Week 31

My Baby's Development

By week 31, your baby is urinating approximately several cups of urine a day into the amniotic fluid. It is also swallowing amniotic fluid, which means the fluid is completely replaced several times a day. Excess fluid in the amniotic sac (polyhydramnios) may mean your baby isn't swallowing normally or that there is a gastrointestinal obstruction. Inadequate fluid in the amniotic sac (oligohydramnios) may mean your baby isn't urinating properly and could indicate a problem with the kidneys or urinary tract. Measuring of the levels of your amniotic fluid will be a part of the routine ultrasound.

My Body

Have you decided whether to breastfeed or formula feed your baby? Although it is recommended that breast milk is the best form of infant nutrition, the decision about how to feed your child is a personal one. Consult your health care provider or a lactation consultant if you need more information in making your choice.

The milk glands in your breasts have started to make colostrum by now. Colostrum is a pre-milk that provides your baby with calories and nutrients for its first few days before your milk comes in for breastfeeding. For some mum, the colostrum is thin and watery. For others, it is thick and yellowish. If your breasts are leaking colostrum, you may buy disposable or washable breast pads to protect your clothing.