35 Weeks Pregnant

Content last reviewed 2026-08-10.

Your baby this week

Baby now weighs about 5.3 pounds and is roughly 18.2 inches long, about the size of a honeydew melon. The brain and lungs are still maturing rapidly — this late-stage brain development is critical, and the brain's weight increases by nearly a third between weeks 35 and 39. Most other organs are fully functional at this point. Baby's kidneys are fully developed and the liver can process some waste products. The arms and legs are plumping up as baby continues to add fat, which will help regulate body temperature after birth.

How you may feel

Breathing may be difficult as the top of your uterus is near your rib cage, compressing your lungs. Eating large meals becomes uncomfortable, so smaller, more frequent meals work much better. Frequent urination intensifies as baby presses harder on your bladder — you might feel like you just went and need to go again. Heartburn and indigestion are common as your digestive system is compressed. You may notice increased vaginal discharge, which is normal as your body prepares for delivery.

Common symptoms

  • Baby may "drop" into your pelvis (lightening) — breathing becomes easier.
  • Pelvic pressure is intense; you may waddle when you walk.
  • Frequent Braxton Hicks contractions can make you wonder if labor has started.
  • Difficulty sleeping — between bathroom trips, heartburn, and finding comfort.

This week's tips

Eat 5-6 small, nutrient-dense meals throughout the day rather than 3 large ones to ease digestive discomfort and keep your energy stable. Focus on protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Make sure you have a pediatrician selected and an appointment scheduled for baby's first checkup. Review the signs of preterm labor: regular contractions, lower back pain, pelvic pressure, and fluid leaking. If you're planning to breastfeed, consider taking a breastfeeding class or meeting with a lactation consultant before delivery.

Eating well

  • Continue eating dates (6 per day) for potential labor benefits.
  • Focus on easily digestible meals — soups, smoothies, and steamed vegetables.
  • Keep healthy snacks accessible — energy bars, fruit, and cheese for quick nutrition.

Nutrition focus

  • Final weeks: continue all prenatal supplements without skipping doses.
  • Ensure adequate hydration (10–12 cups/day) — dehydration can trigger contractions.

Everyday wellbeing

  • Learn the signs of true labor: regular contractions, water breaking, bloody show.
  • Finalize your hospital route — know alternative routes in case of traffic.
  • Rest as much as possible — you are building energy reserves for labor.

For your partner

Know the route to the hospital or birth center — drive it during different times of day so you're aware of traffic patterns. Identify a backup route in case of road closures. Make sure the car has gas and the car seat is properly installed. Discuss with her what she wants you to do if her water breaks or contractions start while you're at work or away from home.

Signs to mention to your provider

  • Contractions that are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour (5-1-1 rule).
  • Heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking a pad) — could indicate placental abruption.
  • Severe, persistent headache with upper abdominal pain — preeclampsia emergency.
Disclaimer: BabyBerry is for general information and self-tracking. It is not a medical device and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

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