Pregnancy Calendar at Week 35
Hi there, little mama!
I’m already a bit taller — about how tall a small pumpkin is — and I grow a little more each day to be ready to meet you. I’m about 46.5 cm long and weigh nearly 2.5 kilograms. My skin is almost gone, and my soft, smooth skin has turned shiny and elastic, while my body is now rounded and sturdy.
I’m totally ready to be born and start living inside your little world, stop a bit longer if you need to gather your strength and confidence — that’s totally normal. Take your time, I’ll be here when you’re ready!
My organs are still developing, and I already have a nice range of sounds. And your voice — it’s my favorite thing in the world. The bones in my little skull are still pretty soft, so I can pass easily through the birth canal. My muscles and body are getting stronger, getting ready for the big day!
I produce important hormones that help keep my tiny immune system strong and healthy. I can breathe on my own now — just waiting for the moment to meet you!
Most of my time is spent gathering strength, and sometimes I turn my little head down — just makes it easier for us to find each other when the time comes. Thank you for your warmth and care, I can feel your love every moment.
We’ll see each other soon, mama! I love you so much.
Your little pumpkin 🎃💙
What to Expect with Your Baby
Around the 35th week of pregnancy, women start to notice new and changing sensations as their bodies prepare for labor. Life slows down, and there's a shift in how the mind processes everything. These feelings can be quite noticeable and often trigger a sense of anticipation for the baby's arrival.
Breast Changes
While breast discomfort might not always be very strong, it actively signals that the body is gearing up to feed the baby. Milk-producing glands start working harder to produce more milk. If it wasn’t too obvious before, now women might notice small stains on their pajamas, especially after sleeping. This is a natural part of the process, and some women even feel a slight ache or heaviness in the breasts that gradually intensifies. These pains can spread across the chest and the pelvic area. Many women also experience ligament pain in the lower abdomen, which tends to worsen over time. Some recognize early signs of preterm labor, such as the leakage of watery substances or mucus, which indicates the beginning of contractions and early labor. During this time, it’s advised to monitor and contact a healthcare provider if any symptoms occur unexpectedly.
Labor Signs
By the 35th week of pregnancy, labor might be triggered by increased pressure on the stomach caused by the baby’s growth. Besides that, contractions can also occur due to the fetus's movements or the release of mucus plug. Be cautious about fluid intake after 7 p.m. to avoid swelling. It’s recommended to drink small amounts frequently rather than a large volume in one go. Choose the maternity ward where you plan to give birth, get familiar with the doctor and midwives, and exchange contacts just in case of unforeseen situations.
Early Births
Births around the 35th week are not uncommon, so it’s important to recognize early signs. One main indicator is the leakage of amniotic fluid or the release of mucus. Women can also experience pain or contractions in the lower abdomen, which gradually intensify. These pains might spread and affect the pelvic area. Premature labor signs can already be observed here, and if recurring, they usually indicate early labor because the body is starting to slow down. To reduce discomfort and gas buildup, using a waist belt is recommended.
Vaginal Discharge
Normally, vaginal discharge doesn’t change in consistency during pregnancy. However, always watch for thick or mucus-like discharge, especially if there are bloody or yellowish/brownish spots, which may require a visit to the doctor for diagnosis. Any unusual symptoms should prompt medical attention promptly.
Medical Examination
In the 35th week, women undergo a series of planned examinations to help the doctor assess the health of both mother and baby. This helps prevent potential complications during labor and monitors the pregnancy’s progress. A gynecologist will perform a general assessment, measure the height and position of the uterus, and evaluate the condition and development of the placenta (including its color, thickness, and blood flow). It’s also important to check the presence of any deposits or residues, the state of the cervix (its ripeness and thickness), and the amount of amniotic fluid and impurities. These visits ensure that the pregnancy is progressing well and catch any issues early.
Doctors
- Gynecologist: conducts a general review, measures the uterus height and assesses the fetal position and activity.
- Other specialists: are consulted if necessary, especially in cases of chronic illnesses or pregnancy complications.
Ultrasound Checkups
By the 35th week, ultrasounds are scheduled regularly to help the doctor evaluate the fetus and monitor its development. If an ultrasound wasn’t performed earlier, it’s mandatory at this stage. Ultrasounds provide insight into the fetus’s condition, help determine its position, estimate the weight, and check for any abnormalities or signs of preterm labor.
Risks and Variations
Potential deviations from normal include:
- Threats of preterm labor
- Chronic fetal hypoxia
- Gestosis
- Premature placental detachment or normal placental position
Be aware that chorionic deposits are strictly prohibited. Don’t sit on beds immediately after labor. Initially, turn onto your side, lift your legs, and lean on your arms to improve circulation. Maintain enough activity to avoid blood clots in the postpartum period, but not overexert yourself; gentle movement and breathing exercises from childbirth classes are very helpful during labor. Use a waist belt to prevent lower back pain. If you notice symptoms of preterm labor, contact your doctor immediately.
What a Future Mom Can Expect:
- Smoking, if permitted, isn’t recommended, and it’s better to stay away from the home environment and always have your phone with you.
- Regularly visit your doctor and undergo necessary examinations to assess the pregnancy’s status. This helps prevent possible complications and analyze the labor process more clearly.
What NOT to Do
- Avoid gathering in crowded places with lots of people, and try to cancel social outings if possible.
- Don’t lift heavy things—even a weight of 3 kg lifted with muscle tension can trigger premature labor.
- Avoid drinking water after the seventh hour of evening to prevent swelling.
- Take only gentle, decaffeinated exercises to prevent excessive strain on the spine—stand up straight, stretch, walk, and breathe in a relaxed manner.
- Choose a maternity ward where you plan to give birth, familiarize yourself with the doctors and midwives, and exchange contacts for emergencies.
- Monitor your weight weekly to avoid excess weight gain in the last weeks of pregnancy and observe your diet.
- Develop breathing exercises learned in childbirth courses—this will be very useful during labor.
- Lie on your side to avoid lower back pain.
- If planning a partner’s visit, make sure your future partner has completed all necessary medical exams beforehand.
- Follow your doctor’s advice regarding baby screening tests, especially in the last weeks, to avoid complications.
Useful Tips
At 35 weeks pregnant, it's really important to make sure you're fully ready for that big day and possible hospital stay. Gather all the necessary documents (passport, insurance, medical records) and things for yourself and your little one ahead of time, so you're not stressed trying to get everything together in a rush. Keep your phones handy and keep your close contacts in the loop—think your doctor and everyone at the birth center—so you can reach out quickly when the moment arrives.
