What to Expect in Weeks 35-to-39 of Pregnancy: Antenatal Care Guide

Weeks 35 to 39 are often a mix of anticipation, excitement, and preparation as you approach your baby’s due date. During this period, your baby completes its final stages of growth and development, and your body undergoes changes to prepare for labour. These weeks also bring a heightened focus on antenatal care, ensuring both you and your baby are ready for a safe delivery.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through what to expect during weeks 35 to 39, including baby development, physical changes, antenatal appointments, and tips for staying physically and emotionally prepared for labour.

Baby’s Development in Weeks 35–39

Week 35: Maturing and Gaining Weight

At week 35, your baby is about 46 cm long and weighs approximately 2.4 kg.

Development Highlights:

The baby’s kidneys and liver are fully functional.

The brain and lungs continue to mature, although they are nearly fully developed.

Fat stores increase, making the baby’s skin smoother.

Week 36: Moving into Position

By week 36, your baby measures around 47 cm and weighs about 2.6 kg. This is often the week when your baby moves into a head-down position, preparing for birth.

Key Changes:

The digestive system, while developed, will remain unused until after birth.

Fingernails and toenails grow to the tips of the fingers and toes.

The baby’s movements may feel more restricted as space becomes tighter.

Week 37: Full Term

At 37 weeks, your baby is officially considered full term, meaning they are likely ready to thrive outside the womb.

What’s Happening:

The baby’s lungs are producing surfactant, which helps them breathe independently after birth.

Hair on the scalp thickens, and the baby continues to swallow amniotic fluid.

Reflexes like grasping and sucking are well developed.

Week 38: Preparing for Birth

By week 38, your baby is about 49 cm long and weighs nearly 3 kg.

Highlights:

The baby practices breathing by inhaling amniotic fluid.

The vernix caseosa (waxy coating) begins to shed but may remain on the skin at birth.

The baby continues to gain about 30 grams per day.

Week 39: Ready to Meet the World

At 39 weeks, your baby is fully developed and ready for birth, typically weighing between 3 and 3.5 kg.

Final Developments:

The brain and lungs undergo the last stages of development, ensuring optimal function.

The baby’s immune system continues to strengthen, receiving antibodies from the mother.

Changes in the Mother During Weeks 35–39

Physical Symptoms

As your body prepares for labour, you may experience several symptoms, including:

Braxton Hicks Contractions: These practice contractions may become more frequent and intense.

Increased Pelvic Pressure: As the baby drops lower into your pelvis, you may feel more pressure.

Swelling: Mild swelling in the ankles and feet is common due to fluid retention.

Fatigue: Carrying extra weight can make you feel more tired.

Emotional Changes

The anticipation of meeting your baby can bring a mix of emotions, such as excitement, anxiety, and impatience. Connecting with a support network, including family, friends, and antenatal classes, can help you navigate these feelings.

Antenatal Care in Weeks 35–39

Antenatal Appointments

Regular antenatal appointments during these weeks are critical for monitoring your baby’s health and preparing for labour.

What to Expect:

Blood pressure and urine tests to check for conditions like pre-eclampsia.

Palpation of your abdomen to determine the baby’s position.

Discussions about signs of labour and when to go to the hospital.

Group B Strep Screening

In the UK, screening for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) may be recommended if you have certain risk factors. GBS is a common bacterium that can sometimes cause complications during delivery.

Preparing for Labour and Delivery

1. Antenatal Classes

Attending antenatal classes near me can help you feel more prepared for the birthing process.

What You’ll Learn:

Pain management techniques during labour.

Different stages of labour and what to expect.

Tips for breastfeeding and newborn care.

2. Packing Your Hospital Bag

By week 35, it’s a good idea to have your hospital bag packed and ready.

Essentials to Include:

Comfortable clothing and toiletries for yourself.

Baby clothes, nappies, and blankets.

Important documents, such as your antenatal care records.

3. Creating a Birth Plan

Your birth plan can outline your preferences for pain relief, birthing positions, and who will be present during labour. Discuss this plan with your healthcare provider during antenatal appointments.

Staying Healthy and Relaxed

1. Antenatal Yoga

Antenatal yoga is a gentle way to stay active and prepare your body for labour.

Benefits:

Improves posture and strengthens pelvic muscles.

Promotes relaxation through breathing exercises.

Reduces common discomforts like back pain and swelling.

Many local studios and online platforms offer yoga for pregnancy classes designed for all experience levels.

2. Antenatal Massage

Prenatal massage can provide relief from physical discomfort and promote mental well-being.

Key Benefits:

Alleviates lower back pain and muscle tension.

Enhances circulation and reduces swelling.

Provides a sense of calm and relaxation during pregnancy.

3. Prioritising Nutrition

Your baby’s growth during these weeks requires optimal nutrition.

Nutrients to Focus On:

Iron: To support increased blood volume and prevent anaemia.

Calcium: For the development of your baby’s bones and teeth.

Protein: To aid muscle development and overall growth.

Hydration Tip: Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily to prevent dehydration.

Recognising Signs of Labour

Early Signs

Labour typically starts with subtle signs that indicate your body is preparing for birth:

Regular and increasingly intense contractions.

Loss of the mucus plug.

A “bloody show” or light spotting.

When to Contact Your Antenatal Clinic

Call your antenatal clinic or hospital if:

Your water breaks.

Contractions are five minutes apart and last for at least one minute.

You experience heavy bleeding or severe pain.

Key Milestones to Celebrate

Reaching Full Term: At 37 weeks, your baby is fully developed and ready for birth.

Attending Antenatal Classes: Gaining confidence and knowledge for labour and newborn care.

Finalising Preparations: Completing your hospital bag and setting up the nursery can bring a sense of readiness.

Controversial Topics: Elective Inductions at 39 Weeks

Induction of labour at 39 weeks has gained attention in recent years. While some studies suggest that elective inductions can reduce the risk of stillbirth and complications, others argue that unnecessary interventions should be avoided unless medically indicated. It’s essential to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider during antenatal appointments.

Conclusion

Weeks 35 to 39 of pregnancy are a time of anticipation, preparation, and growth. By focusing on antenatal care, staying active with practices like antenatal yoga, and preparing for labour through education and planning, you can approach this stage with confidence. Remember to stay connected with your healthcare provider for any concerns and celebrate each milestone as you move closer to meeting your baby.

Sources

NHS. “Your Pregnancy and Baby Guide: Week-by-Week Timeline.” NHS UK

Mayo Clinic. “Third Trimester Pregnancy Care.” Mayo Clinic

Tommy’s. “Recognising Labour Signs and Symptoms.” Tommy’s UK

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. “Preparing for Birth.” RCOG

American Pregnancy Association. “Prenatal Fitness and Wellness.” American Pregnancy Association

Birthrights. “Elective Inductions at Full Term.” Birthrights