More pressure on the bladder, increased back pain, and baby gaining weight.
You’re 35 weeks pregnant! With just five weeks to go, your baby is growing fast, strengthening their body, and making final preparations for birth. Meanwhile, your body is getting ready for labor, and third-trimester symptoms may be reaching their peak.
Let’s explore your baby’s development, changes in your body, and how to manage symptoms at 35 weeks pregnant.
What’s Happening to Your Baby?
At 35 weeks, your baby is about the size of a honeydew melon (31-35 cm or 12.5-14 inches long, head to toe) and weighs around 2,400-2,700 grams (5.3-6 lbs). Your little one is almost fully developed and getting ready for birth!
Major Developments This Week:
Brain Development is Nearly Complete! – Baby’s brain is fully formed, and they’re learning, processing sounds, and recognizing voices.
Lungs Are Almost Ready! – Surfactant production is high, helping baby’s lungs function properly after birth.
Fat Deposits Continue to Increase! – Baby is filling out and regulating body temperature better.
Movements May Feel Different! – As space gets tighter, you’ll feel more rolls, nudges, and pressure rather than sharp kicks.
Digestive System is Fully Developed! – Baby is swallowing amniotic fluid and practicing digestion.
Baby is Likely Head-Down! – Most babies have settled into the head-down position in preparation for birth.
What’s Happening to Your Body?
At 35 weeks pregnant, you may experience stronger baby movements, increased weight gain, and common third-trimester symptoms.
Common Symptoms at 35 Weeks Pregnant:
Feeling Baby’s Movements More Frequently! – You may feel more stretches and rolls than sharp kicks.
Bigger Baby Bump! – Your uterus is now pushing up near your ribcage.
Back Pain & Pelvic Pressure – Baby’s weight is putting more strain on your lower back and hips.
Braxton Hicks Contractions – Mild, irregular contractions are becoming more common.
Shortness of Breath – Your uterus is pressing against your diaphragm.
Swelling in Feet & Ankles (Edema) – Fluid retention may cause mild swelling, especially after standing.
Heartburn & Indigestion – Your growing baby may push stomach acid upward, causing reflux.
Leg Cramps & Restless Legs Syndrome – Circulation changes can trigger discomfort, especially at night.
Frequent Urination – Baby’s position and size are putting pressure on your bladder.
Leaky Breasts (Colostrum Production) – Your body is producing early breast milk.
Fatigue & Trouble Sleeping – Finding a comfortable sleeping position is getting harder.
How to Cope with Week 35 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 35?
Since you’re only 5 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 35 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!
