At 35 weeks, expectant moms have just passed the halfway point and are still on the home stretch to the big day. At this stage, around 8.5 months, the changes in the body get more dramatic and the baby is busy completing the development of his lungs, kidneys and other essential organs.
During the pregnancy, women have weight on the pelvis, fatigue and frequent urination. The knowledge of physical changes on a daily basis will help to alleviate stress and put a lot less strain on the labor preparation. This is a comprehensive overview of baby size, weekly fetal development, routine prenatal tests, and straightforward measures to take before the baby is born.
Fetal Size: How Big Is Your Baby at 35 Weeks?
Your baby’s weight at 35 weeks pregnant is around 5.2 to 5.5 pounds (2.4 to 2.5 kg). They are about 18 to 18.5 inches from head to heel.
There’s very little space in your uterus right now. You might get fewer sharp jabs and kicks. Instead you'll feel slow rolls, heavy stretches and sudden wiggles as your baby changes position.
What Key Organ Systems Are Developing Right Now?
Your baby is spending these final weeks gaining weight and putting finishing touches on critical organs:
- Functioning Kidneys & Liver: Kidneys are fully functional and liver can eliminate waste.
- Lungs Ready for Air: Surfactant is being produced by your baby's lungs, a protective substance that keeps air sacs open and allows baby to breathe immediately after birth.
- The disappearance of lanugo: This fine downy body hair (lanugo) and some of the vernix (the white covering on the skin) are now disappearing.
- Rapid Fat Build-Up: Your baby's fat layers are filling out quickly, and smoothing your skin and aiding in thermoregulation, or body temperature regulation. Preparing your own body with optimal nutrients by incorporating food to increase breast milk into your diet plan can support your energy and post-birth recovery.
Common Body Changes & Physical Symptoms at 35 Weeks
Carrying an extra 25+ pounds puts direct physical strain on your joints, back, and pelvis.
Constantly Running to the Bathroom
As your baby settles lower toward your pelvis, their head rests right against your bladder. You will feel the urge to pee far more often, especially at night. Sneezing or laughing might cause minor bladder leaks, which is completely normal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
Out of Breath from Minor Walking
Your womb reaches just under your ribcage at this stage, squishing your diaphragm. Sitting tall gives your lungs extra room to breathe. Knowing practical guidelines like how long can breast milk last outside the fridge is another helpful piece of knowledge to read up on while resting during these breathless moments.
Practice Contractions (Braxton Hicks)
Does your belly seem to clench up out of nowhere? Those are Braxton Hicks contractions. Those are only warm-ups to get your uterus ready for delivery. In contrast to real labor contractions, false labor tightening are erratic, do not become stronger with time and normally go away when you drink a glass of water or change positions.
Essential Medical Checks at 35 Weeks
Your prenatal doctor appointments will likely switch to once every week or two from here on out.
The Group B Strep (GBS) Swab Test
A Group B Strep test is performed quickly at 35-37 weeks by your health care provider. A bacterium that is normally found in the vagina, but which may be transmitted to a baby at birth. If you have a positive swab test, you will be given IV antibiotics throughout the labor to keep your baby safe.
To measure blood pressure / excess fluid retention.
It is normal for your feet and ankles to swell slightly towards the end of pregnancy. If she notices that you have suddenly started to have swelling in your face or hands, along with severe headaches or a blurred view, however, let her know immediately.
Practical Action Steps to Take This Week
Setting up your environment now takes away huge amounts of stress when labor starts.
- Pack the Hospital Bag: Put your necessities right by the door. Pack loose clothing, chargers for phones, baby clothes and medical insurance or ID cards.
- Install the rear-facing car seat: Now install the rear facing car seat. A certified technician will ensure that your baby is safe on the way home from the hospital.
- Do Pelvic Floor Exercises: Kegel exercises every day to maintain healthy pelvic muscles. This helps to facilitate birth and promotes healing after giving birth.
- Finalize Your Birth & Feeding Plan: Discuss your choices for labor movement and pain management with your care team. This is also a great time to learn about post-birth options like how to thaw frozen breast milk so you feel fully prepared for feeding.
- Prep Postpartum Nutrition & Care: Stock your freezer with easy, cook-ahead meals. Knowing about topics like food to increase breast milk will also help smooth your transition into nursing.
Conclusion
At week 35 pregnancy, you are just about to cross the finish line. Your child's organs are now fully developed and fat layers are beginning to form and your primary focus is to recuperate, monitor for any warning signs and complete your hospital preparations.
Track daily movements, complete your GBS screening and pack bags early. This will help you get a lot of rest and build up your strength and confidence for the day of delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe for a baby to be born at 35 weeks?
Baby born at 35 weeks is late preterm The majority are well but a small number will require close monitoring and some time in the special care nursery for warmth and/or tube/special feeding.
What's the difference between Braxton Hicks and actual labor?
When Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, mild and fade when you move around or drink water, it's called a Braxton Hicks. As the contractions get underway, they become more intense, longer and closer together, regardless of your position.
How many months along is 35 weeks of pregnancy?
You are pregnant by 8 months and three weeks. Your 9th month starts on the 36th week.
When should I see a doctor immediately?
If you experience vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, severe stomach pain, severe headaches or decreased baby movement, contact your care team immediately.
How Many Movements Do Babies Make at 35 Weeks?
In a two-hour period on your side, you should feel at least 10 separate movements. However, if at any time you notice a sudden fall in baby's activity, never hesitate to get in touch with your doc.
What can I do to get a better night's sleep at 35 weeks?
Rest on the side, preferably the left, to allow for better blood circulation to the baby. Use a body pillow to support and cushion the joints on your hips by placing it between your knees and your belly.
What do you think the reason is for awful heartburn at 35 weeks?
The valve at the top of your stomach is relaxed during pregnancy, which allows stomach acid to flow back into your throat. Your enlarging womb also presses on your belly. Eating smaller meals throughout the day helps stop acid build-up.
How can I reduce swelling in my feet and legs?
When you sit down, elevate your feet above your heart. Drink lots of water. Wear compression socks. Don’t stand in one spot too long.
Is clear fluid leakage normal at week 35 pregnancy?
Thin white discharge is standard late in pregnancy. However, if you feel a continuous trickle or a sudden gush of clear water, your amniotic sac may have ruptured. Contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Do you have to have the nursery fully decorated at 35 weeks?
Nope. For day one, your baby really only needs a safe bassinet or crib, clean sheets, diapers and basic clothing. Not to worry about room decorations yet. You can do that after you get home and settled in.
