Pregnancy Calendar at Week 36
Hi there, little one!
I'm already a pretty big girl — almost like a pineapple! I have almost everything I need to shine in the sunlight. My systems and organs work just the way they should: endocrine, circulatory, brain, liver, and kidneys — they’re all aging beautifully for me and for us.
Now I get carbon dioxide out through my skin and sweat, and the same goes for getting rid of waste gases; that's why it's so easy for me to breathe on my own. Inside, I have a supplement — a special substance that helps me relax during birth. But I won’t need much of it until then, so it’s very important for me to rest and stay calm.
My skin will become much softer, and my protective oils will increase — I’m getting ready for a new life! My bones are strong but flexible — that’s important for a smooth birth. If I’m not in the right position yet, the doctors will help me out with that.
Thank you for caring about me and loving me. I really look forward to meeting you and I’ll be close by soon!
Hug me tight,
Your little pineapple 🍍❤️
What to Expect With Yourself
Sensations:
Every week of pregnancy comes with its own unique feelings. Around the 36th week, a mom-to-be might experience both new sensations and familiar ones. These can include discomfort in the lower back, increased urination and more pressure in the chest. You might also notice cravings for Brockton-Hicks contractions, which are reminiscent of the early labor signs.
Urinary Discharge
Frequent urination in the toilet can be a source of worry for pregnant women, especially as the due date approaches, since the uterus exerts more pressure on the bladder. Many women notice that even a small amount of urine can trigger the urge to go. This is related to decreased bladder volume and more rapid filling. The signals sent to the brain by the organs cause the urge to go. Some women also experience urges to defecate.
Breast Discomfort
As pregnancy progresses, hormonal levels in the body change, impacting how the breasts feel. They can become very sensitive, leaky, and the nipples might be more prominent due to increased blood flow. Many women find that even a gentle touch causes discomfort or pain.
Signs of Preterm Labor
During week 36 of pregnancy, many women start to feel a sudden increase in uterine pressure, develop HELLP syndrome, experience psychological deviations, blood flow issues, and even central nervous system symptoms. Ignoring these signs can lead to the baby being born prematurely, so doctors recommend more rest and avoiding stress.
What Can and Cannot Be Done
In week 36 of pregnancy, it’s important to monitor the woman’s condition constantly to avoid early labor. Do not lift heavy objects or move around in stores searching for baby items. Allow grandma and close relatives to take care of you and your baby.
Medical Examination
Before the baby’s birth, the mom-to-be will need to undergo several examinations to assess her health. This will help in preventing complications and deciding if hospitalization is necessary before labor or an urgent delivery.
Doctors
- Gynecologist: In the last few weeks of pregnancy, pay close attention to any complaints from the woman to avoid missing warning signs of complications. They check the fetus's heartbeat, position, and fundal height.
- Ultrasound: Usually done early in pregnancy, but if needed, additional screenings can be scheduled around the 36th week. This helps determine the baby’s position, amniotic fluid level, and placental condition.
- Biopsy of the uterine organs: Used to identify infectious agents that could cause complications.
Examinations
- Monitoring blood pressure: Routine procedure, performed at each prenatal visit to prevent these issues. It involves measuring the fetus and maternal health indicators.
- Risks of preterm labor: Avoiding them is possible with proper prenatal care, exercising, and staying relaxed to prevent stress.
Discomfort in the Breasts
As pregnancy nears its end, hormonal levels can cause a sudden increase in breast pressure, leaky milk ducts, development of HELLP syndrome, mental deviations, blood supply disruptions, and central nervous system symptoms. Ignoring these signs can lead to the baby being born prematurely, so doctors recommend more rest and avoiding stress.
What Should and Should Not Be Done
In week 36 of pregnancy, stay attentive to signs of potential trouble. Avoid lifting heavy weights, staying in hot baths, or exposing yourself to cold. Keep your diet simple, avoid stress, and try to stay relaxed. Protect yourself from the cold and wind, especially in bad weather, and stay calm to prevent premature labor.
Helpful Tips
Most women, especially expectant moms, tend to feel a lot of nervousness right before their baby's arrival. Healthcare providers will pay special attention to your mental state. You might want to schedule a chat with a psychologist. Instead of worrying, try to focus on relaxing activities, reading your favorite books, listening to calming music, or spending quality time with loved ones. With professional support from your OB-GYN, you'll find everything much easier and less stressful.
Is 36 weeks too long to wait for labor?
- Doctors usually don’t recommend waiting out this week if your pregnancy is uncomplicated (like previous pregnancies). However, recent studies show that babies born in their late 30s (34–36 weeks) might have an increased risk of complications, such as respiratory issues.
Why does my pregnancy feel so firm at 36 weeks?
- You might temporarily feel like your belly is becoming hard at this stage. If this persists for a long time or is accompanied by pain, it’s best to call your doctor right away.
Can I keep active during week 36 of pregnancy?
- It's safe to stay active if you feel good and comfortable. Just keep in mind your working hours, avoid exposure to chemicals or environmental toxins, and listen to your body. Staying active can actually help prepare your body for labor, but always check with your healthcare provider first to avoid any risks related to sex or other activities.
Is it safe to travel during week 36 of pregnancy?
- Long-distance travel around this time isn’t generally recommended, especially if you have any pregnancy complications or previous issues. It’s best to discuss your travel plans with your doctor to ensure it’s safe for both you and your baby.
Can I continue working in week 36 of pregnancy?
- You can keep working if it’s safe and you feel comfortable doing so. Just be mindful of your working hours, avoid exposure to harmful substances or stressful environments, and don’t push yourself too hard. Talk with your doctor to make sure your work situation stays safe for you and your baby during this final stretch of pregnancy.
CHECKLIST
- I’ve been chatting with several experienced moms who want to make sure I’m ready for giving birth. This week, my baby is considered full-term, so anytime could be the moment!
- I discussed my religious community with my religious leader and made plans for a special ceremony after the baby arrives — like a church service or a baptism. Sometimes, family members might need to wait a little longer, too.
- My baby has been born! It’s amazing to see how much my life has changed since then. I also feel that my little one is sitting right on my neck — which, honestly, feels kind of strange on the light. I plan to take a short walk soon, just from the chair to the bathtub.
- Practicing with diapers! My partner and I are both learning how to change them. Thanks to the internet, resources are plentiful.
- I’ve signed up for a visit to the dentist so I can check my teeth before baby is born. Hopefully, the little one will arrive long enough for me not to have to cancel the appointment!
- I’ve made a list of people who will learn first when labor begins, and I’ve added them to a partner’s bag for home delivery. The list includes phone numbers and email addresses so they can get a quick email and call to let them know when the baby’s about to arrive!
