Third Trimester

Pregnancy Week 31

Your baby is about the size of a coconut 🥥rapid weight gain begins.

Week 30Week 31 / 40Week 32
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Size comparison

Coconut

Length

41.1 cm

Weight

1.5 kg

Milestone

Rapid weight gain begins

About 9 weeks to go until your due date (week 40).

Baby's development at week 31

From now until birth, your baby will gain about 500g per week. The immune system is receiving maternal antibodies. The baby may be in head-down position already — feel for a hard round shape at the top of your bump.

Tour your birth centre or hospital labour ward if you haven't yet.

Common symptoms at week 31

Back painWaddlingShortness of breath (baby pressing on diaphragm)

Eat more of

  • Calcium & Vitamin K (broccoli, kale)
  • DHA-rich fish (sardines, salmon — cooked)
  • Iron-rich foods to prevent anaemia
  • Fibre-rich foods to combat constipation
  • Small frequent meals to ease heartburn
  • Dates (studies suggest easier labour)

Foods to avoid

  • Alcohol
  • Gas-producing foods (beans, cabbage) if uncomfortable
  • Very spicy food if causing heartburn
  • Raw/undercooked meat
  • High-sodium processed food
  • Large meals that worsen reflux

Medically reviewed by First OPD Medical Team. Last reviewed on .

Based on average milestones from World Health Organization (WHO), ACOG, NHS UK. Educational only — not a substitute for personalised medical advice.

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