time, your baby is shedding that initial wrinkled appearance, and their skin is transitioning from red and transparent to soft and smooth as they plump up in anticipation of birth. Their weight gain is accelerating, with the baby adding about half a pound per week, ultimately doubling their birth weight.

Checking Your Symptoms:

Wrist pain: If you’re experiencing achiness and numbness in your fingers, wrists, and hands, it could be carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition arises when the median nerve in the hand is compressed, often due to swelling in your hands and wrists, which is common during pregnancy.
Feeling hot: With an elevated metabolic rate, you may find yourself preferring cooler, airy spaces. This can also lead to the resurgence of headaches, so it’s crucial to stay well-hydrated.
Shortness of breath: As your growing uterus exerts pressure on your diaphragm and pushes against your lungs, some shortness of breath is normal. However, if your symptoms are severe, consult your healthcare provider, as elevated blood pressure or excessive amniotic fluid could be contributing factors.
Trouble sleeping: Physical discomfort often disrupts sleep in late pregnancy. Your growing belly, stretching ligaments, and swelling can all contribute to discomfort. Consider investing in a good pregnancy pillow if you haven’t already; it can make settling down for restful sleep easier.
Frequent urination: Your expanding uterus places pressure on your bladder, intensifying the frequent urination that’s common during the third trimester. While this is entirely normal, it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient.
Rib pain: The pressure from your uterus and your baby’s kicks may result in sore ribs. Some experience mild discomfort, while others may develop a painful swelling of the chest wall cartilage known as costochondritis.

During the 33rd week, your healthcare provider may check to determine if your baby is positioned headfirst in the uterus. If your baby isn’t in the ideal position, such as being rump-first or feet-first after week 36, your provider might discuss options like an external cephalic version, a procedure involving gentle manipulation of your baby’s position.

As your body undergoes these changes, remember that they are all preparations for the grand moment of giving birth. While you navigate the challenges of this trimester, stay vigilant about your symptoms, as they are your body’s way of getting you ready for delivery.

Keep in mind that the wonder of meeting your baby face to face is just around the corner. And as we part ways for now, please don’t forget Pregymatic, the Kangaroo who has had the privilege of guiding you through these remarkable weeks.

Recipe for the 33th week: Cauliflower Peas Masala.

INGREDIENTS.

Cauliflower – 500 gms
Fresh green peas – 100 gms
Ginger garlic paste – 1 tsp
Chilli powder – 2 tsp
Garam masala powder – 1/4 tsp
Onion chopped – 1 medium
Tomato chopped – 1 medium
Oil – 3 tsp
Salt – to taste

METHOD.

Clean cauliflower and keep aside
Keep a kadai, pour oil, add chopped onion and saute well.
Now add tomatoes and ginger garlic paste.
Add cauliflower,peas and saute well.
Then add chilli powder, garam masala powder and salt.
Mix well, add ½ cup of water and close with a lid.
Once vegetables cooked stir for few minutes
Serve hot.

Nutritional value.

Cauliflower – 80% of dv vitamin c, 10% of dv vitamin b6, 2% of dv calcium
Peas – 5 gms of protein , 8.8 gms of dietary fibre

Nutritional benefits.

Cauliflower peas masala curry can offer several benefits during pregnancy:

Nutrient-rich: This curry is packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins (like vitamin C, K, and folate) and minerals (such as potassium and calcium) that support both the mother and baby’s health.

Fibre for digestion: The vegetables in this curry provide dietary fibre, which can help prevent or alleviate constipation, a common issue during pregnancy.

Protein source: Peas are a good source of plant-based protein, vital for tissue growth and repair during pregnancy.

Iron content: Cauliflower contains iron, which is important for preventing iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy.

Antioxidants: The curry’s ingredients, including cauliflower and peas, contain antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Hydration support: The water content in vegetables contributes to hydration, crucial during pregnancy when blood volume increases.

Immune system boost: The vitamins and minerals in this curry, especially vitamin C, support a healthy immune system, helping to fend off infections and illnesses.

Folate for foetal development: Folate, found in cauliflower and peas, is crucial for preventing neural tube defects in the developing foetus.

Gestational diabetes management: The fibre and balanced nutritional content in this curry may help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of gestational diabetes.

Taste and satisfaction: A well-prepared cauliflower peas masala curry can satisfy pregnancy cravings and provide a flavorful, comforting meal.

Customizable: You can adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste and nutritional preferences during pregnancy.

Remember to ensure that your overall diet during pregnancy is balanced and meets your specific nutritional needs. It’s a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to discuss your dietary choices and address any specific dietary considerations or restrictions during pregnancy.

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.