Welcome to your weekly pregnancy guide at Home Insemination Kit! We’re dedicated to providing you with essential insights about what to expect during this journey, including weekly symptoms, your baby’s growth, and your evolving body. Here’s what to look forward to at 36 weeks.
Your Body at 36 Weeks Pregnant
Feeling Exhausted
You’re in the final stretch of pregnancy, and the countdown to meeting your little one is on—just about a month to go! However, the downside is that fatigue is likely weighing you down. Whether it’s your first or fifth baby, juggling daily tasks with a growing belly can leave you feeling drained. It’s important to prioritize rest; take naps when you can, and don’t hesitate to indulge in some quality downtime, even if it means binge-watching your favorite series or diving into a good book.
Insomnia May Still Be An Issue
Despite feeling worn out, you might find it hard to get a good night’s sleep. This can stem from discomfort in finding a suitable sleeping position, frequent trips to the bathroom, or room temperature issues. About 78% of expecting mothers report insomnia. While there’s no quick fix, establishing a calming bedtime routine can help. Consider meditating, having a chat with your partner, or enjoying an early dinner to reduce nighttime bathroom trips. Also, limit fluid intake later in the day and avoid screens an hour before bedtime.
Weight Gains Have Plateaued
At this stage, your baby is gaining approximately an ounce daily, while your weight is likely stabilizing until your due date. So if you notice a halt in your weight gain, don’t fret—it doesn’t imply any concerns about your baby’s development.
Your Baby at 36 Weeks Pregnant
At this point, your little one is roughly the size of a rack of ribs and weighs around six pounds. As you finalize preparations for their arrival, including setting up the nursery and purchasing adorable outfits, your baby is also gearing up for their big debut.
Typically, by week 36, your baby will settle into a head-down position, moving lower into your abdomen. If they haven’t flipped yet, don’t worry; there’s still time for them to position themselves properly. If they remain in a breech position after another week, consult your doctor for advice on the best course of action for a healthy delivery.
With your baby growing larger, their mobility is limited. While you’ll still feel them moving, expect more gentle squirming rather than those vigorous kicks and jabs you felt earlier on.
Your Symptoms and Health at Week 36 Pregnant
Keep an Eye on Your Mood
Physical symptoms aren’t the only things to monitor at this stage—emotional well-being is equally important. If you experience signs of depression or heightened anxiety, don’t brush them aside. These could indicate a risk for postpartum depression. Reach out to your healthcare provider promptly to discuss a proactive plan.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
As you venture into week 36, brace yourself for potential false alarms signaling labor. These are known as Braxton Hicks contractions or “practice contractions,” common in the third trimester. They can be triggered by various factors like a full bladder, physical touch, or dehydration. Recognizing the signs can help you distinguish them from actual labor; Braxton Hicks contractions tend to be infrequent, irregular, and uncomfortable rather than painful. To ease these contractions, change positions, take a warm bath, or sip on water or herbal tea.
Indigestion Is on the Rise
Heartburn and indigestion may become more pronounced at this stage due to your stomach being pushed upward as the baby settles lower. This can lead to bloating, gas, and even constipation. To manage these symptoms, aim for smaller, more frequent meals and chew slowly to avoid swallowing excess air, which can upset your digestive system.
Vaginal Discharge Changes
You may notice an increase in vaginal discharge, which can appear thicker and sometimes tinged with blood. This mucus acts as a protective barrier during pregnancy, blocking bacteria from entering the uterus. Towards the end of your pregnancy, this mucus may move into the vagina, leading to discharge that can be pink, brown, or red. This is especially common after a cervical exam or sexual activity. According to Mayo Clinic, it’s usually not a cause for concern unless the bleeding resembles a normal menstrual period—if that occurs, contact your doctor immediately.
Double Trouble for Twin Moms
If you’re expecting twins, week 36 might be your final week of pregnancy or the week you deliver. Twins typically arrive two to four weeks earlier than singleton pregnancies due to various factors, including the size of your bump and the potential for triggering contractions. By now, resting and taking it easy is essential.
As you approach delivery, your cervix will begin to dilate and efface in preparation. When your water breaks, it may feel like a trickle or a gush. It’s important to differentiate this from a urine leak; the amniotic fluid will be odorless. Once you confirm it’s your water breaking, note the time and start timing your contractions.
Initially, contractions will last 30-60 seconds with breaks of 5-20 minutes. As labor progresses, expect them to become more intense, lasting 45-60 seconds, with breaks narrowing down to 3-5 minutes. Once you reach this stage, it’s time to head to the hospital. Trust that your medical team will support you every step of the way—you’re almost there!
For more insights on your pregnancy journey, check out this post for an at-home insemination kit or learn what to expect during a semen analysis from Andrology Fertility Questions.
Summary
At 36 weeks pregnant, expect to feel fatigued yet encounter challenges with sleep due to physical discomfort and anxiety. Your baby, now about the size of a rack of ribs, is preparing for birth, and you may experience Braxton Hicks contractions, increased discharge, and intensified digestive issues. Remember to monitor your emotional well-being and consult your doctor if you have concerns.