Pregnancy – Week 35

It’s now Week 35 and if you have any worries about labour and birth you should discuss them with your health care professional. You could be feeling tired and a little fed up so try to rest as much as possible. During these last weeks you will be needing another 200 calories a day. Save time and forestall anxiety at the time of labour and delivery with some practical planning.

Mum

Your uterus has expanded to 1,000 times its original volume and is now up under your ribs. You’ve probably gained around 11.5 – 13.5 kg (25 – 29 pounds) but will probably gain little or no more weight from now until your due date.

Try to get as much rest as possible. Even 5 minutes with your feet up may be enough to re-energise you.

Consult your doctor about a calcium supplement if you are suffering from leg cramps.

You may be moodier and more irritable, more uncomfortable and not sleeping very well at this stage.

Make a tour of the labour ward or birth centre where you plan to deliver so you are familiar with your environment and feel relaxed and comfortable during labour.

Bub

Bub’s weight has now increased to almost 2.7kg (5.9 pounds), he is measuring about 47cm (18.5 inches) and most babies will gain about half a pound (226 grams) per week in the last month of pregnancy.

Baby now has a fully developed pair of kidneys. His liver can also process some waste products. He still doesn’t have enough fat deposits beneath his skin to keep warm outside your womb.

If born now he would be placed in a incubator. About 90% of babies born this week survive.

Bub’s reflexes are coordinated, he’s turning his head, grasping firmly and responding to sounds, light and touch.

The bones of his skull have not fused in the centre yet. They will compress together during delivery. These soft spots on the top and back of the head are called fontanelles and will take time to harden after birth.

Tips

Have the prospective dad learn to swaddle a baby and learn soothing strokes of massage to calm him as this will help bring them closer together.
You may like to cut down on diuretic drinks like tea and coffee, which will make you have to urinate even more often.
Work out the best route to the hospital. Familiarise yourself with an alternate route in case of a major delay.
Collect the necessary baby clothes, equipment, a car seat and furniture to get you through the first few weeks if you haven’t already done so.