36 Weeks Pregnant: The Final Countdown

You’ve made it to 36 weeks! Just one week away from your baby being considered full-term. It’s incredible to think that from this point forward, your little one could arrive at any time. Let’s take a look at what’s happening as you move into this exciting phase.

Baby’s Growth and Development

At 36 weeks, your baby is now weighing around 5.5 pounds and measuring approximately 47 centimeters. That’s about the size of a Romaine lettuce! Your little one is really getting ready to meet you, and if they haven’t already, they’ll start to engage soon.

What does “engage” mean? It’s when your baby’s head (or bottom if they’re breech) begins to move lower into your pelvis, making them ready for birth. This process is often called “lightening,” and you might notice that your bump looks like it has dropped. While this can make it easier for you to breathe and relieve heartburn, it comes with the downside of added pressure on your bladder, you’ll probably be running to the bathroom a lot more!

Though space is tighter now, you should still feel baby moving. If you ever notice a significant decrease in movement, be sure to contact your midwife, as it’s always better to be safe.

Losing the Mucus Plug: A Sign of Progress

Now that your baby is preparing for birth, you might experience one of the less glamorous but exciting signs, losing the mucus plug. This plug acts as a barrier, sealing the cervix throughout pregnancy and helping to protect your baby from the outside world.

Losing it can mean that your body is gearing up for labor, but it’s worth noting that labor could still be days or even weeks away. For some women, it’s a gradual process, while others might not notice it at all. The appearance can be a bit startling, think of it as a big blob of snot, but rest assured, it’s completely normal. If your mucus plug is tinged with blood, this is often a sign that labor is very near.

How You’re Feeling at 36 Weeks

Now that baby has dropped, you might be feeling some relief in terms of breathlessness and heartburn. However, as baby moves lower, it can make pelvic pressure and hip pain worse, and you may find yourself waddling more than ever. The end is in sight though, and soon you’ll have your little one in your arms!

This is also a time when birth anxiety can creep in. It’s normal to wonder about how labor will go, whether you’ll cope with the pain, and what will happen during the birth. Talking to your midwife, friends, or family about these concerns can be really helpful. Sharing your thoughts with other moms online or in person can also make you feel less alone in this experience.

Looking Forward

With only a few weeks left, it’s hard to believe how far you’ve come. This final stretch can feel both exciting and nerve-wracking, but it’s also a time to reflect on the incredible journey your body has taken. Soon enough, you’ll be holding your baby, and all of these little worries will be a distant memory.

Warmly,
Ecco