Welcome to Week 30, mami. You're stepping into a new chapter—the kind of moment that makes you pause, place a hand on your belly, and whisper, "Wow, we're really doing this."

At 30 weeks, you're in the final stretch of the third trimester, and your baby is officially closer to being in your arms than ever before. There's excitement in the air, but also questions, aches, and waves of emotion that sometimes catch you off guard. Maybe you're feeling more connected than ever—or maybe you're feeling tired, overwhelmed, or even unprepared. That's all okay. Every emotion belongs here.

This week is a sacred threshold: your body is working overtime, your baby is learning new tricks inside the womb, and your mind might be racing with birth plans, nursery lists, or that one random craving you just have to satisfy. But underneath it all is something deeper: your transformation into mamá. Let's talk about what's happening right now—and how you can care for yourself through it all.

🌿 My Baby: Growing Stronger, Softer, and Ready to Meet You

Your baby is now around 15.5 inches long—roughly the size of a butternut squash—and weighs just over 3 pounds. That's a big leap from where you started! Right now, their little body is building strength and softness all at once. Subcutaneous fat is forming under the skin, giving them that signature baby chubbiness that makes you want to kiss every inch.

At this stage, their brain is maturing rapidly, forming neural connections at lightning speed. They're also practicing breathing by inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, prepping those lungs for life outside. Their eyelids can open and close, and though they'll still keep them shut most of the time, your baby can now sense light and dark. Shine a flashlight near your belly and they might even respond with a wiggle or a kick—how sweet is that?

One beautiful change this week is the gradual shedding of lanugo—the fine, downy hair that once covered their whole body. It served as insulation in the earlier months but now, with body fat increasing, your baby doesn't need it as much. These shifts are subtle, but meaningful. They're preparing for life outside the womb, and you're preparing to hold them close.

💃🏽 My Body: From Foggy Brains to Sacred Stretch Marks

Let's talk about your body, because it's doing everything right now. You might feel more tired, a little off-balance, and if you're honest, a bit foggy in the brain. This is totally normal. "Pregnancy brain" is real—it's a result of hormonal shifts, disrupted sleep, and the intense mental load of prepping for baby. It doesn't mean you're losing it. It just means your brain is rerouting energy to grow and protect your little one.

Here's what else might be showing up:

• Shortness of breath from your growing uterus pressing on your diaphragm
• Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions and totally normal
• Swelling in your feet and hands, especially if you've been on your feet a lot
• Leaky breasts as your body starts producing colostrum (baby's first milk)

And let's talk about stretch marks for a moment. Whether they're faint, bold, or not showing up yet—they're love lines. Ancestral tattoos, proof that your body is housing life. Moisturize if it feels good, but know this: nothing needs to be "fixed." You are divine just as you are.

🩺 My Health: Pain Options, Birth Plans & Powerful Choices

Around this time, many mamas start asking, "How do I want to birth my baby?" And that question might feel big. Birth can be unpredictable, but you still have choices—and it's empowering to explore them early.

Let's break down the main options when it comes to labor pain management:

The best birth plan is one that leaves room for your instincts, medical reality, and emotional support. And speaking of support…

🤱🏽 What's a Doula—and Why You Might Want One

A doula is like having a sister, coach, and calm guide all in one. She doesn't deliver the baby, but she helps you feel seen, supported, and strong throughout labor—and sometimes even after birth.

Here's what doulas often offer:

• Pre-birth visits to talk through fears, wishes, and preferences
• Labor support, including breathing help, massage, and reassurance
• Postpartum care, like helping with nursing or adjusting to baby at home

Hospitals usually don't provide doulas—you'll need to hire one privately. But don't let that intimidate you. Ask your provider, midwife, or local mom groups. You might be surprised how many women in your circle have used a doula and can recommend someone amazing.

The key is chemistry. This person will be beside you during one of the most sacred moments of your life—you deserve someone who makes you feel powerful, held, and heard.

🚗 Tips & To-Do's: Car Seat 101 (Because Baby's First Ride Matters)

Choosing your baby's first car seat is one of the most important safety decisions you'll make—and also one of the most confusing. Let's make it simple:

No matter which you choose:

• Don't add extra padding. It can interfere with safety. Rolled-up blankets are safer and just as effective.
• Get your installation checked. Visit seatcheck.org to find certified techs nearby.
• Consider a second base if you'll be sharing vehicles.