Pregnancy can be a thrilling and nerve-wracking experience all at once. Every week of pregnancy brings new developments in your baby’s growth, as well as changes in your body that are both exciting and challenging. Knowing what to expect during each trimester can help you prepare for the weeks ahead. This guide covers everything you need to know about pregnancy at Week 35, including signs and symptoms, baby development, tips on self-care, and more.
What Changes Occur At Week 35?
At Week 35 of pregnancy, your baby is entering the final stretch of their development before they’re ready to come into the world. During this week, the focus will be on finishing up any remaining milestones, such as increasing brain function and developing physical strength. As for you, there may be some discomfort due to the added pressure from your growing uterus, but there are ways to manage these sensations so that you can enjoy this special time.
Baby Development During Week 35 Of Pregnancy
At Week 35 of pregnancy, your baby continues to rapidly grow in size and weight. Their lungs are almost fully developed, while their head has grown larger to accommodate their growing brain. Your baby’s bones have hardened, although their skull remains soft to make delivery easier. The skin is still wrinkled and thin, but it’s starting to thicken as fat accumulates beneath the surface. By now, your baby should measure between 16.5 and 19 inches long, with an average weight of around 5.5 pounds.
Your Body At Week 35 Of Pregnancy
By Week 35 of pregnancy, your uterus should measure roughly five times its pre-pregnancy size and weigh close to two pounds. You may feel a little uncomfortable due to the extra pressure placed on your organs from the growing uterus. Heartburn and indigestion can become increasingly common, as well as difficulty sleeping or finding a comfortable position due to the size of your belly. Braxton Hicks contractions might also start occurring more frequently now; however, these practice contractions are usually nothing to worry about.
Symptoms You Might Experience At Week 35 Of Pregnancy
At Week 35 of pregnancy, you may start noticing some new physical symptoms that accompany the end of your third trimester. Swelling in your feet and ankles is common at this stage due to water retention caused by hormonal changes. Leg cramps can occur as a result of decreased circulation in your legs. Difficulty breathing is another symptom that many women experience near the end of their pregnancy due to increased pressure on the diaphragm from the growing uterus. Fatigue is also common at this point since your body is working overtime preparing for childbirth.
Tips For Taking Care Of Yourself During Week 35 Of Pregnancy
The last few weeks of pregnancy can be especially demanding, which is why taking care of yourself during this time is so important. Make sure to get plenty of rest and keep stress levels low. Take warm baths or use a heating pad to help relieve soreness or pain associated with swelling or leg cramps. It’s also a good idea to drink lots of fluids and avoid caffeine or alcohol as much as possible. Lastly, listen to your body – if something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or midwife.
The Importance Of Regular Check-Ups In Week 35 Of Pregnancy
It’s essential to attend regular prenatal checkups throughout your pregnancy, particularly during Weeks 34 through 36 when your baby is continuing to develop and mature. These visits will include ultrasounds and tests to monitor your baby’s health and yours as well. You may also discuss any concerns you have regarding labor and delivery preparation with your healthcare provider at this time.
Healthy Eating Habits To Maintain During Week 35 Of Pregnancy
Eating healthy during your pregnancy is crucial for providing your growing baby with the necessary nutrients for proper development. Eat foods rich in protein and calcium like lean meats, dairy products, nuts, beans, fish, and dark leafy greens. Whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats are also important parts of a balanced diet during this time. Avoid processed foods, excess sugar, caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, trans fats, and fried foods as much as possible.
Engaging In Physical Activity During Week 35 Of Pregnancy
Regular exercise during pregnancy can provide many benefits such as reducing fatigue and aches/pains while strengthening muscles needed for delivery. However, it’s important to note that not all exercises are suitable during pregnancy – it’s best to consult with your doctor before engaging in any type of activity. Walking and swimming are generally considered safe forms of exercise that pregnant women can partake in throughout their pregnancies. Yoga is another option that helps strengthen core muscles used during labor and delivery.
Common Concerns Regarding Week 35 Of Pregnancy And How To Address Them
Some common concerns experienced by pregnant women during their third trimester include anxiety over upcoming labor and delivery, fear of potential complications, feeling overwhelmed by life after the baby arrives, and worries related to financial pressures associated with parenting expenses. If you find yourself feeling anxious or stressed during this period, try talking to friends or family members who have gone through the same thing for reassurance or seek counseling from a mental health professional if necessary.
Final Preparations Before Baby Arrives
As you enter Week 35 of pregnancy, it’s time to start thinking about making those last-minute preparations before your bundle of joy arrives! Start stocking up on diapers, wipes, formula (if breastfeeding isn’t an option), and other necessities like clothing and furniture items you’ll need for the newborn phase. Think about creating a birth plan detailing how you would like labor and delivery to go, establish a postpartum support system with people who can lend a helping hand after the baby comes home, and talk to your employer about maternity leave arrangements so that you can take adequate time off work when needed.
Conclusion
Week 35 of pregnancy marks an exciting milestone as you approach the finish line in anticipation of meeting your precious new arrival! Keeping track of weekly changes in both you and your baby can help alleviate any anxieties surrounding childbirth while also allowing you to savor every moment leading up to this special event. From managing physical discomforts to getting organized for the days ahead, following our guide will ensure that you remain informed and prepared throughout the remainder of your pregnancy journey.