How Far Along?: 30 weeks! I can't even believe I'm in the 30's. It's getting so real now!
Weight Gain: So far I've gained about 13-15 lbs I think.
Gender?: BOY! I can't wait to meet him! I really wonder who he will look like.
How Big is Baby?: He's the size of a zucchini and is weighing in at 2.9 lbs and 15.7 inches long. He should have a good amount of hair on his head and eyes that open wide to begin to distinguish what he sees around him. He's also growing fingernails and continuing to practice grabbing by holding his feet or umbilical cord.
His skin also looks smoother at 30 weeks of pregnancy, thanks to an increase in fat stores underneath. Incredibly, human fetuses accumulate more fat than any other mammal. All that fat serves an important purpose: It helps to regulate his body temperature, both now and after birth. It also serves as an important energy store that supports the immense needs of the brain—which churns through about 20 percent of all of the calories we consume.
Now that he's developed more fat stores, he's starting to shed lanugo—the soft, down-like hair that enveloped the body for the last few weeks. Lanugo helps to keep a baby warm and protects their sensitive developing skin with the help of vernix (a waxy substance covering the body, which is also disappearing about now). Lanugo also helps baby to grow rapidly by sending signals to their brain when it moves. As lanugo disappears in this final trimester, his growth will slow.
Symptoms: Lately I've just been so tired emotionally. It could have something to do with having been on a trip to the states. I've also been having some pretty intense heartburn and my gut has been flaring SO bad every since I got to California. I'm on my journey back home today so hoping it all calms down once I'm back home and not stressed as much.
Any Food Cravings?: Ice cream with milk in a bowl...I know sounds weird but it's basically a milkshake. That and protein!
Sleep: I've been sleeping okay, aside from having to get up all the time to go to the bathroom. I've actually been getting up at a decent hour everyday too which is nice. I definitely want to work on it more when I get home.
Stretch Marks?: No new ones that I've noticed. But my old ones are just more pronounced and noticeable for sure!
Maternity Clothes?: Yes! I have a few basics that I bought. I have some leggings, tank tops, tees, and biker shorts. I also mix in my normal clothes too so I don't spend too much money on clothes I won't ever wear again (I think lol).
Wedding Ring On or Off?: On!
What Do You Miss the Most?: Being comfortable and not having a flared gut or back pain.
What Are You Most Excited For This Next Week?: Getting to see him at my growth ultrasound and being home!
Labor Signs?: Nope!
Favorite Memory From Last Week?: Getting to see family and friends in the states. It was a nice little dose of the USA that I've been craving!
