Week 33 Pregnancy
You are 33 weeks pregnant and in your third trimester. Your baby is about the size of a pineapple. This week's key development: Putting on Weight. NHS note: Routine care.
Baby's Development
Your baby is about the size of a pineapple.
Putting on Weight — Your baby is gaining around half a pound per week. The bones are hardening except for the skull, which remains flexible to ease the journey through the birth canal. You may be sleeping lightly and waking often — your body is preparing for the newborn nights ahead.
Your Symptoms
- Insomnia
- Overheating
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
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 care. Midwife checks baby's growth and your well-being.
Practical Advice for Week 33
Nutrition
- Continue vitamin D daily.
- Your baby is gaining about half a pound per week — eat well to fuel this growth.
- Include zinc and selenium (Brazil nuts, shellfish, wholegrains) for immune support.
- If appetite decreases because your stomach is compressed, eat little and often.
Exercise
- Gentle exercise helps with insomnia and mood.
- If carpal tunnel symptoms affect your wrists, specific stretches can help.
- Walking in the fresh air is great for both physical and mental wellbeing.
- Practise breathing and relaxation techniques for labour.
Wellbeing
- Insomnia is very common in the third trimester — try a warm bath and no screens before bed.
- Overheating at night — keep your bedroom cool and use layers you can remove.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome can worsen — wrist splints worn at night can provide relief.
- If you're struggling with anxiety about birth, hypnobirthing classes can be wonderfully calming.
Preparation
- Routine midwife care — growth, position, and wellbeing check.
- Finalise your hospital bag — include snacks, phone charger, and music.
- Write down your birth partner's contact details for the hospital.
- Research what to expect in the first 24 hours after birth.
Tip of the Week
Try a warm bath or reading before bed to help with pregnancy insomnia.
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