Fetal Size and Development at 30 Weeks
At 30 weeks, entering the seventh month of pregnancy, your baby is about the size of a small cabbage. The fetal weight is approximately 2.89 to 3.86 pounds (1.313 – 1.753 kg). Specifically:
- Crown-rump length: approximately 15.7 inches (39.9 cm)
- Femur length: approximately 2.2 inches (56 mm)
- Crown-heel length: approximately 15.7 inches (40cm)
Major organ systems in the 30-week fetus are formed and are continuing to develop. Your baby will gain about half a pound (230 grams) per week from now until week 35 to ensure proper organ development. Additionally, fat (which helps maintain warmth after birth) will develop, making your baby’s body fuller.
At 30 weeks, most of the baby’s organs have formed
Hiccups are common during the last trimester of pregnancy. Some studies suggest that hiccups in the 10 weeks before birth stimulate brain development. Babies also frequently suck, move their hands, frown, and grimace.
The eyes of the 30-week fetus are beginning to distinguish between light and dark, and the surroundings. During this time, babies may be less active. The auditory system is developed; they can react to loud noises. Their body and facial features are more defined; they can even turn their heads from side to side.
The bones of the 30-week fetus are stronger and contain more calcium. Therefore, the mother’s diet during this stage is very important. Calcium supplementation for pregnant women is 3 to 4 times higher than for a non-pregnant person. Some calcium-rich foods include prenatal milk, cheese, yogurt, almonds, small fish eaten whole (bones included), and leafy green vegetables.
If a baby is born at 30 weeks, it’s considered premature, but the baby still has a high chance of survival with specialized care. The survival rate after 30 weeks is as high as 98%.
Changes in the Mother’s Body at 30 Weeks
The 30-week fetus needs more space in the mother’s uterus, so the uterus expands under the ribs to create more room. A larger abdomen can sometimes cause a feeling of imbalance. Breasts also get larger; the breasts and the top of the abdomen are now very close together.
Some expectant mothers may develop rashes under their breasts; perspiration can make these rashes more prominent. Mothers can take cool showers and apply a thin layer of baby powder to prevent fungal infections. Occasional gas release when sitting down is due to the body naturally releasing air to reduce pressure on the legs. Mothers should relax, walk more, and avoid crowded places.
Mothers will gain weight along with the baby’s weight gain at 30 weeks. Water retention is one reason for weight gain. Pregnant mothers may gain about a pound (500g) per week. However, rapid, sudden weight gain, or severe headaches are abnormal symptoms and require a doctor’s visit.
At 30 weeks, a mother’s hair may become thicker, stop growing as rapidly, and shed less. Pregnancy hormones cause ligament laxity, making the knee joints looser. Ligament laxity also causes the mother’s feet to swell.
Blood sugar levels may increase, but don’t worry too much. Gestational diabetes can be managed with a proper diet and healthy lifestyle. It usually doesn’t affect mothers after delivery.
Anemia is another condition pregnant mothers should be aware of. Iron-deficiency anemia can lead to problems for the fetus. Expectant mothers should consult their doctor about a diet rich in iron or iron supplements, such as prenatal vitamins, for a healthy pregnancy.
A 30-week-old fetus takes up more space in the bladder, so expectant mothers will urinate more frequently. In addition to the above physical changes, expectant mothers may also experience mood swings and emotional instability.
Mothers need to pay attention to providing adequate nutrition for the 30-week fetus to grow.
Symptoms Mothers May Experience at 30 Weeks
At 30 weeks pregnant, mothers may experience the following symptoms:
- Fatigue: As the delivery date approaches, mothers feel increasingly tired. Therefore, mothers should choose a comfortable sleeping position and go to bed earlier than usual. Getting enough sleep helps improve energy levels.
- Difficulty Sleeping: Difficulty sleeping and vivid dreams may occur in some pregnant mothers. If sleep problems persist, see a doctor.
- Back Pain: Back pain usually worsens during the last trimester.
- Leg Cramps
- Mood Swings
- Larger Feet, Swelling in the Feet and Hands
- Heartburn, Acid Reflux, and Feeling of Heat in the Neck
- Hemorrhoids
- Constipation and Indigestion during Pregnancy
Is the 30-Week Fetus Head Down?
The 30-week fetus is usually head down if the baby is in a vertex presentation. The fetus will tend to descend lower into the mother’s pelvis in the next few weeks. The baby’s head will point down, with the back of the neck facing the mother’s abdomen. This is the natural, easy, and safe birthing position.
According to experts, the time it takes for each baby to turn head-down varies. This also depends on the number of pregnancies:
- First-time mothers: The fetus usually begins to turn head-down at weeks 34 or 35.
- Mothers with subsequent pregnancies: The fetus usually begins to turn head-down at weeks 36 or 37.
However, many cases show that the baby may show signs of turning head-down as early as week 28. To accurately determine if the 30-week fetus is head down, have an ultrasound. Mothers can also predict fetal head-down position by monitoring fetal movements and their location.
Doctor’s Advice and Necessary Tests
From 30 weeks pregnant until week 36, prenatal checkups should be scheduled every two weeks. After week 36, checkups should be weekly until delivery. The doctor will check blood pressure, urine, measure the abdominal circumference, weigh the mother, and ask about any symptoms she is experiencing.
The doctor will monitor fetal development by measuring the mother’s uterine size. At 30 weeks pregnant, mothers may experience shortness of breath. Mothers should talk to their doctor if shortness of breath is frequent.
Mothers should not use any sleeping pills without their doctor’s permission. No sleeping pills are safe for pregnant women.
For mothers with carpal tunnel syndrome, it can be alleviated by limiting repetitive hand movements, such as crafts or typing. Mothers can also use wrist splints to reduce pressure on the nerves. For more severe cases, see a doctor for treatment.
Don’t forget to eliminate the risk of Group B Streptococcus infection by undergoing testing. Mothers who have tested positive for Group B Streptococcus will receive antibiotic treatment during labor to keep the baby safe.
Things to Keep in Mind at 30 Weeks Pregnant
Some things to keep in mind at 30 weeks pregnant:
- Eat foods rich in starch, such as oatmeal and potatoes. Eat plenty of vegetables, lean meat, and limit sugar.
- Exercise regularly, such as walking for 30 minutes a day, practicing prenatal yoga, etc. Regular exercise can shorten labor.
- Supplement vitamins and minerals as directed by your doctor.
- Get enough rest: Pregnant mothers can sleep on their left side. If uncomfortable, use pillows for support.
- Share concerns and anxieties with your spouse, family, and friends to improve your mood.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you experience more than four contractions in an hour or any signs of premature labor, such as: a change in discharge, increased vaginal discharge, discharge becoming watery, mucousy, or bloody; abdominal pain or cramps like menstrual cramps.
- At 30 weeks, you can use fetal education apps, read good fetal education books, or play prenatal music during the last three months.
Sleeping on your left side is more comfortable at 30 weeks pregnant
Hopefully, the information above about the 30-week fetus from AVAKids has helped mothers better understand how to care for themselves at this time. All information from AVAKids is for informational purposes only and does not replace a doctor’s diagnosis. If you experience any unusual symptoms, see a doctor for examination and treatment.