Week 34 of Pregnancy

Not long to go now. I expect you are counting the days down. You might be feeling a bit fed up being pregnancy by now, carrying all that extra weight is exhausting. If your baby was born now, it has a 95 percent chance of full and normal survival with medical intervention.

Changes in your body at Week 34 of Pregnancy

Your body is getting ready for the delivery and you may notice you are having more contractions. Getting as much rest as possible now is very important. Put your feet up!

Changes you may experience during the 34th week of pregnancy include:

• The hormones from the placenta are starting to activate the milk in your breasts
• Braxton hicks
• Exhaustion
• Fatigue
• Aches and pains
• Weight gain
• Anxiety regarding birth - this is quite normal, don’t worry, speak to your health care provider

Baby's Development at Week 34 of Pregnancy - Baby size: 45cm

Your baby is now acting just like a new born. Eyes open when awake and close when sleeping and your baby can also blink. Antibodies from your blood are being transferred to your baby and will continue until birth. These immunities will protect against disease and the breast milk will take over that job when born.

Some typical developments which occur during the 34th week of pregnancy are:

• Baby may have turned into the head down position ready for birth
• Immune system is developing
• Vernix coating on baby's skin is becoming thicker
• Baby can grasp firmly and will need to be trimmed shortly after birth
• Baby's movements are bigger and slower within the womb

You should ensure you have plenty of calcium in your diet, if not take a supplement. Your baby is taking your calcium to harden bones. If you are not taking enough calcium it may well affect your own bones.