Support and information from NCT
NCT offers reliable support and information about the various stages of pregnancy, week by week.
Your developing baby
Your baby’s bones are starting to harden in week 33 of pregnancy. Up to now they have consisted of a more flexible substance called cartilage.
The bones in their skull will remain soft and separated to make it easier for them to travel down the birth canal.
Perineal massage
Massaging the perineum - the area between the vagina and anus - in the last weeks of pregnancy has been shown to reduce the likelihood of tearing during birth, and of needing stitches or an episiotomy.
You can do it alone, or your partner can do it with or for you.
Visiting your maternity unit
If you are having your baby anywhere other than home, you should be able to go and see the place you choose before the big day arrives so that you know what to expect. Familiarising yourself with the booking in process and what happens when you are there, can be reassuring for both you and your partner. It will also help you make a plan for how you will get to the hospital or birth centre – remember, you won’t be able to drive once you are in labour so you will need to think about other arrangements.
Pelvic girdle pain
Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) includes pain anywhere from the lumbar spine/abdomen down to the thigh, either at the front or back.
The pain may range from a mild ache to severe pain which limits your daily activities. It can start at any time during pregnancy, labour or in the weeks after delivery. See your GP if you are experiencing symptoms, as getting diagnosed as early as possible can help to keep the pain to a minimum and avoid long-term discomfort.
Checklist
Have you met other mums-to-be in your area that you can share this experience with?
Check out what is happening at your local NCT branch.
Further information
NCT offers reliable support and information about the various stages of pregnancy, week by week. Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.
We also offer antenatal courses which are a great way to find out more about birth, labour and life with a new baby.
Make friends with other parents-to-be and new parents in your local area for support and friendship by seeing what NCT activities are happening nearby.
