31 Weeks Pregnant

At 31 weeks, your baby continues to open and close her eyes, practicing a blinking reflex that will protect and moisten them after birth. Fringed by lashes, her eyes are sensitive to light. However, other aspects of sight, such as seeing colors or focusing, won't form until after birth.

About three-quarters of pregnant women will develop a vertical stripe on their abdomens, running from the pubic bone up to the navel (and sometimes higher). This is the linea nigra (Latin for “black line”). Fair-skinned women are less likely to have it than darker-skinned women. After the birth of your baby, the brownish line will gradually fade and disappear.

Get in the habit of doing Kegel exercises. Kegels tone the vaginal muscles and those that support the uterus, bladder, and bowel.

Why? Regular Kegel exercises help with two common pregnancy problems: incontinence (leaking urine) and hemorrhoids. Later on, you can expect an easier labor and delivery, and faster recovery after the birth.

How? First, identify the pelvic floor muscles — these are the muscles you use to stop the flow of urine. Exercise by squeezing these muscles for 5-10 seconds. Relax, then repeat. Do 20 sets several times a day.