Week 35: Brain Development
The thirty-fifth week is a time of active brain and nervous system development.
Baby size: Honeydew (145-150 mm)
Baby development
Weight Gain and Final Preparations
Your baby is actively accumulating fat, especially on the shoulders. This will help it maintain body temperature after birth.
What’s happening this week:
- Lungs: Surfactant production reaches its peak.
- Kidneys and liver: They are fully developed and functioning.
- Position: Most babies are already in a head‑down position.
- Reflexes: All major reflexes needed for survival are already well developed.
Your fetus weighs about 2.4 kg, and its length is over 46 centimeters.
Changes for mom
Belly drops, breathing easier
The belly dropping into the pelvis is one of the main events this week. It may happen now or closer to labor, especially if this is your first pregnancy.
What you may notice:
- Easier breathing: When the uterus drops, pressure on the diaphragm decreases.
- Increased pressure on the pelvis: You may feel heaviness and pressure in the lower abdomen.
- More frequent bathroom trips: The baby's head presses on the bladder.
- Change in gait: You may start walking with a “rocking” gait due to changes in the pelvic joints.
These and other changes are a normal part of preparing for labor. To learn more, read the article "Physical Changes of the Body During Pregnancy".
Overview
Week 35: Baby Almost Ready!
At the thirty-fifth week, your baby is considered practically full term. Its lungs are almost fully mature, and physical development is complete. The rest of the time it will mainly be gaining weight.
It is now the size of a large cantaloupe. It becomes so snug that you may feel fewer sharp kicks, but more rolling and stretching. Its movements become more measured.
For you, this is a time when the belly drops lower as the baby moves into the pelvis, preparing for birth. This can bring long-awaited relief for your lungs, but increase pressure on the bladder.
Your baby is almost ready to meet you. Enjoy these final weeks, feeling its presence. Every day in the womb is still important for weight gain and final maturation.
You are on the home stretch. To know what to prepare for at this stage, read our detailed overview "Third Trimester: What You Need to Know".
Tips for mom
Final Preparation and Rest
Right now your main priority is rest. Gather your strength before the most important event.
What to do:
- Rest as much as possible. Sleep, read, watch movies. Delegate all possible tasks.
- Check the bag for the delivery. Make sure all documents are in place.
- Take the Group B streptococcus test. It is usually done between weeks 35 and 37. This is a standard and important procedure.
- Eat frequently, but in small portions. This will help manage heartburn and a feeling of fullness.
It is important to be informed about all necessary examinations. Learn more in the article "Tests and Examinations During Pregnancy".
Tips for partner
Readiness is number one
Your role now is to be fully ready to start at any moment and to ensure calm and comfort for your partner.
Your contribution to the joint effort:
- Keep the phone charged and the sound on. Be reachable 24/7.
- Know where the delivery bag is. Make sure both of you know its location.
- Be patient and encourage her. She may be very tired and irritable.
- Help her relax. Massage, a warm bath, calm music — all will help relieve tension.
Your confidence and readiness are the key to her calm. Read the article about signs of labor onset again.
Checklist
Your Action Plan for Week 35
Home stretch!
- ✅ Take the Group B streptococcus test.
- 👜 Put all documents into the hospital bag.
- 😴 Sleep or rest whenever possible.
- 🧘♀️ Practice relaxation and breathing techniques.
- 👶 Install and check the car seat.
- 📚 Refresh knowledge about the postpartum period, by reading the article about "Baby blues and postpartum depression".