Day 220 of 280, third trimester
You are 31 weeks and 3 days
Jolts and bumps are part of pregnancy, and your baby probably won't even notice them.
60 days until your due date
Your belly keeps growing, and you may notice it swaying from side to side as you walk. It's easy to forget how much bigger you are, and you may find yourself trying to squeeze through gaps, or between restaurant tables and chairs, that you used to fit through, and getting a bit stuck! If your belly gets bumped now and then, don't worry: your baby is safely cushioned by the amniotic fluid. Soon you'll be back to your normal shape, or close to it, and it will feel strange to remember having to allow for a belly.
Focus on
Your health: Heart palpitations
A run of fast heartbeats, an occasional missed beat, or simply being very aware of your heartbeat are called palpitations, and they're common in late pregnancy. They're usually nothing to worry about, caused by changes in your circulation plus a big belly, although stress and anxiety can play a part. But if they come with chest pain or breathlessness, or seem to be happening more often, tell your doctor.
Ask a Mum
I'm finding it harder to focus at work. How can I get through the next few weeks?
As your baby, and you, get bigger, you may have less energy and a shorter attention span. That's normal but can be a problem at work. Take regular breaks to put your feet up or close your eyes, drink enough (dehydration affects performance), and eat healthy snacks little and often. Iron-rich foods such as dried fruit are especially important, because low iron makes you tire easily.
Carry a small notebook and jot down everything you need to remember, however trivial, to beat memory lapses and stay focused. Start each day with a to-do list in order of priority, and get enough sleep to give yourself a chance of feeling refreshed.
Explainer
Keep a notebook
Keep a notebook handy for everything from today's tasks to what to say on a call or cover in a letter or email.
Appointments and key dates around now
- Whooping cough vaccineUsually around 20 weeks, best before 32 weeks
- RSV vaccineFrom 28 weeks
Read the full 31 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.