Week 30: Your Baby is the Size of a Cabbage
You may experience more intense Braxton Hicks contractions. Fatigue is significant as your body works hard to support the growing baby. Mood swings may return, and you might feel anxious about the upcoming birth.
Your baby at week 30
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Size of a Cabbage
Baby Development
The baby's red blood cell production has shifted entirely from the spleen to the bone marrow. The baby is gaining about 200 grams per week now. The lanugo is continuing to disappear as body fat increases. The baby's brain is forming grooves and folds (gyri and sulci), greatly increasing the brain's surface area and processing capacity.
Week 30 Highlight: Your baby's brain is developing deep grooves and folds, dramatically increasing its processing power!
Common Symptoms
Tips for Week 30
Attend all antenatal appointments - monitoring is crucial in the third trimester.
Practice labour positions and breathing techniques.
Prepare frozen meals for after the baby arrives.
Discuss pain relief options for labour with your healthcare provider.
South Africa Specific Info
In South Africa, pain relief options during labour include Entonox (gas and air), pethidine injections, and epidurals (in hospitals with anaesthetic services). Epidurals are widely available in private hospitals but may have limited availability in some public hospitals. Discuss your preferences early with your healthcare team.
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Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
Due Date Calculator SA Editorial Team
Our content is reviewed by healthcare professionals familiar with South African maternal health practices. We combine evidence-based medical information with local knowledge to support South African mums throughout their pregnancy journey. Our team includes contributors with backgrounds in midwifery, obstetrics, and maternal health education.
Last reviewed: February 2026