Pregnancy: Week 35

Your baby inside the womb is now fully “mature” — all organs are formed and functioning. Very soon the baby will begin to descend into the pelvic area, and the mother’s breathing will finally become easier. The thirty-fifth week means the mother is in full readiness mode. Always carry your maternity card with you, make sure your phone is charged, and that you have sufficient balance — even if it seems early, it is better to be prepared.

Pregnancy week 35 – baby’s weight
From week 35, the baby begins gaining about 200–220 grams per week. The baby is now quite strong: weight is around 2.4–2.6 kg, and length is approximately 46–47 cm. At 35 weeks, the baby has outgrown the “home” that has served him for months — space is becoming tight, and free movements are limited. Somersaults now resemble slow rolling movements. You may enjoy watching different parts of the baby’s body gently protrude through the belly.

The baby’s fingernails have grown long enough that, even in the womb, the baby may accidentally scratch himself.

At this stage, fine body hair disappears, while fatty tissue continues to accumulate. Fat especially gathers around the shoulder area — a sign that the baby’s shoulders are developing properly.

Finding a comfortable position
The 35th week of pregnancy is the period when babies choose the final position they will maintain until birth.

Most babies between 35–36 weeks assume the correct position: head down, facing the mother’s back. This is called the cephalic (head-down) position. The skull bones are not yet fully fused and can slightly change shape while passing through the birth canal, making labor easier. This position is both natural and optimal for the baby, and the curled posture at this stage is completely normal.

If your baby has not turned yet, do not panic — labor can still proceed successfully. Experienced obstetricians know how to manage such situations.

Pregnancy week 35 – sensations
The belly has grown significantly and causes many difficulties. The enlarged uterus presses on the stomach and almost flattens the lungs, resting against the diaphragm. Be patient — by the end of week 35, the baby will begin to descend, and breathing will become much easier.

For now, if breathing feels particularly difficult, try this simple exercise: get on your knees and hands, and take several slow, deep breaths.

The fundus of the uterus is now 15 cm above the navel and 35 cm above the pubic symphysis. The navel may protrude — this is normal at this stage. The baby is actively drawing calcium from the mother’s body, so be sure to include whole milk and dairy products in your diet.

Pregnancy week 35 – a hard belly
At this advanced stage, discomfort is common. Many women experience leg pain or pulling sensations in the lower abdomen. The baby has grown large, space is limited, and the abdomen often feels tight. Some women may notice that the belly becomes very hard, legs swell, and fatigue increases — all of which can be exhausting.

However, these symptoms can be reduced or even avoided. Simple measures help: avoid prolonged sitting, walk every 10–20 minutes, limit excessive fluid intake to reduce swelling, and perform light prenatal exercises in the morning and throughout the day. Proper, small-portion meals are also important.

Pregnancy week 35 – childbirth
The baby is considered “mature” and looks like a newborn waiting for birth. Although delivery at 35 weeks is not considered full-term, there is no reason for panic. The main task now is not to miss warning signs. If you experience sudden lower back pain that becomes rhythmic, notice any discharge, or feel that your abdomen has become rock-hard, contact your doctor immediately. Even if labor begins at this stage, in most cases everything goes well, and the long-awaited baby will soon be in the mother’s arms.

A calm pregnancy
Week 35 is a time for maximum calmness and positive emotions. If fears related to childbirth arise, try to dismiss them immediately. In the evenings, watch pleasant movies, listen to calming music, and continue singing lullabies — babies love hearing their mother’s voice.

Be confident: everything will be fine. Your pregnancy is nearing its end. Enjoy these precious days. If you feel uncertain, consider attending prenatal classes for expectant mothers.

Being among others helps boost confidence, and such classes also provide valuable knowledge on how to behave during labor, helping you feel calmer and more confident when the time comes.