Week 35 of Pregnancy
At 35 weeks pregnant, your baby is continuing to mature and prepare for birth. Their lungs and brain are developing rapidly, and they’re gaining weight steadily. You might notice your body feeling heavier as your belly grows bigger, and your energy levels may fluctuate. This is a great time to finalize your birth plan and ensure your hospital bag is ready.
Baby’s Size
Your baby is about the size of a pumpkin.
Baby’s Development at 35 weeks
Lung Maturation
Your baby’s lungs are almost fully developed, producing surfactant, a substance that helps them breathe easily after birth. This means they’re getting ready for life outside the womb.
Rapid brain development continues, increasing your baby’s ability to regulate body temperature and coordinate reflexes. This is a crucial period for neural connections.
Brain Growth
Fat Accumulation
Your baby is gaining layers of fat under their skin, which helps regulate body temperature after birth and gives them a smooth, plump appearance.
Positioning
Most babies settle into a head-down position by now, preparing for delivery, but some may still move around, so keep an eye on fetal movement patterns.
Pregnancy Symptoms during Week 35
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You may feel more frequent practice contractions, which help your body prepare for labor but are usually irregular and painless.
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As your uterus expands upward, it can press against your diaphragm, making breathing feel a bit more difficult. Taking slow, deep breaths can help.
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Your feet and ankles might swell more due to increased fluid retention and pressure on blood vessels; elevating your legs can provide relief.
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It’s normal to feel tired as your body works hard supporting your growing baby; rest when you can and avoid overexertion.
Pregnancy checklist at 35 weeks pregnant
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Review and discuss your preferences with your care provider and support person, including pain management options and labor support.
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Ensure essentials like comfy clothes, snacks, birth plan, ID, and baby clothes are ready for the hospital stay.
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Set up your car seat and practice securing it properly; many hospitals require this before discharge.
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Keep tracking your baby’s kicks and activity daily; contact your healthcare provider if you notice any significant decrease.
35 Weeks Pregnant Belly
By week 35, your belly is noticeably larger, rounder, and firmer as your baby rapidly gains weight in preparation for birth. You may feel your bump becoming heavier and more forward-facing, and many people find it increasingly difficult to move around without fatigue or shortness of breath. As your baby drops lower into the pelvis, a process often called "lightening", you may experience a change in how your belly looks and feels.
This lightening can bring some welcome relief, such as less pressure on your ribs and lungs, making it a bit easier to breathe. However, this shift in your baby’s position often leads to increased pelvic pressure or discomfort, especially when standing or walking. Some people also feel more frequent urges to urinate due to the added pressure on the bladder.
Your belly’s shape and appearance may change depending on your baby’s position and your unique body type. Some bellies sit high, others appear more low and compact, it’s all perfectly normal. You might also notice more defined kicks, rolls, or rhythmic hiccups from the outside, especially during quiet moments.
Continue using supportive maternity wear, such as a belly band, and consider adjusting how you sit or sleep to reduce pelvic tension. Staying hydrated, gently stretching, and taking frequent breaks can all help you manage this phase more comfortably as you get closer to delivery.
Tips & Resources
Relaxation Techniques for Labour: Practice breathing and relaxation exercises from ChildbirthU’s free guide to stay calm and focused during labor.
Partner Support Guide: Share the partner support strategies to help your birth companion prepare for their role in labor and delivery.
Hospital Packing List: Download this free handout to double-check you have everything needed for your hospital stay.
Safe Sleep & Tips for Newborns: Familiarize yourself with safe sleep recommendations to prepare your home for your baby’s arrival.