Hello Little One

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Day 229 of 280, third trimester

You are 32 weeks and 5 days

To get used to the fact that your newborn will arrive very soon, start focusing on life after the birth.

51 days until your due date

Friends and family may start talking about what will happen after the birth and what having a baby will be like for you. If this is your first baby, you probably can't really picture being a mom, and even if you've done it before, you've never had this particular second or third child. You know life will go on, but it can be hard to see past labor to the reality of life with a newborn.

Keep talking to those close to you about how you feel, whether excited, scared, or unprepared (usually all three in quick succession). Talk about what you think or hope life will be like after the birth: when grandparents and other key people will visit, and whether you'd like a christening or naming party, or neither. This can help you get used to the idea that you're not just pregnant, but that a baby is coming.

Ask a Doctor

How will I benefit from going to prenatal classes?

You'll be able to share information, ideas, fears, and concerns about childbirth in a comfortable setting, and to discuss and decide on things that affect how you give birth. You'll also meet other parents-to-be, and friendships formed at classes often continue after the birth as you support each other as new parents. Most classes cover:

  • Tried-and-tested labor techniques, such as breathing through the pain, massage, suitable food and drink, and positive visualization exercises.
  • Pain-relief options and a range of natural alternatives.
  • How to present (and stick to) your birth plan.
  • The practical and emotional support a birth partner can offer.
  • What to pack for a hospital or home birth.

You'll also learn how to prepare for the birth, what to expect in the first few days, and how to help healing afterward, plus tips on newborn care, including diaper changing, bathing, and getting breastfeeding established.

As a matter of fact

First babies take longer

In a first birth, the cervix dilates by about 0.5 cm an hour, compared with 1.5 cm an hour for later babies. First-time moms push for around an hour, compared with about half an hour for a second baby.

Explainer

Friendships from prenatal classes

Prenatal classes are a great chance to swap ideas and information with people in the same position as you, and long-term friendships often start there.

Appointments and key dates around now

  • RSV vaccineFrom 28 weeks

Read the full 32 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.