What Does Being 35 Weeks Pregnant Mean?
Reaching 35 weeks in your pregnancy is a big deal! It means you’re in the final stretch, with just about five weeks to go until the full-term mark. Your baby is almost ready to meet you, and your body is making all the final preparations for birth.
The Growth of Your Baby at 35 Weeks
At 35 weeks, your baby is as big as a pineapple, weighing around 5.5 pounds, and could be over 18 inches long! They’re busy gaining weight, getting stronger, and their little kidneys are fully developed now. Their brain is also growing fast, which means they’re getting smarter by the day.
The baby’s tiny fingers can now grasp, which you might feel when they grab onto their umbilical cord. They might even be sucking their thumb!
- Baby’s Fat Layer:
- The baby is adding a critical layer of fat.
- This fat is vital for regulating body temperature and providing energy after birth.
- Organ Development:
- The kidneys and liver are almost ready to function independently.
- These organs are crucial for processing waste and other substances post-birth.
- Brain Development:
- Rapid brain growth is occurring, forming neural connections for learning and interaction.
- This period is essential for the baby’s cognitive development.
- Primitive Reflexes:
- Reflexes like the grasp reflex are developing, crucial for early survival skills.
- Thumb sucking in the womb is a sign of self-soothing abilities.
- Physical and Emotional Changes for the Parent:
- As a parent-to-be, you might experience a mix of excitement, anticipation, and nervousness.
- The physical changes in your body are preparing you for childbirth and parenthood.
- Preparation for Birth:
- This is a time for final preparations before meeting your baby.
- You might feel an increasing connection with your baby, marked by their movements and responses.
- Cherishing the Moments:
- Enjoy the unique bond forming between you and your baby during these final weeks.
- Take time to relax, reflect
, and mentally prepare for the arrival of your new baby.
- Anticipation of Parenthood:
- The excitement and anticipation of becoming a parent grow stronger.
- Use this time to envision your life with the new baby and embrace the changes ahead.
- Self-Care and Rest:
- Prioritize rest and self-care to maintain your health and well-being.
- Focus on relaxing activities and ensure you are getting enough sleep.
- Embracing the Journey:
- Recognize and embrace the beauty of the pregnancy journey.
- Acknowledge the strength and resilience you’ve developed during this time.
Each of these points highlights the remarkable journey of pregnancy, particularly in the 35th week. It’s a time of significant development for your baby and profound personal growth for you as you prepare to enter the world of parenthood.
Changes in Your Body
Your body is going through lots of changes. You might feel pretty big and a bit awkward. You could be dealing with some of these common symptoms:
Swelling (Edema): Swelling is common, especially in your feet and ankles, because your body is retaining more fluid than usual. The extra weight and pressure of the baby can also slow down the circulation in your legs, causing fluid to build up. To help with swelling:
- Elevate your feet when possible.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush your system.
- Avoid standing or sitting for long periods.
Heartburn: The expanding uterus puts pressure on your stomach, which can push stomach acids up into the esophagus, causing that uncomfortable burning sensation known as heartburn. To combat this:
- Eat smaller, more manageable meals throughout the day.
- Avoid spicy and greasy foods that can aggravate heartburn.
- Don’t lie down immediately after eating; give your body time to digest.
Frequent Urination: Your growing baby and expanding uterus are applying more pressure on your bladder, resulting in the need to urinate more often. Although you can’t prevent this entirely:
- Empty your bladder completely each time you go to reduce the frequency.
- Cut down on caffeine, which can irritate the bladder.
- Lean forward when you urinate to help empty your bladder completely.
Backaches: The extra weight you’re carrying often results in backaches. Your center of gravity shifts, and this can strain your back muscles. To alleviate back pain:
- Practice good posture.
- Use a support pillow when sitting and sleeping.
- Engage in gentle exercises, like prenatal yoga or swimming, to strengthen your back muscles.
Remember, every woman’s pregnancy experience is unique, and while these symptoms are common, not everyone will experience them in the same way.
Always listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice and help ensure that your pregnancy is as comfortable as possible. As you near the end of your pregnancy, taking care of your well-being becomes even more important, so take it easy, rest as much as you need, and get ready for the arrival of your new baby.
Preparing for Labor
Braxton Hicks Contractions: These “practice” contractions might have become a part of your daily life by now. They can feel like a tightening across your belly, kind of like your bump is turning into a hard ball. These are your body’s way of rehearsing for the main event. However, if these practice contractions become too painful or start happening at regular intervals, it’s time to get in touch with your healthcare provider because it might be a sign that your body is gearing up for actual labor.
Packing the Hospital Bag: It’s never too early to have your hospital bag ready to go. Here’s a basic checklist of what to include:
- For You: Comfy clothes for during and after labor, a robe, non-skid socks or slippers, and a couple of nursing bras.
- For Baby: An outfit for the hospital photos and the ride home, along with a soft blanket.
- Toiletries: Don’t forget the basics like a toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, and any skincare items you use daily.
- Snacks: Labor can be long, and while hospitals often provide food, you might want your own snacks on hand.
- Paperwork: Have copies of your ID, insurance card, and any hospital forms you’ve pre-filled.
Staying Healthy
Eating Right: Your diet is more important than ever as you approach your due date. Here’s how I make sure both the baby and I are getting the nutrients we need:
- Fruits and Vegetables: I aim for a rainbow of colors on my plate to get a variety of vitamins and minerals.
- Whole Grains: Foods like oatmeal, brown rice, and whole-grain bread keep my energy levels stable.
- Protein: I include lean meats, beans, tofu, and nuts to support the baby’s growth and repair my tissues.
- Hydration: Drinking water is my go-to, but I also enjoy the occasional smoothie or fresh juice.
Staying Active: Keeping up with exercise can be tough with a big belly, but here’s what works for me:
- Walking: A daily walk helps keep my muscles toned and my mind clear.
- Prenatal Yoga: It stretches out my aches and is so relaxing.
- Swimming: It’s great for feeling weightless and giving my joints a break.
Doctor Visits: These days, my OB-GYN feels like a close friend because I see them so often. At each visit, they check:
- Baby’s Position: Making sure they’re getting ready for delivery.
- My Vital Signs: Monitoring my blood pressure and weight.
- Heartbeat Monitoring: Listening to the baby’s heartbeat for reassurance that all is well.
These regular check-ins provide peace of mind that everything is on track for a healthy birth. They’re also a great opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns I might have. As always, if something feels off between visits, I don’t hesitate to give my doctor a call. Staying on top of my health is the best thing I can do for my baby right now.
What to Expect in the Coming Weeks
Rest: Your Top Priority
- Finding Comfort: As your belly grows, finding a comfortable sleeping position becomes more challenging. A pregnancy pillow can be a lifesaver for supporting your belly and finding that sweet spot where you can rest.
- Taking Breaks: Don’t be shy about taking short, frequent breaks throughout the day to recharge. Listen to your body—if you’re tired, sit down and put your feet up.
Stay Informed: Knowledge is Your Superpower
- Educating Yourself: Attend birthing classes, either in person or online. Understanding the stages of labor can demystify the process and help you feel more in control.
- Newborn Care: Brush up on newborn care basics. Knowing how to handle a newborn and what to expect those first few weeks can alleviate some anxiety.
Support: Your Circle of Care
- Reaching Out: Keep communication lines open with your loved ones. Now is the time to lean on your support system.
- Asking for Help: Whether it’s help with household chores or just someone to talk to, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Relax: Unwind and Connect
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness and meditation can help calm any pre-birth jitters.
- Me Time: Indulge in activities that relax you. Whether that’s reading, knitting, or watching a series, make time for things that bring you joy.
Remember, each pregnancy is unique, and while these are general guidelines, your experience may differ.
Always consult with your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you have as you approach labor and delivery. Their guidance, coupled with your intuition about your body, will be invaluable as you prepare to welcome your baby into the world. Cherish these last few weeks of pregnancy, as they are a special time of anticipation and transformation. Before you know it, you’ll be embarking on the incredible journey of parenthood.
Conclusion
As you navigate through the 35th week of pregnancy, remember that you are in a phase of preparation and anticipation. It’s a time to nurture yourself, tie up loose ends, and look forward to the life-changing experience of childbirth. Embrace the support of loved ones, trust in the knowledge you’ve gathered, and listen to your body’s wisdom. The final weeks may seem to stretch out, but soon enough, you’ll be in the throes of labor, bringing your precious child into the world. Take these moments to reflect, rest, and savor the quiet before the beautiful storm of newborn life begins. Here’s to the journey ahead — may it be as smooth and joyful as possible.
