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:
Birth Day: A Pediatrician Explores the Science, the History, and the Wonder of Childbirth
This was my favorite childbirth-related book of 2009. Here's a unique take on childbirth from a pediatrician's eyes focused on the results of childbirth. Dr. Sloan's writing is scientific, anecdotal, and hugely reverant toward the act of childbirth and the experience for both care provider, parent and child.