36th week of pregnancy Week
And here we are in the last four weeks! 🎉 Excitement is at its peak, because the baby’s development is largely complete and can give birth signals at any moment. Your belly has grown, your movements have become more difficult, but it’s almost here! This week is a great time to complete your birth preparations, go to your doctor’s check-ups more often, and take a little more care of yourself. So, what awaits you in the 36th week? Let’s see! 👇
📌 Week 36 Highlights
✔ Congratulations! The countdown to delivery has begun—only 4 weeks to go! But remember, no one can predict exactly when your baby will arrive. ⏳
✔ The little one has almost reached his birth weight! He may weigh around 2.7 kg on average. He is growing and getting stronger every day.
✔ Your doctor’s appointments are now weekly! If you haven’t been tested for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) , you probably will be this week. Just a gentle vaginal and rectal swab—don’t make a big deal out of it! If you test positive, you can protect your baby by taking antibiotics during labor.
✔ Review your birth plan! 🚗 Plan how you will get to the hospital, who will drive you. Install your baby’s car seat , check your hospital bag and, if you are working, determine what tasks you need to delegate to your colleagues.
✔ Enjoy the last romantic moments! ❤️ Try to have a meal or a quiet evening alone with your partner. Soon you will both be busy with sleepless nights! 😴 💖
👶 Baby’s Development in the 36th Week
Your baby is literally getting ready for life! 🌎 As of this week, the liver and kidneys have started working at full capacity, and the circulatory and immune systems are ready to adapt to the world after birth. 🏆
💨 Ready to breathe! Although the baby’s lungs are still developing, they are getting closer to being able to breathe on their own after birth.
🧴 His skin has become much smoother. He is shedding most of the lanugo hair that covers his body, making the final touches to have a skin as soft as cotton at birth.
🍼 Ready to feed! One of the biggest developments is that his natural instinct to suckle is fully developed. His belly is now ready to digest breast milk or formula. Because this will be his only source of nutrition for the first six months after birth.
Your baby is almost ready for the moment of birth and can’t wait to see you every day! 💖 ✨
📏 Baby Size – 36. Week
Your baby is now the size of a papaya ! 🌿 He is about 45-48 cm tall and weighs around 2.6 kg . He looks like a real little human now and continues to gain weight quickly.
📅 How Many Months is 36 Weeks Pregnant?
🎉 Congratulations, you are now 9 months pregnant! 🎉 You are in the last 4 weeks of pregnancy. Everyone thinks pregnancy lasts 9 months, but it is actually 40 weeks , a little longer!
📸 Week 36 Ultrasound and Check-ups
At this week’s prenatal checkup, your doctor may check your baby’s position . He or she is now expected to be head down . If he or she is still bottom down, in a breech position , your doctor may try turning your baby from the outside. 🤰 🔄
💡 External Cephalic Version (ECV)
🔹 The doctor may try to turn the baby by applying gentle pressure to the abdomen .
🔹 Ultrasound is used during the procedure and the baby’s heartbeat is closely monitored.
🔹 It can be slightly uncomfortable, but it is generally safe and has a success rate of more than 50% .
🦠 What is Group B Strep Test (GBS)?
This week, you may be tested for Group B Strep (GBS) . This test checks for a common bacteria that can harm your baby during birth. 🦠
💉 How is the test done?
✔ The doctor takes a swab sample from the vaginal and rectal area .
✔ If it is positive , you will receive antibiotics intravenously during delivery and this will protect the baby.
📌 Don’t worry! It is a bacteria found in approximately 1 in 4 women and the risk is almost completely eliminated with antibiotic treatment.
👶 Extra Tests for Those Expecting Twins or Those in High-Risk Groups
If you are 36 weeks pregnant and expecting twins , or if you have high blood pressure , kidney or heart disease, your doctor may order a biophysical profile test (BPP) .
📸 What is BPP?
🩺 It is a combination of ultrasound and non-stress test (NST) . The baby’s heartbeat, movements and the amount of amniotic fluid are evaluated. The goal is to see if the baby is doing well inside.
Has the Baby Completed Its Development in the 36th Week?
The baby is almost fully developed and will be ready to come into the world very soon. However, at 36 weeks, there is still a bit more growth to be had. During this time, the baby needs to gain more weight and the brain, lungs, liver and other organs need time to fully mature. So, it is best for him to remain in the womb for a few more weeks if possible.
Symptoms You May Experience in Week 36 of Pregnancy 🤰
With only four weeks left until birth, the changes in your body are all about your baby growing and preparing for birth! Here are the common pregnancy symptoms at 36 weeks:
✨ Breathe Easier : As your baby descends into your pelvis, your lungs are finally getting a little more comfortable! This can help relieve some of that shortness of breath you’ve been experiencing for a long time. Oh boy!
💥 Pelvic Discomfort : Although your baby’s descent may make it easier for you to breathe, it can also put pressure on your pelvis, causing pain. This pressure may be a sign that labor is approaching, but if you feel regular and intense contractions, let your doctor know.
🌙 Sleep Problems : Waking up at 3am wanting to organize your closets? Yes, pregnancy insomnia is real! Do your best to rest, create routines that help you unwind, and take naps whenever you can.
🔥 Heartburn : Your baby is now putting more pressure on your stomach and intestines. The slowing down of your digestive system can cause heartburn. You can use antacids approved by your doctor, but taking a light walk after meals can also help you relax.
👣 Swelling in Feet and Legs : You may notice that your feet and legs are swollen, especially at the end of the day. While this is completely normal, you should consult your doctor if you notice sudden and extreme swelling, as it could be a sign of a serious condition like preeclampsia.
🩸 Changes in Vaginal Discharge : You may notice an increase in your vaginal discharge this week. However, if you notice a watery discharge, this could be amniotic fluid and you should call your doctor immediately! Slightly bloody or mucous-like discharge could be the mucus plug falling out, indicating that labor is getting closer.
🤰 Braxton Hicks Contractions : If you feel tightness in your abdomen frequently, these are Braxton Hicks contractions. However, severe cramps that feel like period pain at 36 weeks are not normal. Call your doctor to see if they are real labor pains.
36th Week of Pregnancy Pregnancy Image and Mother’s Belly 🤰
By week 36, your belly may not seem to be changing much from previous weeks. You may have gained between 11 and 16 kg in total by now. (Of course, this may vary depending on your starting BMI.) Moving around may be a bit more difficult now, and your walk may have become more of a “duck walk.” 🦆
If you are 36 weeks pregnant with twins , you have probably gained between 16 and 20 kg . Your baby’s space in your belly has narrowed! While most twin pregnancies end in birth at 36 weeks , some babies can stay inside for a few more weeks. If labor pains have not started and your doctor does not think any intervention is necessary, your baby staying inside for a few more weeks will be a great advantage for the development of their lungs and other organs.
It is completely normal to feel heavier and bulkier during these weeks! But remember, every passing day you are one step closer to birth and it is definitely worth the wait for that little miracle you will hold in your arms at the end of this process! 💕 ✨
36th Week of Pregnancy Signs of Labor 🚼
It’s almost time to meet your baby! There are some key signs that labor is starting at 36 weeks . If your water breaks—whether it’s a trickle or a sudden release—it could be a sign that your baby is ready to go. 🚰 Regular contractions (real contractions, not Braxton Hicks!) are another telltale sign that labor is starting. Lower back pain , especially if it’s constant and getting worse, could also be a sign that labor is starting.
The signs of labor at 36 weeks pregnant can easily be confused with the normal discomforts of pregnancy. So if you experience any unusual pain, regular contractions, or anything that feels different, be sure to let your doctor know! Even if it’s a false alarm, you’ll just have to go home and wait a little longer. The important thing is that you and your baby are safe. 💕
Is It Safe to Give Birth at 36 Weeks? 🍼
While the ideal scenario would be for your baby to stay in for a few more weeks , the vast majority of babies born at 36 weeks are perfectly healthy. However, this is still considered late preterm labor and there may be some minor health risks, such as low birth weight or respiratory distress . Fortunately, your doctor and hospital staff will be there to help make sure your baby gets off to a healthy start. Rest assured, your baby is your greatest miracle, no matter when they’re born! 💖 ✨
Tips for 36 Weeks Pregnant 💡
Do you feel like these weeks are going by in slow motion? ⏳ We know you’re impatient, but it’s almost here! You’re so close to meeting your baby. Here are some suggestions to help you relax and enjoy your time in week 36:
Avoid spicy foods 🌶️
Craving chips and salsa? If heartburn bothers you, it might be a good idea to hold off on that craving. Heavily spicy, fried or acidic foods (such as citrus fruits and vinegar) can trigger heartburn. If you choose lighter foods, you won’t have to spend the night struggling with heartburn.
Have dinner early ⏰
Eating late at night can both disrupt your sleep pattern by straining your digestive system and trigger heartburn. Finishing your dinner at least 2-3 hours in advance will help you get through the night more comfortably.
Put your feet up 🦶
Swelling in your feet and ankles may be inevitable these weeks , but you can lie down and elevate your feet with a pillow to get some relief. This will help regulate blood circulation, reduce swelling, and make you feel a little lighter.
Try a supportive pregnancy band 🤰
As your baby gradually begins to descend, you may feel pressure in your pelvic area. You can help relieve this pressure by using a supportive pregnancy band or belt. But be careful not to wear it too tight or for too long , as it is important not to block blood circulation.
36 Weeks Pregnant Checklist ✅
As of this week , there are only four weeks left until the birth! ⏳ Now is the time to make the final preparations to make sure everything is ready. Here are the important reminders you need to complete this week:
📌 Schedule your 37th week prenatal appointment 🏥
Your doctor appointments will now continue weekly . Don’t forget to make an appointment for next week!
📌 Finalize your maternity leave plan 📝
Clarify your maternity leave plan regarding your workplace or work arrangements. It may be a good idea to give updates to those you will be passing work to .
📌 Prepare your birth playlist 🎶
Create a playlist of songs that will motivate, calm or make you feel good during labor. Whether it’s relaxing classical music or your favorite energizing songs, the choice is up to you!
📌 Learn to use baby items 👶
How to open and close the stroller? How to attach the carrier or sling? Learning about baby equipment before birth will help you move comfortably without panicking in the future.
All these preparations will help you feel more peaceful and secure before the birth. It’s almost time, you’re doing a great job! 💖 ✨
