from 35 full weeks + 0 days to 35 full weeks + 6 days
Size of A large papaya
- The baby is nearly fully developed and is preparing for life outside the womb.
- Fat layers now make up about 15 percent of the body weight.
- The liver and lungs are undergoing their final stages of maturation.
- The baby has descended deeper into the pelvis in first-time mothers.
- The amniotic fluid is decreasing – the baby fills most of the uterus.
Physical changes
- If the baby has dropped, you may breathe more easily but the pressure on your bladder increases.
- The pelvis and joints become looser under the influence of hormones.
- The breasts may leak colostrum more frequently.
Common symptoms
- Strong downward pressure on the pelvis.
- More frequent bathroom visits – sometimes every other hour.
- Difficulty sleeping and restlessness.
- Braxton Hicks that may become more intense.
- Back pain and pelvic pain.
Emotional changes
- Many experience a mix of relief (it is getting close!) and worry.
- The nesting instinct can be very strong.
- Some feel mentally ready while others want more time.
- Double-check that the hospital bag is complete.
- Install the car seat in the car – it is needed for the trip home.
- Cook meals and freeze portions for the time after delivery.
- Learn to recognize signs that labor is approaching: the mucus plug comes away, water breaks, regular contractions.
Appointments & check-ups
- Midwife checkup – assessment of the baby's position and engagement of the head.
- GBS culture if not already taken.
- Discuss labor planning and pain relief options.
Important
- Contact the delivery ward if your water breaks – note the time, amount, and color.
- Regular contractions 5 minutes apart or less – contact the delivery ward.
- Bleeding should always be assessed urgently.
Good to eat
- Energy-giving foods: dates, nuts, bananas – good as snacks during labor.
- Easily digestible carbohydrates such as toast, fruit, and porridge.
- Protein-rich meals for endurance.
- Drink at least 2 liters of water per day.
Be aware of
- Raspberry leaf tea can be started from week 36, but check with your midwife first.
- Some studies show that dates from week 36 can have a positive effect on labor – but it is not a requirement.
- Avoid spicy food if you have heartburn.
Avoid
- Unpasteurized products.
- Raw fish and raw meat.
- Alcohol.
- Large amounts of licorice products.
Supplements
- Continue with prescribed supplements.
- Vitamin D.
- Omega-3 until delivery.
The focus should now be entirely on labor preparation, relaxation, and keeping the body moving in a gentle way.
Labor breathing and visualization: Practice breathing calmly and slowly while visualizing the cervix opening. This technique can help you stay calm during labor.
Suggested activities
- Short walks that help the baby descend into the pelvis
- Pelvic rocking on a Pilates ball
- Prenatal yoga with relaxation and meditation
- Stretching of hips and inner thighs
Avoid
- Exercise that causes pain or severe breathlessness
- Heavy lifting and intense strength training
- Activities with fall risk
Pelvic floor exercises
Continue with pelvic floor exercises. Focus especially now on relaxation of the pelvic floor – practice consciously releasing all tension.
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.