Nerdy Weekly Baby Size: Week 33

This week for the Nerdy Weekly Baby series!

Congratulations! You’re now 33 weeks pregnant, and your baby is growing stronger and more developed every day. At this point, your little one is about the length of Thor’s Hammer, Mjolnir, measuring around 17.2 inches long and weighing in at about 4.2 pounds. That’s quite a jump from just a few weeks ago, when your baby was the size of a Barbasol can!

But what exactly is happening with your baby’s growth and development at this stage? Let’s take a closer look.

Table of Contents

Gestational size and weight

At 33 weeks, your baby is continuing to put on weight, which will help them stay warm and healthy after birth. Their organs and bones are also becoming stronger, and their lungs are maturing in preparation for breathing air.

Interestingly, your baby’s head is likely to be the same circumference as their abdomen at this stage. This is because your baby’s brain is growing rapidly and will continue to do so for several years after birth.

What to expect at 33 weeks pregnant

As your baby continues to grow, you may be experiencing some discomforts and symptoms associated with pregnancy. Here are some things to look out for at 33 weeks pregnant:

Braxton Hicks contractions: You may start to experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions that help your body prepare for labor. These contractions are usually mild and irregular, and they should not be painful. However, if you experience frequent, regular contractions, you should contact your healthcare provider.
Shortness of breath: As your baby grows, they may start to push up against your diaphragm, making it harder to breathe. Try to take deep breaths and avoid slouching or lying on your back.
Swelling: It’s common to experience swelling in your feet, ankles, and hands at this stage of pregnancy. To reduce swelling, try to stay hydrated, elevate your feet, and avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time.
Fatigue: You may be feeling more tired than usual, especially as your baby’s movements become more frequent and noticeable. Be sure to rest as much as possible and ask for help when you need it.

At 33 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing and developing quickly. They’re now the size of a durian fruit and weigh around 4.2 pounds. As you approach the end of your pregnancy, it’s important to pay attention to any symptoms or discomforts you may be experiencing and to communicate with your healthcare provider. Enjoy this exciting time as you prepare for the arrival of your little one!