Pregnancy – Week 34

It’s now week 34 of your pregnancy. Your blood pressure may be slightly raised and you should take things easy if it is. Try to put your feet up and get as much rest as possible especially if swelling of your hands and feet is a problem.

Mum

As your baby continues to prepare for birth, most women will feel Braxton Hicks contractions which are often irregular but not very painful. They can occur every 10-20 minutes over a period of a few hours then stop. Real labour contractions may make it difficult to talk or move, literally stopping you in your tracks.

You may notice a tingling sensation or numbness in the pelvic region because the pelvic joints are loosening and getting ready for labour. This also may cause pain as you walk.

Your uterus is pushed hard against your lower ribs making your rib cage sore, and as a result of your abdomen being stretched, your navel might be pushing out.

Bub

Bub now weighs 2.4kg (5.29 pounds) and is approximately 46cm (18 inches) long.

Baby’s skin is turning pink and getting plump and tight over his body. He spends a lot of time asleep and squirms regularly when awake.

99% of babies born at week 35 can survive outside the womb and most have no major problems. His lungs are nearly fully developed now but his central nervous system is still maturing.

Baby is developing immunities to mild infections as antibodies cross the placenta.

Tips

Even if you’re not planning a caesarean delivery it is a good idea to be familiar with the procedure in case of one being necessary.
Time to start thinking whether you want to breast feed which helps increase your baby’s immunities. Talk with friends and relatives or consult a lactation expert if you have not yet decided.