# Week 35 of Pregnancy

Source: https://www.pregnancypowerhour.com/pregnancy/week-35
Last updated: 2026-07-01

> As you reach week 35, your baby is growing rapidly, preparing for their arrival, and your body is making its final adjustments for birth.

The final weeks of pregnancy are often a blend of anticipation, excitement, and a touch of nervous energy. As you reach week 35, your body and baby are making significant final preparations for birth. It’s a time to lean into rest, trust your body, and continue gathering the information that helps you feel calm and clear.

## What's happening with baby

At 35 weeks, your baby is now about the size of a honeydew melon, weighing around 5.5 pounds and measuring close to 18 inches. They're growing rapidly, gaining about half a pound each week, mostly in fat stores that will help them regulate their body temperature after birth.

A significant milestone this week is the hardening of your baby's bones. All of their bones are becoming more solid, except for the skull. The skull bones remain soft and flexible, with spaces between them called fontanelles. This design is quite remarkable, allowing the skull to compress slightly during birth, which can make passage through the birth canal a bit smoother.

Your baby's lungs are also nearing full maturity, producing more surfactant – a substance that helps the air sacs stay open. Their brain continues its incredible development, forming intricate connections. With less space to maneuver, your baby's movements might feel different now – perhaps more like stretches, wiggles, or shifts rather than strong kicks. It's still important to pay attention to your baby's movement patterns.

## What you might be feeling

With your baby settling lower into your pelvis, you might notice increased pelvic pressure or discomfort. This "lightening" can sometimes offer a bit more room for your lungs, making breathing a little easier, but it can also intensify pressure on your bladder, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom.

Braxton Hicks contractions might become more frequent and noticeable as your uterus continues its practice for labor. These are generally irregular and non-painful, but they can be a good reminder to pause, hydrate, and rest. Fatigue can also be a significant factor this week, as finding a comfortable sleeping position becomes more challenging, and your body is working hard.

Emotionally, you might be experiencing a mix of feelings: deep excitement to meet your baby, some anxiety about the upcoming birth, and perhaps a strong urge to "nest" – organizing, cleaning, and preparing your home for your baby's arrival. This nesting instinct is a natural way to channel your energy and prepare your space.

## A doula's lived take

This stage of pregnancy is often described as the "waiting game," and it can bring its own unique set of emotions. As a doula, I’ve seen how powerful it is for expectant parents to shift their focus from "waiting" to "preparing." This isn't about rushing anything, but rather about intentionally creating a calm and supportive environment for yourself and your baby.

One option might be to dedicate time each day to gentle movement, like walking or stretching, and deep relaxation. This could involve listening to calming music, practicing guided meditation, or simply resting with your feet up. These practices can help support your nervous system and build resilience for labor and postpartum.

This is also a wonderful time to connect with your support system. Have open, collaborative conversations with your partner or chosen support person about your preferences for labor, how they can best assist you, and what kind of postpartum support you envision. Knowing you have a clear plan and a team behind you can bring a lot of peace of mind. Remember, you get to decide what feels right for you and your family.

## Questions worth asking your provider

As you approach your due date, your appointments will likely become more frequent. This is a great opportunity to clarify any lingering questions and ensure you feel confident and clear about the upcoming birth. Some questions you might consider asking your provider include:

*   What are the definitive signs of labor I should be looking for, and when should I call you or head to the birth facility?
*   Can we review my birth preferences or plan to ensure we're all on the same page?
*   What are the pain management options available to me, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological?
*   Have my Group B Strep test results come back, and what are the next steps if it's positive?
*   What resources are available for postpartum support, both for physical recovery and emotional well-being?

Your provider is your best resource for your specific situation, and these conversations can help you feel more prepared and informed as you move closer to meeting your baby.