Stages of Pregnancy Week by Week

Pregnancy Week 30

Your baby is growing faster than ever now--learn all about his development in week 30. Also get tips on avoiding emotional overeating and protecting your job after the baby is born.

  • Share:

Watch Your Baby's Growth

Sleep Cycles: Weeks 26 to 30 of Pregnancy
Sleep Cycles: Weeks 26 to 30 of Pregnancy

At this point, your baby is awake and asleep at very specific times of the day. Find out about his sleep patterns, and what they mean.

Your Changing Body

As your skin expands to accommodate baby, stretch marks aren't always the only side effect. An estimated 20 percent of expectant moms also experience itchy skin. Your doctor may recommend antihistamines or ointments, but a calming lotion can also provide relief.

Your Developing Baby

From this point on your baby will gain about a half pound each week. All that baby weight is for more than filling out his chubby cheeks. Now that all of his major body systems are in place and functioning, he needs padding to protect and insulate his organs. His built-up fat tissue will also help him regulate his body temperature after birth.

Tip of the Week

If you tap on your belly, your baby may kick or poke back at the same spot you touched. So neat -- you can play with your baby well before he's born!

pregnant couple shopping for baby gear

Your Week 30 To-Do List

1. Buy a car seat and other must-have gear.

Week 30

An Inside Look

Take a unique look at Baby's development inside the womb this week.

Pregnant woman crossing off the days until the birth

Your Pregnancy Calendar

Organize your doctor's appointments, save your ultrasound photos, and more--all in one place!

Everything in Pregnancy Week 30

More About Your Pregnancy in Week 30

Your Baby

Your Body

  • Bellyaches

    Find out why you may be feeling some abdominal discomfort in the next few weeks.

  • The Role of a Doula

    Read up on labor coaches and why working with one might make you more comfortable during labor.

  • Preeclampsia

    Nearly 10 percent of expecting moms develop preeclampsia late in their third trimester. Find out the symptoms of preeclampsia and how i...

  • Pain-Free Guide: The Fit Girl's Guide to Common Exercise Pains

    You've worked hard to get in shape, but suddenly you're feeling more achy than athletic. Prepare for a speedy recovery with our drug-fr...

Your Self

Diet & Exercise

Q & A