What’s happening to the mother in week 29 to 32?

The body undergoes major changes during pregnancy, and it is common to notice that it is harder to move now. The uterus grows at the same time as the fetus and presses on surrounding organs, which, among other things, provides less space for the lungs. It is common to feel short of breath, even with small efforts.

Your lung capacity now starts to increase to ensure that both you and your baby receive enough oxygen. You can notice this by breathing faster. Your heart beats faster to compensate for the increase in your body’s needs.

Extra water in your body is not uncommon, and you may notice it most through swollen legs.

During pregnancy, the intestines are affected by hormones and there is less movement in the gastrointestinal system. This makes you more likely to get constipated. This can be helped with physical activity, more dietary fiber, and increased fluid intake.

Development of the foetus

By now, the foetus is about 40 cm long and usually weighs around 1,400 grams, but both length and weight can vary from pregnancy to pregnancy. 

From this point, the weight of the foetus can vary significantly from foetus to foetus. Growth is still rapid, but the weight will now be individual.  

During this period, the blood supply to the eyes continues to develop gradually. The vision of the newborn child will continue to mature after birth. Not long after birth, your newborn baby will already attempt to make eye contact with you and show an interest in faces.  

Content provided by The Norwegian Directorate of Health

The Norwegian Directorate of Health. Pregnancy week 30. [Internet]. Oslo: The Norwegian Directorate of Health; updated Thursday, December 4, 2025 [retrieved Thursday, December 4, 2025]. Available from: https://www.helsenorge.no/en/pregnancy-and-maternity-care-in-norway/pregnancy-week-by-week/week-30/