Event - Baby's bones fully formed

By 33 weeks, your baby's bones have developed to the point where they are fully formed, meaning they have achieved the basic structure needed for life outside the womb. However, they remain softer and more flexible than an adult's bones, especially the skull, which needs to remain somewhat pliable for birth.

The full formation of bones is a crucial step in your baby's overall development, allowing for proper support of the body, protection of internal organs, and the ability to store essential minerals. It also means your baby is getting ready for the physical demands of birth and life outside the uterus.

Yes, after birth, your baby's bones will continue to grow and harden. The fontanelles (soft spots on the baby's skull) will gradually close over the first 18 months of life. Bone density will increase, and as your child grows, so will the length and width of their bones.

Continuing to consume adequate amounts of calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus through your diet supports fetal bone health. These nutrients are crucial for bone growth and development, and your prenatal vitamin supplement should cover the necessary amounts.

This stage shouldn't significantly change your pregnancy experience, but it's a reminder of the importance of nutrition and prenatal care to support your baby's development. You might find that your healthcare provider discusses birth preparation more intensively around this time, considering the baby's growth and development milestones.

As your baby is growing and taking up more space, you may experience increased discomfort, breathlessness, and the need to urinate more frequently. Continue regular prenatal visits to monitor your health and your baby's progress. It's also a good time to finalize birth preparations, such as completing your birth plan and ensuring your hospital bag is packed.