Difficulty sleeping, Braxton Hicks contractions, and baby dropping lower.
You’re 34 weeks pregnant! You’re now in the final stretch, and your baby is getting stronger, practicing breathing, and settling into position for birth. Meanwhile, your body is preparing for labor, and third-trimester symptoms may be increasing.
Let’s explore your baby’s development, changes in your body, and how to manage symptoms at 34 weeks pregnant.
What’s Happening to Your Baby?
At 34 weeks, your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe (30-34 cm or 12-13.5 inches long, head to toe) and weighs around 2,100-2,400 grams (4.6-5.3 lbs). Your little one is gaining fat, strengthening muscles, and preparing for life outside the womb.
Major Developments This Week:
Brain Growth Continues Rapidly! – Baby’s brain is developing more connections, improving learning and memory.
Lungs Are Almost Fully Developed! – Baby is producing more surfactant, helping prepare the lungs for breathing.
Baby’s Reflexes Are Stronger! – Sucking, swallowing, and blinking reflexes are fully developed.
Movements May Feel Different! – Less space means fewer kicks and more stretches and rolls.
Immune System is Strengthening! – Baby is absorbing antibodies from you to help fight infections after birth.
Skin is Smoother! – Baby’s fat deposits are filling in, making their skin less wrinkled.
Baby is Likely Head-Down! – Most babies settle into a head-down position this week in preparation for birth.
What’s Happening to Your Body?
At 34 weeks pregnant, you may experience stronger baby movements, weight gain, and common late-pregnancy symptoms.
Common Symptoms at 34 Weeks Pregnant:
Feeling Baby Movements Regularly! – Movements may feel like rolls and stretches rather than sharp kicks.
Bigger Baby Bump! – Your uterus is now nearly 6 inches above your belly button.
Back Pain & Pelvic Pressure – Baby’s weight is putting more strain on your lower back and hips.
Braxton Hicks Contractions – Mild, irregular contractions may happen more frequently.
Shortness of Breath – Your uterus is pressing on your diaphragm, making breathing harder.
Swelling in Feet & Ankles (Edema) – Fluid retention may cause mild swelling, especially at the end of the day.
Heartburn & Indigestion – Your growing baby may push stomach acid upward, causing reflux.
Leg Cramps & Restless Legs Syndrome – Circulation changes can lead to discomfort, especially at night.
Frequent Urination – Baby’s position and size are pressing on your bladder.
Leaky Breasts (Colostrum Production) – Your body is preparing for breastfeeding.
Fatigue & Trouble Sleeping – Finding a comfortable sleep position may be difficult.
How to Cope with Week 34 Pregnancy Symptoms
1. Tracking Baby’s Movements
Baby should move at least 10 times in 2 hours.
If movements slow down significantly, drink cold water or gently poke your belly.
Contact your doctor if you notice decreased movement.
2. Easing Back Pain & Pelvic Pressure
Use a pregnancy pillow for support.
Wear a belly support band to relieve strain.
Do gentle prenatal yoga or stretches.
3. Managing Braxton Hicks Contractions
Stay hydrated – dehydration can trigger contractions.
Change positions – walking or resting may help.
If contractions become painful or regular, contact your doctor.
4. Relieving Shortness of Breath
Sit and stand up straight to give your lungs more space.
Take slow, deep breaths and avoid overexertion.
Sleep propped up with pillows for better airflow.
5. Reducing Swelling in Feet & Ankles
Elevate your feet when sitting or lying down.
Wear compression socks to improve circulation.
Drink plenty of water to flush out excess fluids.
6. Soothing Heartburn & Indigestion
Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
Avoid spicy, greasy, and acidic foods.
Don’t lie down immediately after eating.
7. Preventing & Treating Leg Cramps
Stretch your legs before bed.
Eat magnesium and calcium-rich foods (bananas, nuts, dairy).
Massage your legs or apply heat if cramps occur.
8. Improving Sleep & Fighting Fatigue
Use a pregnancy pillow to support your belly and legs.
Try sleeping on your left side for better circulation.
Take naps during the day if needed.
9. Preparing for Breastfeeding (If Planning to Nurse)
Wear breast pads if colostrum is leaking.
Read about breastfeeding positions and benefits.
What Should You Be Doing in Week 34?
Since you’re only 6 weeks away from your due date, here’s what to focus on this week:
1. Keep Attending Prenatal Appointments
Your doctor will check your uterus size, baby’s heartbeat, and overall health.
Discuss any concerns about labor, birth, or postpartum recovery.
2. Start Kick Counting Daily
Monitor baby’s movements at the same time each day.
If movements decrease significantly, contact your doctor.
3. Keep Taking Your Prenatal Vitamins
Ensure your vitamin contains 400-800 mcg folic acid for brain and spinal cord development.
A vitamin with DHA & Omega-3s supports baby’s brain growth.
4. Finalize Your Birth Plan
Discuss pain relief options (epidural, natural, etc.) with your doctor.
Look into hospital or birthing center policies.
5. Sign Up for Childbirth & Parenting Classes
Learn about labor, newborn care, and breastfeeding.
Consider partner or support person classes.
6. Prepare for Maternity Leave
Confirm your maternity leave start date and work transition plan.
Make sure all necessary paperwork is completed.
7. Pack Your Hospital Bag
Include comfy clothes, toiletries, baby outfits, and important documents.
Make a checklist of last-minute items to grab before heading to the hospital.
8. Finalize Your Baby Essentials
Ensure you have newborn necessities like diapers, onesies, and a crib.
Install the car seat if you haven’t yet!
Final Thoughts
You’re 34 weeks pregnant and getting closer to meeting your baby! Your baby is growing fast, moving a lot, and preparing for birth. Symptoms like back pain, heartburn, and leg cramps may be increasing, but you’re doing an incredible job!
