“You’ve carried life for nine months—now you’re only weeks away from meeting the little soul who’s been growing inside you.”

Welcome to Week 36 of pregnancy. You’ve officially entered your ninth month, and the end of this incredible journey is within sight. As you count down the final weeks—or possibly days—until your baby’s arrival, your body and mind are preparing in powerful ways.

This week marks a significant shift. Your baby is nearly full-term, your prenatal appointments likely become weekly, and the anticipation becomes more real with every twinge or tightening. Whether you’re feeling ready or overwhelmed (or both), you’re not alone. Let’s explore what this week brings for your body, your baby, and your heart.

Fetal Development at 36 Weeks

Your baby is now about the size of a head of romaine lettuce—measuring roughly 18.5 to 19.5 inches long and weighing about 5.75 to 6.5 pounds (2.6 to 3 kg). They are considered “late preterm” at this point, but they’re getting very close to being full-term, which begins at 37 weeks.

• Growth and Weight: Your baby continues to gain about half a pound per week. That adorable baby fat is helping regulate temperature and blood sugar after birth.
• Lung Maturity: The lungs are nearly developed. If born this week, your baby may still need minimal support but would likely do very well.
• Head Position: Most babies are now head-down in preparation for birth. If not, your provider may discuss external cephalic version (ECV) to encourage turning.
• Shedding Vernix: Your baby is shedding some of the protective vernix caseosa and lanugo hair into the amniotic fluid.
• Brain and Organ Function: While development is mostly complete, fine-tuning continues, especially in the brain and nervous system.

Your Body at 36 Weeks Pregnant

Your uterus is now about 15 inches from top to bottom and sits just below your rib cage. As your baby drops into the pelvis (a process called lightening), you might feel a bit more breathing room—but also more pelvic pressure.

• Frequent Urination: With the baby’s head pressing on your bladder, bathroom trips become even more frequent.
• Pelvic Pressure: You may feel increased heaviness or aching in your lower pelvis or groin.
• Back Pain and Discomfort: Extra weight and shifting posture make back pain common. Continue with gentle stretches or prenatal massages.
• Swelling: Mild swelling in your hands, feet, and ankles is normal. Elevating your legs and staying hydrated can help.
• Braxton Hicks: These practice contractions may intensify. Pay attention to regular patterns—if they become consistent, call your provider.

Emotional Well-Being

Emotions can feel extra heightened this week. You might feel deeply reflective, joyful, nervous, or completely over it—and that’s all valid. Preparing for labor is not just a physical journey; it’s an emotional rite of passage.

Supportive tips for this phase of pregnancy:

• Visualize labor: Take time to meditate or visualize a safe, strong labor experience.
• Communicate with your support team: Go over your birth plan, comfort techniques, and preferences with your partner or doula.
• Talk it out: If anxiety spikes, talk with someone you trust—or a mental health professional.

Preparing for Birth

With labor approaching, preparation helps ease some of the unknown. This week, many providers begin weekly checkups, which may include checking the baby’s position, cervical dilation, and Group B Strep testing.

Things to consider now:

• Finalize your birth plan: Ensure your healthcare provider, birth partner, and hospital have copies.
• Install the car seat: Most hospitals won’t discharge baby without one properly installed.
• Pack your hospital bag: If you haven’t already, pack now. Essentials include clothes, toiletries, chargers, documents, and baby’s first outfit.
• Plan for postpartum support: Think about meals, household help, or emotional support for the early weeks.

Nutrition and Hydration

Your baby’s growth and your body’s preparation for labor demand continued nourishment. Small, frequent meals can help prevent heartburn, and staying hydrated can reduce swelling and support amniotic fluid levels.

• Fiber: Combat constipation with fruits, veggies, whole grains, and legumes.
• Protein: Essential for tissue repair and energy—include eggs, dairy, tofu, and meats.
• Iron: Prevent anemia by eating leafy greens, red meat, or iron-fortified cereals, paired with vitamin C for better absorption.
• Hydration: Aim for 8–10 glasses of water daily. Herbal teas like raspberry leaf (if approved by your provider) may help tone the uterus.

Gentle Movement and Exercise

At this stage of pregnancy, you may feel limited, but gentle activity is still beneficial.

• Pelvic tilts and cat-cow: Can ease back pain and support optimal fetal positioning.
• Walking: Keeps blood flowing and energy levels steady. Aim for short, frequent walks.
• Kegels: Strengthen your pelvic floor to support labor and postpartum recovery.

Signs Labor May Be Near

Labor may still be a few weeks off—or it could start soon. Everyone’s timeline is unique. Watch for signs that labor may be approaching:

• Increased vaginal discharge or mucus plug release
• Regular, timeable contractions (not just Braxton Hicks)
• Low back pain or cramping that doesn’t go away
• Water breaking (a gush or slow trickle of fluid)

Looking Ahead to Week 37

Next week, you’ll officially be full-term! That means your baby is ready to arrive any day—though it’s still completely normal to go several more weeks. Continue checking in with your provider, staying nourished, and resting as much as you can.

You’re almost there. Every moment of this journey has built toward what’s ahead: holding your baby in your arms. Stay patient, stay strong—and we’ll meet you back here for Week 37.