30 weeks pregnant
At 30 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a large cucumber: around 39.9 cm head to heel and 1.32 kg. Bone marrow has taken over making red blood cells.
Your baby at 30 weeks
Bone marrow has taken over making red blood cells.
| Size | About the size of a large cucumber |
|---|---|
| Length | 39.9 cm head to heel |
| Weight | 1.32 kg |
Your baby's bone marrow has taken over making red blood cells. The fine lanugo hair covering the body is starting to fall out, and your baby is gaining weight quickly, now around 1.3 kg. The brain is growing fast and your baby may open and close its eyes in response to light. Movements may feel more like rolls and pushes than flutters.
How far along are you at 30 weeks?
At 30 weeks pregnant you are in the seventh month of your pregnancy and the third trimester. You have about 10 weeks to go until your due date. Doctors count pregnancy from the first day of your last period, not from conception, so at 30 weeks your baby has been growing for about 28 weeks. Not sure of your dates? Use our due date calculator.
Your body at 30 weeks
Breathlessness and practice contractions (Braxton Hicks) are common. Sleep on your side and get to know your baby's pattern of movements.
Common symptoms at 30 weeks
Every pregnancy is different, and you may have some, all or none of these.
- Tiredness. Your body is carrying a lot of extra weight.
- Mood swings. Worries about the birth are very common.
- Shortness of breath. Your womb is pushing up under your ribs.
- Clumsiness. Your centre of balance has shifted, so take care on stairs.
- Swollen feet. Rest with your feet up.
- Heartburn. Eat little and often.
Your checklist for week 30
- Learn about feeding your baby. Breastfeeding classes or videos help before the birth.
- Wash and organise baby clothes and blankets.
- If this is your first baby, you may have a check-up around 31 weeks.
- Read up on the signs of labour and premature labour.
- Plan help at home for the first weeks after birth.
Tip of the week: Getting ready to breastfeed
Breastfeeding is a skill you and your baby learn together. Learn how to help your baby latch on, how to tell they are getting enough milk and where to get help. The first milk, colostrum, is small in amount but rich in antibodies. Read our breastfeeding guide and ask your hospital about a lactation consultant.
For your partner
Third trimester. Time to learn the tools.
- Learn the warning signs and when to call
- Install the car seat
- Join an antenatal class together
When to call your doctor at 30 weeks
Contact your doctor, midwife or maternity unit the same day if you have:
- Sudden breathlessness, chest pain or coughing up blood. Call emergency services.
- Your baby is moving less, or signs of labour before 37 weeks.
Call your doctor or hospital straight away for bleeding, severe pain, fluid leaking, severe headache or vision changes, or fewer baby movements.
Questions about 30 weeks pregnant
Is it normal to feel breathless at 30 weeks?
Yes. Your growing womb pushes up against your diaphragm, and your body is working harder. Sit up straight and slow down. But sudden severe breathlessness, chest pain or a fast heartbeat can be a sign of a blood clot in the lungs and needs emergency help.
How big is my baby at 30 weeks?
Around 40 cm from head to heel and about 1.3 kg on average, roughly the size of a large cucumber. Babies vary, and your doctor checks growth by measuring your bump and, if needed, with a growth scan.
Is it normal to feel anxious about the birth?
Very normal. Learning about labour, going to antenatal classes and talking to your doctor about your options can help. If anxiety is constant or affecting your sleep and daily life, tell your doctor; support is available.