from 34 full weeks + 0 days to 34 full weeks + 6 days
Size of A honeydew melon
- The baby now weighs about 2.5 kilograms and gains approximately 200 grams per week.
- The kidneys are fully developed and the liver can process some waste products.
- The skin is now pink and smooth thanks to the fat layers.
- The baby has less room to move but you should still feel movements every day.
- The amniotic fluid decreases slightly as the baby takes up more and more space.
Physical changes
- The belly is very large and can feel extremely heavy.
- The pelvis is widening, which can affect your gait.
- Vaginal discharge may increase – this is normal.
Common symptoms
- Difficulty sleeping with multiple awakenings per night.
- Swollen hands and feet.
- Increasing pelvic pain and downward pressure.
- Heartburn and digestive issues.
- Braxton Hicks that may become stronger and more frequent.
Emotional changes
- Fear and anticipation about labor exist side by side.
- Fatigue can affect your mood – be kind to yourself.
- A strong desire to have everything ready at home.
- Keep the hospital bag by the door.
- Discuss your birth preferences with your partner – what do you want, what worries you.
- Prepare the home with baby supplies: crib, diapers, newborn-sized clothes.
- Try to rest even if you cannot sleep – lie down and relax.
Appointments & check-ups
- Midwife checkups every two weeks or more frequently now.
- Assessment of the baby's position – breech presentation may be discussed.
- GBS culture (Group B Streptococcus) may be taken between weeks 35–37.
Important
- If the baby is in breech position, external cephalic version may be offered – discuss with your midwife.
- Contact the delivery ward if your water breaks, you have bleeding, or regular contractions.
- Decreased fetal movements should always be checked.
Good to eat
- Energy-rich snacks: trail mix, fruit with nut butter, oat balls.
- Protein-rich foods at every meal to support the baby's final growth phase.
- Water-rich fruits and vegetables – helps with constipation and swelling.
- Whole grain products for sustained energy.
Be aware of
- Raspberry leaf tea – if you want to try it, wait until week 36 and check with your midwife.
- Do not eat large meals late in the evening.
- Be mindful of spices and herbs in large amounts.
Avoid
- Unpasteurized dairy products.
- Raw and undercooked food.
- Alcohol.
Supplements
- Continue with iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 as recommended.
- Magnesium can help with cramps if approved by your midwife.
Short exercise sessions are optimal now. Even 10 minutes of walking or stretching makes a difference.
Practice labor positions: on all fours, side-lying, sitting on a ball. Having tried different positions in advance makes it easier to find what works during labor.
Suggested activities
- Short walks – preferably several times a day
- Prenatal yoga focusing on opening and breathing
- Rocking movements on a Pilates ball – good for the pelvis
- Water exercise if available
Avoid
- Any exercise that causes pain or discomfort
- Intense exercise
- Running if it does not feel good
Pelvic floor exercises
Continue with Kegel exercises and perineal massage. Being able to consciously relax the pelvic floor is an important skill for labor.
Sources
The content on this website is based on information from 1177.se and the Swedish Food Agency. It does not replace professional medical advice. Always contact your midwife or doctor with questions about your pregnancy.