Week 32 Pregnancy
You are 32 weeks pregnant and in your third trimester. Your baby is about the size of a squash. This week's key development: Practising for the Outside. NHS note: Routine check.
Baby's Development
Your baby is about the size of a squash.
Practising for the Outside — Your baby is practising all the skills they'll need at birth — sucking, swallowing, and breathing. Toenails and fingernails have now reached the tips of the digits. Many babies settle into a head-down position around now, though there's still time to turn.
Your Symptoms
- Increased Braxton Hicks
- Heartburn
- Lower back pain
Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.
NHS Appointments
Routine check. Midwife will discuss your birth preferences and place of birth.
Practical Advice for Week 32
Nutrition
- Continue vitamin D daily.
- Your baby is practising swallowing — everything you eat flavours the amniotic fluid.
- Eat foods rich in B vitamins (wholegrains, eggs, bananas) for energy and nerve function.
- If heartburn is persistent, avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime.
Exercise
- Walking and swimming remain the safest exercises.
- Practice labour positions — squatting, all-fours, and using the birth ball.
- Breathing exercises learned in antenatal classes are worth practising daily.
- If you're in a pool, gentle aqua aerobics keeps you fit without strain.
Wellbeing
- Braxton Hicks may become more noticeable — they're preparation, not labour.
- Lower back pain is very common now — heat packs and gentle massage help.
- Your midwife will discuss your birth preferences — there's no wrong answer.
- If you're having a caesarean, your team will explain the process in detail.
Preparation
- Discuss birth preferences and place of birth with your midwife.
- If baby is breech, your midwife may discuss ECV (external cephalic version) to turn them.
- Ensure your MATB1 form has been provided to your employer.
- Stock up on nappies (newborn size) and cotton wool.
Tip of the Week
If the baby is breech, your midwife might discuss ways to encourage them to turn.
Track Your Due Date
Keep track of your pregnancy milestones, NHS scans, and countdown to your due date.
Go to TrackerNHS Resources
Find trusted information on financial support, antenatal classes, and local maternity services.
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