Week 31: Time to think about getting enough calcium to ensure your own teeth and bones remain strong during pregnancy and beyond.
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You may notice more Braxton-Hicks contractions now. These painless tightenings of the uterine muscle help the muscle grow and strengthen for the work of labor.
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Exercise is still an important activity. If you're tired, switch to lighter exercise like walking, stretching and swimming.
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Getting at least 1000 mg of calcium is especially important now that baby's bones are hardening. In order for your own bones to stay strong, make sure you're eating enough calcium-rich foods and getting enough vitamin D.
Baby Center
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Try strengthening your pelvic floor by doing Kegel exercises while washing your hands after using the bathroom.
Mayo Clinic
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Have you thought about who you'll bring with you in labor to help you out? Continuous support by people who care about you can actually shorten the length of your labor and prevent complications.
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Saying daily affirmations during your pregnancy can help boost mental health and relax anxieties over labor and birth. "On the day I give birth, I will be joined in my work by many other women around the world".
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You are beautiful. The work you are doing is important. You are strong and powerful.
BirthWatch Recommends:
The Labor Progress Handbook: Early Interventions to Prevent and Treat Dystocia
If you're lucky enough to have someone very serious about physically supporting you in labor, or know a budding doula, give her this book! A concise, valuable handbook for helping identify a slowdown in labor and what exactly to do to get progress back on track.