Your baby this week
Your baby is starting to turn head-down — getting ready for the big day! All five senses are working now — your baby can see, hear, taste, smell, and feel touch. The eyes can even adjust to light and dark. All five layers of the brain's cortex are in place, and your baby is processing everything around it. When you put your hand on your belly, your baby can feel your warmth. Your baby already knows you.
Your body this week
Colostrum may leak more frequently. Braxton Hicks are preparing your uterus for labour. Back and hip pain may peak. Heartburn can be fierce — eat small meals and don't lie down right after eating. You may feel baby hiccups as little rhythmic jumps. The nesting instinct may be starting to kick in — that sudden urge to clean and organize everything.
Common symptoms this week
Every pregnancy is different — you may notice some of these, all of them, or none at all. None of this is a checklist to worry over.
- Leaking colostrum
- Braxton Hicks
- Peaking back and hip pain
- Fierce heartburn
- Baby hiccups
- Nesting urges
This week’s checklist
- Ask your doctor about baby's position — head down is ideal
- Hospital bag should be nearly packed
- Stock up on postpartum supplies — pads, comfortable underwear, nursing bras
- Ask your doctor about safe heartburn remedies
- Practice labour breathing techniques daily
What’s normal this week
Most of what you’re feeling is your body doing exactly what it should — the everyday symptoms don’t need a call. The signs below are the rare exceptions: noticing one doesn’t mean something’s wrong, just that it’s worth a quick check.
When to call your doctor
- Regular or painful contractions (more than 4-6 per hour)
- Leaking fluid that isn't urine
- Intense pelvic pressure
This guide offers general information for a typical pregnancy and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always follow your doctor or midwife’s guidance for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How big is my baby at 31 weeks pregnant?
At 31 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a coconut.
What are common symptoms at 31 weeks pregnant?
Common symptoms around 31 weeks pregnant include leaking colostrum, braxton Hicks, peaking back and hip pain, fierce heartburn, baby hiccups, nesting urges. Every pregnancy is different — you may notice some of these, all of them, or none at all.
What is developing at 31 weeks pregnant?
Your baby is starting to turn head-down — getting ready for the big day! All five senses are working now — your baby can see, hear, taste, smell, and feel touch.
When should I call my doctor at 31 weeks pregnant?
Call your doctor at 31 weeks if you notice regular or painful contractions (more than 4-6 per hour), leaking fluid that isn't urine, intense pelvic pressure.
Last updated June 2026
References
Ovyacare’s guidance is written in-house and aligned with leading medical authorities: