Overview: Week 35 of Pregnancy
Welcome to the week-by-week pregnancy guide! In this edition, we will explore what to anticipate at 35 weeks, including symptoms, your baby’s development, and the changes occurring within your body.
Physical Changes at 35 Weeks Pregnant
Your Uterus Has Expanded Significantly
At this stage, your uterus is positioned about six inches above your navel, which is more than just a figment of your imagination. The weight gain typically ranges from 24 to 29 pounds, and a significant portion of this is indeed due to your growing uterus. By the end of your pregnancy, the uterine capacity increases to 500-1000 times its size prior to conception.
Breast Size Variations
It’s not uncommon for your breasts to appear uneven during pregnancy. Research indicates that approximately 76 percent of mothers experience a difference in milk production, with the right breast often producing more. This is just one of the many changes your body undergoes during this time.
Understanding PUPPP
While it might sound cute, PUPPP (pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy) is a common skin condition that can develop during the third trimester. This intensely itchy rash typically appears on the abdomen and sometimes on the limbs. Your healthcare provider may prescribe topical corticosteroids or antihistamines to alleviate discomfort.
Important Considerations This Week
As you move beyond this week, expect more frequent doctor’s appointments—typically weekly. Consider downloading contraction-timing apps like Contraction Master or Full Term to help monitor any contractions. Additionally, if you haven’t already selected a pediatrician, now is the time to do so and inform your obstetrician.
Your Baby’s Development at 35 Weeks Pregnant
Almost Fully Grown
Your baby is now about 17 to 18 inches long and weighs around 5.5 to 6 pounds, roughly the size of a 12-pack of root beer. While they will continue to gain weight until birth, their overall growth has slowed significantly, leading to less movement. It’s advisable to start monitoring your baby’s movements, noting how long it takes to feel ten kicks or similar movements.
The Baby’s Position
By this time, approximately 97 percent of babies have settled into a head-down position in preparation for birth, a phenomenon referred to as “lightening.” If your baby is still in a breech position, your healthcare provider may discuss options for manually turning them or the risks associated with breech delivery.
A Little Listener
By 35 weeks, your baby’s hearing has developed significantly. They are likely familiar with your voice and may even recognize your partner’s voice as well.
Symptoms and Health Considerations at Week 35 Pregnant
Familiar Discomforts
As you approach the end of your pregnancy, symptoms such as heartburn, fatigue, and insomnia may feel familiar. You might also experience increased gas, swelling in your legs, and backaches, which can make the final stretch feel long.
Breathing Easier… Finally
If your baby has dropped, you might find it easier to breathe as the pressure on your diaphragm decreases. However, if they haven’t shifted yet, shortness of breath may persist due to the pressure of your uterus on your rib cage.
Increased Bladder Sensitivity
With the baby’s positioning, you may notice more pressure on your bladder, leading to frequent bathroom trips. Sneezing or coughing could even result in involuntary leakage, a common issue during pregnancy. Wearing panty liners can help manage this if it becomes bothersome.
Loosening Ligaments
As your body prepares for labor, you may experience discomfort due to the loosening of ligaments in your hips and pelvis. While this can be uncomfortable, it ultimately aids in the childbirth process.
Twin Mothers’ Considerations
For those expecting twins, this week often marks the final stretch of pregnancy, as twins typically arrive two to four weeks earlier than singletons. If you haven’t packed your hospital bag yet, now is the time to do so; it won’t be long before you meet your little ones.
For further insights on home insemination and pregnancy, check out this helpful article. Additionally, the Make A Mom website offers a comprehensive guide on artificial insemination, and Healthline provides excellent resources about pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
At 35 weeks pregnant, you are nearing the end of your journey with significant changes for both you and your baby. Your uterus has expanded, and your baby is now about the size of a 12-pack of root beer. As you prepare for more frequent doctor visits, be aware of common symptoms and keep track of your baby’s movements. For those expecting twins, this week may signify the final stages of your pregnancy.
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