35-Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect in Your Third Trimester

As the sunrise of motherhood draws closer, reaching the 35-week mark in your pregnancy can feel like the suspenseful climax of an epic journey. Straddling the line between anxiety and exhilaration, it’s a period brimming with anticipation. In this riveting chapter of your pregnancy adventure, we’re going to navigate the winding paths of your third trimester. Our insightful tour will take you through what to expect as your body continues adapting, and how to prepare yourself for the beautiful journey that lies ahead – welcoming your newborn into the world. Strap on for an enlightening voyage into week 35 of your pregnancy.

At 35 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing rapidly and may weigh around 5¼ pounds and be about 18 inches long. The movements of your baby have shifted from kicks and punches to rolls and wiggles. It’s common to experience frequent urination due to the pressure of the baby’s head on the bladder, and some women may also experience urinary incontinence when coughing, sneezing, or laughing. Now is a good time to consider child care options as well, such as day care centers, family day cares, nannies, au pairs, relative caregivers, and babysitters. Nasal congestion due to pregnancy hormones and stretch marks are also common at this stage. Pregnancy insomnia may affect you, so establishing a bedtime routine and engaging in relaxation exercises can help induce sleep. Heartburn is experienced by many pregnant women, and managing triggers like citrus and tomato while sitting upright while eating can provide relief. Finally, it’s important to prepare for your hospital stay by familiarizing yourself with the hospital entrance and parking, mapping out routes, arranging childcare for older children if necessary, and practicing squat exercises to prepare for labor. Remember that every pregnancy experience is unique, so it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

35 Weeks Pregnant: Body Changes and Symptoms

At 35 weeks pregnant, your body is going through remarkable changes as you near the end of your pregnancy journey. These changes are not only physical but can also manifest in various symptoms that may impact your daily life. It’s important to understand these changes so you can navigate this stage with ease.

One significant change you may notice is the shifting of your baby’s movements. As your little one grows larger, their kicks and punches start transitioning into rolls and wiggles. This change is due to limited space in your womb and doesn’t necessarily indicate any issues. Embrace these gentle movements as signs of your baby’s development.

Alongside these movements, you may experience new discomforts or intensifying symptoms. The added pressure on your bladder from the baby’s head at this stage can lead to more frequent urination. You might also find yourself dealing with urinary incontinence when laughing, coughing, or sneezing. Remember that these symptoms are common and part of the pregnancy journey.

Additionally, nasal congestion caused by pregnancy hormones can be bothersome. Using nasal strips or saline spray can provide relief, while applying petroleum jelly to the nostrils and using a warm-mist humidifier can alleviate dryness.

Don’t be surprised if you notice stretch marks appearing on your abdomen or other areas of your body during this time. These are a natural phenomenon caused by the stretching of the skin as your baby grows. While they may fade over time, using lotions and other products can help minimize their appearance.

Lastly, pregnancy insomnia affects many expectant mothers, especially in the third trimester. Creating a soothing bedtime routine and engaging in relaxation exercises can help promote better sleep and combat restlessness during this period.

Now that we’ve explored some general body changes and symptoms, let’s focus specifically on weight gain and physical changes that occur at 35 weeks pregnant.

• At 35 weeks gestation, the average fetus is approximately 18 inches long and weighs around 5¼ pounds according to the American Pregnancy Association.
• The National Health Service UK reports that about 75% of pregnant women suffer from insomnia during their third trimester, which includes 35 weeks of gestation.
• According to a 2019 study by the University of California, San Francisco, nearly half of all pregnant women experience heartburn, especially during their third trimester (27-40 weeks), which encompasses the 35th week.

Weight Gain and Physical Changes

By the 35th week of pregnancy, your body has likely undergone significant physical transformations. As your baby continues to grow, you can expect an increase in both weight gain and changes in your body’s shape.

At this stage, it’s normal to have gained around 25-35 pounds (11-16 kg) throughout your pregnancy, although every woman’s experience is unique. The majority of this weight gain is attributed to the growth of your baby, the placenta, amniotic fluid, and an increase in blood volume. These changes are necessary for supporting a healthy pregnancy.

In addition to overall weight gain, you may also notice specific physical changes. Your baby bump has likely become larger and more prominent as the weeks progress. Your once skinny arms and legs may now appear plump and soft due to increased fluid retention.

One notable change is the padding up of fat on your baby’s shoulders. This extra fat serves as protective cushioning for their journey through the birth canal. It’s fascinating to witness these adaptations taking place in preparation for childbirth.

As your due date approaches, it’s important to remember that weight gain varies from person to person, and comparing yourself to others may not be helpful or accurate. Trust that your body knows what it needs to support a healthy pregnancy.

Now that we’ve explored the physical changes and weight gain during the 35th week of pregnancy, let’s address some common discomforts experienced during this stage and discuss ways to manage them effectively.

• During the 35th week of pregnancy, your body will undergo significant physical transformations. It is normal to have gained around 25-35 pounds throughout your pregnancy, with the majority attributed to the growth of your baby, placenta, amniotic fluid, and an increase in blood volume. Your baby bump will become larger and more prominent, and you may notice plumpness in your arms and legs due to increased fluid retention. Additionally, there will be padding up of fat on your baby’s shoulders for protective cushioning during childbirth. Remember that weight gain varies from person to person, so comparing yourself to others may not be accurate or helpful. Trust that your body knows what it needs for a healthy pregnancy.

Common Discomfort and Managing Symptoms

During the 35th week of pregnancy, it’s common for expectant mothers to experience various discomforts and symptoms as their bodies continue to undergo significant changes. One frequent issue is the increased pressure on the bladder due to the baby’s head descending into the pelvis. This often leads to a frequent need to urinate and, in some cases, urinary incontinence when coughing, sneezing, or laughing. To manage these symptoms, it’s helpful to empty your bladder completely when you do go to the bathroom and wear panty liners for added protection.

Another common symptom experienced at this stage is nasal congestion. Pregnancy hormones can cause swelling in the blood vessels of the nasal passages, leading to stuffiness. Using saline nasal sprays or strips can provide relief by moisturizing and clearing the nasal passages. Additionally, applying a small amount of petroleum jelly inside your nostrils can help combat dryness.

It’s important to address another common concern during pregnancy – stretch marks. As the skin stretches to accommodate your growing belly, stretch marks can appear on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and buttocks. While they are a natural part of pregnancy, you can minimize their appearance by regularly moisturizing your skin with lotions or creams specifically designed for stretch mark prevention.

Pregnancy insomnia affects many expectant mothers during the third trimester. Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep can be attributed to physical discomfort, hormonal changes, or anxiety about labor and impending parenthood. Establishing a soothing bedtime routine that includes relaxation exercises like deep breathing or gentle stretches can improve your chances of getting better rest.

Baby’s Development at 35 Weeks

At 35 weeks pregnant, your baby continues to grow and prepare for their arrival into the world. Their size is now comparable to a bunch of Swiss chard, measuring around 18 inches long and weighing approximately 5¼ pounds. Although their movements may feel different due to limited space, you will still experience their wiggles and rolls as they adjust their position within the womb. Most babies are positioned with their heads facing down towards the cervix in preparation for birth.

Your baby’s arms and legs, once thin and bony, have become plump and soft as they gain more fat. This fat serves as insulation and provides necessary support for their developing body. Additionally, your baby’s skull remains soft and flexible, with the cranial bones overlapping to facilitate an easier passage through the birth canal during labor.

As your due date approaches, it’s essential to monitor your baby’s movements regularly. If you notice a significant decrease in fetal movement or any unusual patterns, contact your healthcare provider for guidance and reassurance.

Size and Position in Womb

At 35 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing steadily and is as big as a bunch of Swiss chard. The majority of their growth at this stage is focused on gaining fat, which helps to pad up their shoulders for the journey south. It’s important to note that almost all babies are positioned with their heads facing down toward the cervix by this point. This head-down position, known as vertex presentation, is ideal for a safer and smoother labor and delivery process.

Just think about it: your little one, snugly nestled inside your womb, is preparing themselves for the outside world. They’re getting into position, cozying up against your pelvis, and getting ready for the incredible journey ahead.

This positioning of the baby’s head also plays a role in some common physical discomforts you may experience during this stage of your pregnancy. The pressure exerted by the baby’s head on your bladder can result in frequent urination, making those bathroom trips more frequent than usual. You may also find that coughing, sneezing, or laughing can lead to urinary incontinence due to the added pressure on your pelvic floor muscles.

With an understanding of how your baby is positioned in the womb and its impact on your body, let’s now explore the physical features and development that are occurring during this stage.

Physical Features and Development

At 35 weeks pregnant, your baby has grown significantly since earlier stages of pregnancy. They now measure around 18 inches long and weigh approximately 5¼ pounds. Those once skinny arms and legs have become plump and soft, adding to their adorable appearance. The skull remains soft and flexible to allow for easier passage through the birth canal during delivery.

As for you, mama, you may be experiencing some discomforts associated with pregnancy hormones. Nasal congestion is common due to increased blood flow and swelling in the nasal passages. You can find relief by using nasal strips or saline spray to alleviate congestion. Additionally, applying petroleum jelly to the nostrils and using a warm-mist humidifier can help combat dryness.

It’s also important to embrace the beauty of your changing body during this time. Stretch marks, though they may appear, are a testament to the incredible journey of nurturing life within you. They are normal and will gradually fade over time. Using lotions and oils specifically designed for stretch marks may help minimize their appearance and keep your skin moisturized.

Another common challenge during pregnancy is insomnia, which can affect around 75% of expectant mothers, especially in the third trimester. Establishing a soothing bedtime routine and engaging in relaxation exercises, such as gentle stretching or taking warm baths, may aid in inducing sleep and promoting overall well-being.

Lastly, heartburn can make an appearance at this stage due to hormonal changes and the growing baby pressing against your stomach. Sitting upright while eating, avoiding triggers like citrus and tomato, chewing slowly, managing stress levels, and practicing mindfulness while eating can help relieve heartburn symptoms and promote greater comfort.

Preparing for Birth during 35th Week

As you reach the 35th week, it’s essential to start preparing for the birth of your baby. During this stage, your baby’s growth is in full swing, and their movements have shifted from kicks and punches to rolls and wiggles. Most babies are positioned with their heads facing down towards the cervix, getting ready for their journey into the world. With only a few weeks left until your due date, it’s time to focus on considering child care options and making necessary hospital preparations.

Let’s dive into some important aspects to consider when it comes to child care and hospital preparations at this stage of pregnancy.

Considering Child care and Hospital Preparations

Child care is an essential consideration as you approach your due date. It’s crucial to explore different child care options and make arrangements beforehand, as some daycares may have long waitlists. The available options range from day care centers and family day cares to nannies, au pairs, relative caregivers, and babysitters. Each option offers its benefits and considerations, so take the time to research what aligns best with your needs and preferences.

For instance, if you prefer personalized attention and flexibility, hiring a nanny or au pair might be suitable for you. On the other hand, if socialization and structured learning are important to you, a reputable day care center could be a good fit.

In addition to considering child care options, it’s also essential to make hospital preparations. Familiarize yourself with the hospital where you plan to give birth. Research parking options and locate the entrance that will lead you directly to the maternity ward. Mapping out routes can help alleviate any last-minute stress or confusion during labor.

If you have older children who will need care while you’re at the hospital, arrange for childcare in advance. Having a trusted family member or friend on standby can provide peace of mind, knowing that your older children will be well taken care of during your hospital stay.

Think of these preparations as training for a marathon. Just as you would practice and get physically ready for the race, these steps help ensure you’re prepared and have everything in place for the arrival of your baby.

By considering child care options and making necessary hospital preparations, you can approach the final weeks of pregnancy with confidence and peace of mind. These steps allow you to focus on taking care of yourself and embracing the exciting journey ahead.

Coping with Household Tasks at 35 Weeks

At 35 weeks pregnant, you might find yourself contending with a mix of excitement and exhaustion as your due date rapidly approaches. The physical discomforts of the third trimester can make even simple household tasks feel overwhelming. It’s essential to listen to your body and not push yourself beyond your limits.

Many women experience fatigue and increased physical discomfort during this stage, which can make it challenging to engage in regular household chores. It’s important to prioritize your well-being and focus on self-care. Communicate openly with your partner about your physical limitations and seek their support in managing household responsibilities.

Your partner may be willing to step up and take on more tasks like cooking, cleaning, and doing laundry to alleviate some of the burden. Sharing these responsibilities allows you to conserve energy so that you can devote more time and attention to preparing for the arrival of your baby.

If you find that household tasks are becoming too overwhelming or exhausting, consider hiring help. Bringing in a cleaning service or hiring a cleaning lady can take the pressure off you and allow you to prioritize rest and relaxation during these final weeks of pregnancy.

Remember, every woman’s pregnancy experience is unique, so it’s crucial to have open and honest conversations with your partner about what you need at this stage. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or adjust your expectations when it comes to managing household tasks.

For example, instead of aiming for a spotless home, focus on maintaining a clean and comfortable environment without feeling the need for perfection. This shift in mindset can help relieve unnecessary stress and allow you to conserve your energy for more important things.

Lastly, be kind to yourself. Growing a baby is a full-time job that requires extra care and understanding. Recognize that it’s okay if some things are left undone or if you need to ask for assistance. Your well-being and the health of your baby should be your top priorities.