34 Weeks Pregnant

Now that you’ve reached 34 weeks pregnant, you will really start to feel the weight. Your little one is around 4.7 pounds already, and almost 18 inches in length. That’s almost an inch growth in a week! There is still some way to go though. A baby is usually around seven pounds at least when born. However, your baby could be born now and will have an excellent chance of survival. You’re just three weeks away from being considered “full-term.” It’s exciting right?

Your Baby’s Development at Pregnancy 34 Weeks

Right now your baby is getting ready to be born. While the skin and fat is developing and the bones are getting harder, your baby should also get into a position to make birthing as easy as possible for you. I say should—and want to emphasize that word. Not all babies turn and get ready. I didn’t, my sister did and my daughter didn’t! My husband and his siblings apparently did though.

Your midwife may talk to you about how far down your baby is moving right now. If your little one hasn’t moved enough, there are chances that discussions about options and c-sections will be had. Not all midwives and doctors do talk about this because there is the hope that you will have a vaginal delivery.

If you’re expecting multiple babies, you want to be ready for the hospital. Most multiple births start early, and 34 weeks pregnant is considered relatively normal. Have your bag packed and make sure your husband/partner knows to be ready.

Right now you may feel less movement from your little one. There is nothing wrong with this. The space inside your womb is getting extremely small, and your little one will struggle to shift. There should still be the odd kick now and then, and those jabs may start to feel painful now depending on where she’s kicking and punching.

If you’re ever worried about movement, stop walking around and rest for about 45 minutes. You should soon feel something to let you know she’s okay. Your midwife will also likely want a weekly checkup to make sure there are no issues.

Changes in You at Pregnancy 34 Weeks

Your bump will be getting bigger, and stretch marks are extremely common. There are a few ways to stop them from getting too bad. Make sure you remain hydrated and use some moisturizing cream on the area. The stretch marks occur because your skin in the middle layers tears. It’s harder to make the marks disappear, so you want to help keep the moisture and flexibility as much as possible.

You may also find that breathing is difficult. The space for your baby is getting cramped, and that means your organs are getting squished. Breathing will be much easier when your baby drops, which happens soon—it could even have happened now. Dropping isn’t painful or dangerous for your little one. It’s just your baby getting ready for delivery.

Symptoms at 34 Weeks Pregnant

The weight of the baby could start to play havoc on your back. Pains in the upper and lower back are extremely common, and you may struggle to get comfortable when standing, sitting and laying down. When you’re trying to sleep, try placing a pillow between your legs and under your bump to give you some extra support.

It could be time to think about maternity leave. Not all expectant mothers bother for another few weeks, and there is no need to do it unless you’re under doctor’s orders. If you work in a job where you’re constantly on your feet, you may want to consider talking to your boss about sitting down more to ease the pressure on your back now and then so you don’t have to stop working just yet.

Fatigue is also extremely common. Your baby is taking all those nutrients your body needs, leaving you with the bare minimum. If you are struggling with fatigue, try eating a little more (but focus on the healthier options) and get rest when you can.

At pregnancy 34 weeks, you’ve not got that long to go. Spend a weekend with your partner. This is one of the last chances you will get before your little one is here taking up all your time.