36 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect and Top Tips for You
You’re now 36 weeks pregnant, and your baby’s arrival is just around the corner! As you approach full term, your baby is nearly ready for the outside world, and your body is gearing up for labour. Let’s explore what’s happening this week and how to prepare.
Baby at 36 Weeks: Final Preparations
Your baby is now about the size of a bunch of kale, measuring around 47cm from head to heel and weighing approximately 2.7kg. Here’s what’s happening this week:
- Lung maturity: Baby’s lungs are nearly fully developed, though they’ll keep practising breathing movements.
- Positioning for birth: Most babies are head-down by now, but if not, your midwife may discuss options to help turn baby.
- Refining reflexes: Baby’s sucking, swallowing, and grasping reflexes are all well-developed.
- Gaining fat: Baby is continuing to build fat stores, making their skin smoother and body warmer.
- Movements: While space is tight, you’ll still feel wriggles, stretches, and smaller movements.
Your little one is almost ready to meet you, with just a few final touches left to complete.
Your Body: What to Expect at Week 36
As your baby gets ready for birth, you may notice new symptoms or changes in your body:
- Lightening: Baby may drop lower into your pelvis, which can ease pressure on your lungs but increase pelvic discomfort.
- Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions may feel more intense but remain irregular.
- Frequent urination: Baby’s position can add pressure to your bladder.
- Pelvic pain: Increased pressure in your pelvis can cause aches and discomfort.
- Nesting instincts: You might feel a burst of energy to clean and organise your home.
- Sleep challenges: Finding a comfortable position can be tricky, and you may wake more often during the night.
These are all signs that your body is preparing for the big day.
Top Tips for Week 36
Here are some practical ways to stay comfortable and prepare for labour:
- Rest and Recharge: Take breaks during the day to conserve energy for labour and delivery.
- Prepare Your Hospital Bag: Double-check that you have all the essentials packed for you, baby, and your birth partner.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps reduce swelling and supports your overall health.
- Track Baby’s Movements: Monitor your baby’s activity and contact your midwife if you notice any changes.
- Learn About Labour: Familiarise yourself with the stages of labour and signs to watch for, such as contractions and water breaking.
- Ease Pelvic Pressure: Use a birthing ball or try gentle stretches to relieve discomfort.
- Discuss Birth Preferences: Go over your birth plan with your midwife and ask any remaining questions.
- Take Care of Yourself: Treat yourself to a relaxing bath or prenatal massage to help you unwind.
Fun Fact: Baby’s Hair Is Growing
At 36 weeks, your baby might have a full head of hair – or just a few wisps! Hair texture and colour are already determined, but these can change after birth.
When to Call Your Doctor
Reach out to your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain.
- Heavy bleeding or unusual spotting.
- Decreased or no fetal movements over a day.
- Signs of labour, such as regular contractions, water breaking, or backache.
- Sudden swelling in your face, hands, or feet, which could indicate pre-eclampsia.
Your midwife or doctor is there to help you, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns.
Look Ahead: What’s Next?
Over the next few weeks, your baby will continue gaining weight and their movements may feel more subtle as space becomes tighter. You’re almost at the finish line, and soon you’ll be holding your little one in your arms.
You’re doing an amazing job, mum-to-be! Take time to rest, prepare, and enjoy these final weeks of pregnancy. You’ve got this!
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