Pregnancy Week 34
Your baby is continuing to gain weight and mature this week. The brain and nervous system are becoming more developed, the lungs are getting closer to maturity, and your baby is accumulating more body fat. Your baby’s movements remain an important part of this stage of pregnancy.
Your Baby This Week
Brain & Nervous System Maturity
Your baby’s brain continues to grow and develop rapidly. The nervous system is becoming increasingly mature and is helping your baby coordinate movements and respond to sounds and other sensations.
Brain development will continue throughout the remainder of pregnancy and after birth.
Lung Development
Your baby’s lungs continue maturing during week 34. The airways and tiny structures needed for breathing are becoming more developed, while surfactant production continues.
The lungs are approaching greater maturity, but they still continue developing during the final weeks of pregnancy.
More Body Fat
Your baby continues accumulating fat beneath the skin. This makes the body appear fuller and helps provide energy and regulate body temperature after birth.
Developing Senses
Your baby’s senses continue becoming more refined. Hearing is well developed, and your baby can respond to sounds and familiar voices.
Your baby’s eyes can open and close, and the pupils can respond to changes in light.
Maturing & Growing
Your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe. The brain and nervous system continue maturing while the lungs develop and the body gains more fat and weight.
Your Body This Week
Your body continues preparing for the final weeks of pregnancy.
Growing Belly
Your uterus continues expanding as your baby gains weight. You may find that everyday movements and certain positions are becoming less comfortable.
Stronger Baby Movements
Your baby's movements may feel strong and more predictable. Although there is less room for large movements, you should continue noticing your baby's usual activity.
Increased Pressure
As your baby grows, you may feel increased pressure on your bladder and pelvis, which can make you need to urinate more frequently.
Heartburn & Indigestion
Heartburn and indigestion may continue as the growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach.
Tips for week 34
- Continue taking your prenatal vitamin every day
- Eat balanced meals with protein, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats.
- Include iron-rich foods regularly.
- Choose calcium-rich foods to support your baby's developing bones.
- Include healthy sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Eat smaller meals if heartburn or indigestion is bothering you.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating if it worsens heartburn.
- Continue pregnancy-safe physical activity if approved by your healthcare professional.
- Take regular breaks and rest when you feel tired.
- Use pillows to support your abdomen, back, and legs while sleeping.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs.
- Limit caffeine to 200 mg or less per day during pregnancy.
- Keep your prenatal appointments.
- Follow your healthcare professional's guidance regarding fetal movement and third-trimester monitoring.
- Discuss your birth preferences and plans with your healthcare professional if you have not already done so.
Nutrition This Week
Your baby’s brain, lungs, nervous system, bones, and growing body continue requiring a variety of nutrients.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Iron Rich Foods
Calcium Sources
Protein Rich Foods
Folate Rich Foods
Healthy Fats
Fruits & Vegetables
Whole Grains
Stay Hydrated
Nutrition Tip
Continue prioritizing nutrient-dense foods as your baby approaches the final weeks of development. Regular meals containing protein, vegetables or fruit, whole grains, and healthy fats can help support your nutritional needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is my baby at Week 34?
Your baby is approximately the size of a cantaloupe. Exact measurements vary depending on the timing of development.
What is developing during Week 34?
Your baby’s brain and nervous system continue maturing, the lungs continue developing, and the body continues gaining fat and weight.
Are my baby's lungs mature at Week 34?
The lungs are becoming increasingly mature, but they are still developing. Additional weeks in the womb allow further lung and organ development.
Can my baby recognize my voice?
Your baby’s hearing is well developed, and familiar voices and sounds can be detected. Your baby may respond with changes in movement.
Why does my baby seem to move differently?
As your baby grows and space becomes more limited, movements may feel different. You may notice more rolls, stretches, kicks, and pressure rather than large changes in position.
Is my baby likely to be head-down?
Many babies are head-down by this stage, but some may still change position. Your healthcare professional can assess your baby’s position during prenatal visits.
What happens if my baby is born at Week 34?
A baby born at 34 weeks is considered preterm and may require specialized newborn care. The amount of support needed varies depending on the baby’s health and development.
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