Your baby at 31 weeks
Your baby's lungs are developing rapidly, but your baby would not be fully able to breathe on their own until about 36 weeks.
You at 31 weeks
Your midwife and doctors will offer to check your blood pressure at every appointment. This is because high blood pressure can be harmful for you and your baby, and can be an early sign of pre-eclampsia.
Find out about the risks of high blood pressure (hypertension) and pregnancy. Other signs of pre-eclampsia include a bad headache, vision problems and pain below your ribs.
Knowing what to expect in the first few days of breastfeeding can help to get breastfeeding off to a good start.
Things to think about
- where to give birth: the options, including epidural
Start4Life has more about you and your baby at 31 weeks pregnant.
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Video: How can I sleep comfortably with my bump?
In this video, a midwife explains the various ways pregnant mothers can get more comfortable at night.
Media review due: 25 January 2026