Open BabySteps App
Continue your parenting journey in the official BabySteps app. Open or download it below.
Discover what happens during week 33 of third trimester. Baby development, body changes, symptoms, and a weekly checklist.
This is the ideal time to start preparing for postpartum care and to connect with other expectant parents or join a pregnancy support group. Ensure you get stuff done this week so that you can rest in the last couple of weeks. But don’t let the stress of these decisions get to you, remember how exciting the baby’s arrival is going to be!
Third Trimester is a time of rapid change — for both you and your baby. Every pregnancy is unique, and the information below will help you understand what's happening and how to prepare for the weeks ahead.
Your uterus now sits high beneath the ribs, affecting posture, breathing, and digestion more noticeably. Muscles and ligaments continue stretching while the pelvis gradually loosens in preparation for labor. Physical recovery after activity may also take longer now.
You may feel increased pelvic heaviness, slower movement, or more frequent fatigue after routine tasks. Swelling, heartburn, or interrupted sleep can also become more intense around this stage.
Bones continue hardening, though the skull remains flexible to support birth. The immune system keeps developing, and the brain continues refining communication between nerves and muscles. Movements may feel slower but stronger as available space decreases.
Each week brings new things to prepare for. Here's what expecting parents during week 33 typically track in the BabySteps Companion app. Items are sorted by priority so you can focus on what matters most.
Set up a milk-bottle mocktail party! Practice assembling, filling, and mastering the art of bottle-feeding.
Time to ace the art of diapering! Grab a doll and master the diaper dance. Your baby's future bum will thank you.
Wrapping skills, activate! Learn the ancient art of swaddling for a snug and happy baby.
Get reminders, mark items as done, and never miss a step.
Get week-by-week guidance tailored to your role, health & history, symptoms, and stage of pregnancy.
Every pregnancy is different, but these are some of the most common sensations women report during week 33. Your experience is valid — whether you feel all of these or none at all.
Many pregnant women experience food aversions, where certain smells or tastes trigger feelings of nausea or disgust. This can be a result of hormonal changes and may vary from person to person. It's essential to listen to your body and avoid foods that make you feel unwell. If food aversions impact your ability to eat a balanced diet, consult your healthcare provider.
Read more
Heartburn, or acid indigestion, is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus on the stomach. To help relieve heartburn, eat small, frequent meals, avoid spicy or acidic foods, and sit up after eating. If heartburn persists or becomes severe, consult your healthcare provider for advice on safe treatment options during pregnancy.
Read more
Pregnancy can sometimes trigger skin rashes, such as pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP) or intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). These rashes are typically harmless but can be uncomfortable. If you notice a rash or skin changes during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance on managing symptoms.
Read more
Swelling of the labia, or outer vaginal lips, is common during pregnancy due to increased blood flow and pressure from the growing uterus. To relieve swelling and discomfort, wear loose, breathable clothing, use cold packs or sitz baths, and avoid prolonged standing or sitting. If swelling is severe or accompanied by other symptoms like pain or itching, consult your healthcare provider for evaluation and advice.
Read more
Breast tenderness is a common early sign of pregnancy, caused by hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the breasts. Wearing a supportive bra and applying warm compresses can help alleviate discomfort. If breast tenderness is severe or accompanied by unusual changes, consult your doctor for reassurance and advice.
Read more
Wrist pain, often associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, can occur during pregnancy due to fluid retention and swelling in the wrists and hands. To alleviate wrist pain, avoid repetitive motions that exacerbate symptoms, wear a wrist splint for support, and practice gentle stretching exercises. If wrist pain persists or worsens, consult your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance on managing symptoms safely during pregnancy.
Read moreAsk BabySteps AI and get guidance based on your pregnancy stage.
Learn more about what to expect with expert-guided videos and articles curated for this stage of your pregnancy.
Join thousands of parents using BabySteps to track symptoms, milestones, appointments, and baby development in one place.