Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Baby Development at 36 Weeks
- Common Pregnancy Symptoms at 36 Weeks
- Preparing for Labor and Delivery
- Coping with Late Pregnancy Discomforts
- When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
- Prenatal Care at 36 Weeks
- Breech Presentation and External Cephalic Version (ECV)
- Preparing for a Late Preterm Birth
- Conclusion
- References
Introduction
Welcome to the 36th week of your pregnancy! As you approach the final weeks of your third trimester, your body and your baby are undergoing significant changes in preparation for labor and delivery. This comprehensive guide will walk you through your baby's development, common symptoms you may experience, and essential steps to take as you prepare for your little one's arrival.
Baby Development at 36 Weeks
Size and Weight
At 36 weeks, your baby is approximately the size of a head of romaine lettuce, measuring about 18.62 inches (47.3 cm) from head to toe and weighing around 6.20 pounds (2.8 kg) 12.
Lung Development
Your baby's lungs are now fully developed and ready for the outside world. When your newborn takes their first breath after delivery, their lungs will expand, and any remaining fluid will be replaced with air 3.
Bone Development
Your baby's bones are continuing to harden, although they remain softer than an adult's bones. Some bones are still made entirely of flexible cartilage, which will gradually be replaced by bone throughout childhood 4.
Meconium Production
As your baby sheds their lanugo (downy hair) and vernix caseosa (protective waxy coating), they swallow these substances along with other secretions, creating a blackish mixture called meconium. This will form your baby's first few bowel movements after birth 5.
| Development Area | 36 Weeks Pregnant |
|---|---|
| Length | 18.62 inches |
| Weight | 6.20 pounds |
| Lungs | Fully developed, ready for first breath |
| Bones | Hardening, but still softer than adult bones |
| Meconium | Forming in intestines, will be first bowel movements |
Common Pregnancy Symptoms at 36 Weeks
Cramping
Mild cramping throughout pregnancy is normal and usually harmless, often caused by issues like bloating, constipation, round ligament pain, or Braxton Hicks contractions. However, if you experience regular, painful contractions or cramping accompanied by other signs of labor, contact your healthcare provider 5.
Headaches
Hormonal changes, dehydration, and sleep problems can contribute to increased headaches or migraines during pregnancy. While self-care measures like staying hydrated and getting rest can help, severe or sudden headaches may indicate a more serious condition and should be reported to your healthcare provider 5.
Vaginal Discharge
Changes in vaginal discharge are common as labor approaches. A thick glob of mucus (mucus plug) or bloody discharge (bloody show) may indicate the early stages of labor. If you suspect your water has broken due to a continuous leak or gush of clear, yellowish fluid, contact your healthcare provider immediately 5.
Dizziness
Cardiovascular changes during pregnancy can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness. To prevent fainting or falling, avoid standing up too quickly, lying flat on your back, and overheating. If you experience persistent or frequent dizziness, inform your healthcare provider 5.
Pelvic Pain
About one in four pregnant women experience pelvic pain, often beginning in the third trimester. Hormonal changes, weight gain, and a shifting center of gravity can contribute to this discomfort. Pregnancy support belts, physical therapy, acupuncture, and acetaminophen may help alleviate pelvic pain 5.
Baby Dropping (Lightening)
As your baby drops lower into your pelvis, you may feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen and pelvis, making walking and moving more uncomfortable. This can also lead to lightning crotch, a sharp pain or jolt in the pelvis or vagina caused by the baby's head pressing on nerves. On the positive side, you may experience some relief from shortness of breath and heartburn as your baby moves away from your diaphragm 5.
Preparing for Labor and Delivery
Packing Your Hospital Bag
Essential Items for Mom
- Insurance card and hospital paperwork
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, deodorant, etc.)
- Comfortable clothing (nightgowns, robes, slippers, socks)
- Nursing bras and pads
- Going-home outfit
- Phone charger and entertainment (books, music, etc.)
- Snacks and drinks for after labor
Essential Items for Baby
- Going-home outfit
- Warm blankets or swaddles
- Car seat (installed in your vehicle)
Items to Leave at Home
- Jewelry and valuables
- Large amounts of cash
- Diapers, wipes, and other baby care items (provided by the hospital)
Knowing When to Call Your Healthcare Provider
Review the signs of labor with your healthcare provider and follow their guidelines for when to call or head to the hospital or birth center. These instructions may vary based on your individual situation, such as having a high-risk pregnancy, planning a cesarean delivery, or living far from the hospital 5.
Preparing Meals for Postpartum
If you enjoy cooking, consider doubling recipes and freezing half to have easy, homemade meals on hand after your baby's arrival 5.
Choosing a Pediatrician
If you haven't already, now is the time to select a pediatrician for your baby. Ask potential providers about their availability, office hours, insurance acceptance, and hospital affiliations 5.
Coping with Late Pregnancy Discomforts
Managing Cramping and Pelvic Pain
Engage in gentle exercises, use a pregnancy support belt, and try relaxation techniques to help alleviate cramping and pelvic pain. If pain is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider 5.
Relieving Headaches
Practice self-care measures like staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, and managing stress to help prevent or relieve headaches. If you experience severe, sudden, or persistent headaches, or headaches accompanied by other symptoms, contact your healthcare provider 5.
Dealing with Dizziness
To minimize dizziness, avoid standing up too quickly, lying flat on your back, and overheating. Stay hydrated and eat regularly. If you experience frequent or severe dizziness, inform your healthcare provider 5.
Using Maternity Support Belts
Maternity support belts or belly bands can help alleviate back pain, pelvic pain, and discomfort by lifting your belly, improving your posture, and providing support to your back and hips. Many of these bands can also be used during the postpartum period 5.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Signs of Labor
Call your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following signs of labor 5:
- Regular, painful contractions that become more frequent and intense
- Lower back pain that doesn't go away
- Vaginal bleeding or increased discharge
- A gush or trickle of fluid (indicating your water has broken)
Symptoms of Preeclampsia
Be aware of the symptoms of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication that typically develops after 20 weeks. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience 5:
- Severe headaches
- Vision changes (blurred vision, sensitivity to light, temporary vision loss)
- Upper abdominal pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sudden swelling in your face, hands, or feet
- Sudden weight gain
- Difficulty breathing
Other Concerning Symptoms
In addition to the signs of labor and preeclampsia, contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following 5:
- Decreased fetal movement
- Severe cramping or abdominal pain
- Persistent dizziness or fainting
- Any other concerning symptoms or changes in your health
Prenatal Care at 36 Weeks
Weekly Prenatal Visits
From 36 weeks until delivery, you'll typically have weekly prenatal checkups with your healthcare provider. These visits allow for close monitoring of your health and your baby's well-being 5.
Monitoring for Complications
During your prenatal visits, your healthcare provider will check your blood pressure, weight, and urine, and watch for signs of complications such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes 5.
Discussing Labor and Delivery Preferences
Use these visits to discuss your labor and delivery preferences, ask questions, and address any concerns you may have about the upcoming birth 5.
Breech Presentation and External Cephalic Version (ECV)
If your baby is in a breech position (bottom-down) at 36 weeks, your healthcare provider may recommend an external cephalic version (ECV). This procedure involves applying pressure to your abdomen to encourage the baby to turn head-down. ECV is typically performed in a hospital setting, where your baby's heart rate can be monitored and emergency care is available if needed 5.
Preparing for a Late Preterm Birth
If you give birth at 36 weeks, your baby will be considered late preterm. While these babies generally have the same chances of being healthy as full-term infants, they may require additional monitoring and support in the first days and weeks after birth. Discuss the potential challenges and care requirements of a late preterm baby with your healthcare provider 5.
Conclusion
As you navigate the 36th week of your pregnancy, remember to prioritize self-care, stay informed about your baby's development, and don't hesitate to reach out to your support system and healthcare provider with any concerns. By preparing for labor, delivery, and the possibility of a late preterm birth, you'll be better equipped to welcome your little one into the world with confidence and joy.
References
Footnotes
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Hadlock, F. P., Harrist, R. B., & Martinez-Poyer, J. (1991). In utero analysis of fetal growth: A sonographic weight standard. Radiology, 181(1), 129-133. https://doi.org/10.1148/radiology.181.1.1887021 ↩
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Vintzileos, A. M., Campbell, W. A., Rodis, J. F., Bors-Koefoed, R., & Nochimson, D. J. (1984). The ultrasound femur length as a predictor of fetal length. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 64(6), 779-782. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6390277/ ↩
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MedlinePlus (ADAM). (2023). Fetal development. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002398.htm ↩
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Nemours KidsHealth. (n.d.). Your Bones. https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/bones.html ↩
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American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2024). How your fetus grows during pregnancy. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-your-fetus-grows-during-pregnancy ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9 ↩10 ↩11 ↩12 ↩13 ↩14 ↩15 ↩16 ↩17 ↩18 ↩19 ↩20 ↩21 ↩22