Louise 
Pregnancy Week 31: What to Expect This Week
You’re in Pregnancy Week 31, and chances are you’re starting to feel a bit done with the whole “being pregnant” part. The bump is growing, the bladder is shrinking, and turning over in bed has become a three-point turn. The good news? You’re edging closer to the finish line—and baby is getting ready for life on the outside.
Let’s take a look at what’s going on this week.
Baby at Pregnancy Week 31
At Pregnancy Week 31, your baby is around 41cm long and weighs about 1.5kg. They’re continuing to grow steadily and getting more active by the day—even if the space is getting tight.
Here’s what’s happening developmentally:
Baby’s brain and nervous system are developing rapidly
They’re starting to regulate their own body temperature
Movements may feel slower but stronger—more rolls and stretches than kicks
Their lungs are developing surfactant—a key substance for breathing at birth
Many babies are now head down, though some are still wriggling around. There’s still time for them to settle into position, so no need to stress if yours isn’t quite there yet.
Your Symptoms at Pregnancy Week 31
By Pregnancy Week 31, you’re likely feeling heavier, slower, and maybe a bit more emotional (or ragey—we’re not judging).
Common symptoms include:
Shortness of breath
Heartburn and indigestion
Back pain or pelvic discomfort
Trouble sleeping
Braxton Hicks—more noticeable now
Leaky boobs or tingling nipples
What to Do at Pregnancy Week 31
This week is all about preparation and pacing yourself. You don’t need to have everything ready—but it helps to tick off a few key bits.
Honest Midwife Thoughts
Pregnancy Week 31 is that funny phase where birth still feels slightly in the distance—but your body is already prepping. And so should you! This is a great time to build confidence, learn about your birth options, and start thinking about what you need in those early newborn days.
There’s no right way to prepare—but we’re here to help you find your way, with zero judgement and plenty of real talk.
Feeling Ready? Join Us for a Class
At Pregnancy Week 32, it’s a great time to dive into:
