In the ninth month: time for a perineal massage

How is your baby growing?

At 33 weeks of pregnancy, most babies have turned. The head is then facing downwards and is already sliding deeper into the pelvis. Your baby continues to sleep deeply, the brain continues to develop and fat reserves are being built up. It opens and closes its eyes from time to time, because your baby's pupils can now react to differences in light and dark. 

How is your belly growing?

Because your baby has already slipped down a little, you will probably notice that your breathing has become easier, as there is now less pressure on your diaphragm. Instead, you may feel a pulling sensation in your belly area. This pulling is probably caused by preparatory contractions or the first descent contractions.  

Your belly continues to grow steadily, resulting in less mobility. So far, so good. However, if you experience pain in your upper abdomen at 33 weeks of pregnancy, see your gynecologist. It could be a problem with your bile or high blood pressure (preeclampsia), which can be dangerous. Both need to be diagnosed and treated appropriately.  

You have probably heard of perineal tears. The perineum is the area between the vagina and the anus. This area can tear if it is stretched too much during childbirth, e.g. because the baby is too big or the birth is too fast.  

Now, at 33 weeks of pregnancy, is the right time to prepare the perineum for the strain. This can be done with a so-called perineal massage.

What makes you grow as a family?

Have you already prepared everything for your baby? Slowly but surely, the need to prepare your nest is becoming more and more urgent. No matter how cute and sweet your baby furniture is, it's good to think practically.  

Mom Anna has some advice for you:

If your home has two floors or is spacious: create a second diaper changing area where you spend most of your time. All you need to do is equip it with the essentials (diapers, wet wipes, etc.), but this way you won't have to go up and down the stairs so often, which is not good for you, especially in the first few weeks, while your baby has no objection to where you change them.