Pregnancy Week 35
Your baby is getting bigger and stronger as the final weeks of pregnancy approach. The brain and nervous system continue to mature, the lungs are developing further, and your baby is gaining more body fat. Your baby’s movements may feel stronger and more focused as space becomes more limited.
Your Baby This Week
Brain & Nervous System
Your baby’s brain continues developing rapidly during week 35. The nervous system is becoming increasingly mature and is helping coordinate movement, reflexes, and responses to sounds and sensations.
Brain development will continue throughout the remainder of pregnancy and after birth.
Lung Development
Your baby’s lungs continue maturing as the airways and tiny structures needed for breathing become more developed.
Surfactant production continues increasing, helping prepare the lungs for breathing after birth.
Rapid Weight Gain
Your baby continues gaining weight and accumulating more fat beneath the skin.
This additional fat gives your baby’s body a fuller appearance and provides an important energy reserve for after birth.
Preparing for Birth
Your baby is continuing to mature and prepare for life outside the womb.
Many babies begin settling into a head-down position during the later weeks of pregnancy, although some babies may still change position at this stage.
Growing & Preparing for Birth
Your baby is about the size of a honeydew melon. The brain and lungs continue maturing while your baby gains more fat and prepares for birth.
Your Body This Week
Your body is entering the final part of pregnancy and may feel increasingly different as your baby grows.
Increasing Pelvic Pressure
As your baby grows and may move lower into the pelvis, you may experience increased pressure in the pelvis or bladder.
Stronger Baby Movements
Your baby's movements can feel stronger and more focused. Although there is less room for large movements, you should continue to notice your baby's usual activity.
Heartburn & Indigestion
Heartburn and indigestion may continue as the growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach.
Fatigue & Sleep Changes
The physical demands of late pregnancy, frequent urination, and difficulty finding a comfortable position can make sleep more challenging.
Tips for week 35
- Continue taking your prenatal vitamin every day.
- Eat balanced meals containing 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 is bothering you.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating if it worsens heartburn.
- Rest whenever you feel tired.
- Continue pregnancy-safe physical activity if approved by your healthcare professional.
- 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.
- Make sure you know when and how to contact your maternity care team if labor symptoms begin.
- Continue preparing for your baby's arrival and review your birth plan if you have one.
Nutrition This Week
Your baby’s brain, lungs, bones, muscles, and rapidly growing body continue requiring a wide range 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 focusing on nutrient-dense foods rather than simply eating larger portions. Regular meals with protein, vegetables or fruit, whole grains, and healthy fats can provide the nutrients needed during late pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is my baby at Week 35?
Your baby is approximately the size of a honeydew melon. Exact measurements vary depending on the timing of development.
What is developing during Week 35?
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 35?
The lungs are considerably more developed than earlier in pregnancy, but they continue maturing during the remaining weeks.
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 check your baby’s position during prenatal visits.
Why do I feel more pressure in my pelvis?
As your baby grows and may move lower into the pelvis, you may experience increased pressure on your pelvis and bladder.
Should my baby's movements decrease because there is less space?
Your baby’s movements may feel different as space becomes more limited, but your baby should continue moving. If you notice a significant or unusual reduction in your baby’s usual movements, contact your healthcare professional promptly.
What happens if my baby is born at Week 35?
A baby born at 35 weeks is considered preterm. Some babies may need additional monitoring or specialized newborn care, particularly for feeding, temperature regulation, or breathing.
Week by Week
Explore your pregnancy journey week by week.
Join Our Newsletter
Get weekly pregnancy tips, updates and exclusive content.
We respect your privacy
