32 weeks pregnant
At 32 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a squash: around 42.4 cm head to heel and 1.70 kg. Baby is practising breathing movements, and toenails are visible.
Your baby at 32 weeks
Baby is practising breathing movements, and toenails are visible.
| Size | About the size of a squash |
|---|---|
| Length | 42.4 cm head to heel |
| Weight | 1.70 kg |
Your baby is practising breathing, sucking and swallowing, all skills needed after birth. Toenails and fingernails have grown, and the skin is becoming less see-through as fat builds up. Your baby weighs about 1.7 kg. Many babies have turned head-down by now, though there is still time for them to move.
How far along are you at 32 weeks?
At 32 weeks pregnant you are in the eighth month of your pregnancy and the third trimester. You have about 8 weeks to go until your due date. Doctors count pregnancy from the first day of your last period, not from conception, so at 32 weeks your baby has been growing for about 30 weeks. Not sure of your dates? Use our due date calculator.
Your body at 32 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 32 weeks
Every pregnancy is different, and you may have some, all or none of these.
- Braxton Hicks. More frequent as your womb gets ready.
- Leaking when you laugh or sneeze. Pressure on your bladder; keep up pelvic floor exercises.
- Heartburn. Your stomach is squashed by your womb.
- Feeling hot. Your metabolism is running fast.
- Backache. Rest and good posture help.
- Shortness of breath. Should ease when your baby drops lower.
Your checklist for week 32
- Have your follow-up scan if your placenta was low-lying earlier.
- Ask about the RSV vaccine; in the US it is given between 32 and 36 weeks in RSV season.
- Write down your birth preferences and share them with your doctor.
- Finish buying essentials: nappies, clothes, muslins, a car seat.
- Arrange who will look after older children when you go into labour.
Tip of the week: Know the warning signs
In the last weeks of pregnancy, some problems can develop quickly. Learn the warning signs: reduced movements, bleeding, fluid leaking, a severe headache, changes in your vision, sudden swelling of your face or hands, intense itching and regular contractions before 37 weeks. Our warning signs guide explains each one.
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 32 weeks
Contact your doctor, midwife or maternity unit the same day if you have:
- Your baby is moving less than usual.
- Signs of pre-eclampsia, bleeding, fluid leaking or regular contractions.
Call your doctor or hospital straight away for bleeding, severe pain, fluid leaking, severe headache or vision changes, or fewer baby movements.
Questions about 32 weeks pregnant
Should my baby be head down at 32 weeks?
Many babies are, but it isn't a concern yet if yours isn't. Most turn by 36 weeks. If your baby is still bottom-first (breech) at 36 weeks, your doctor will talk to you about your options.
What happens at the 32-week appointment?
Your doctor will usually check your blood pressure and urine, measure your bump, listen to your baby's heartbeat and ask about movements. If your placenta was low-lying, you may have a scan to see whether it has moved.
What if I leak urine when I sneeze?
Leaking a little urine when you cough, sneeze or laugh is very common in late pregnancy. Pelvic floor exercises help. If the leaking is constant or you can't tell whether it is urine or amniotic fluid, call your maternity unit to get checked.