35 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect This Week
Thirty-five weeks pregnant and most of your baby's development is complete. The main focus now is weight gain and final lung maturation. You're in the final month of pregnancy.
Baby at Week 35: Size of a honeydew melon
Baby's Development at 35 Weeks
The kidneys are fully developed and the liver can process some waste products. Baby is gaining about 250g per week. The lungs are nearly mature — surfactant production is at a high level. Most lanugo has shed. Baby is becoming increasingly round and chubby. The skull bones, while still soft, have moved closer together. Survival outside the womb at 35 weeks, without intensive support, is approximately 99%.
Your Body at 35 Weeks Pregnant
Many people notice significant slowing down at week 35 — the body is wise to conserve energy. Braxton Hicks are strong and frequent. Heartburn is at its peak. Getting up from furniture and rolling over in bed is a significant effort. Some people experience "lightning crotch" — sharp, shooting pains in the vagina or pelvis caused by the baby pressing on pelvic nerves.
Tips for Week 35
- Rest as much as you possibly can — your body is doing extraordinary work.
- Confirm your maternity leave start date and finish outstanding tasks at work.
- Do a final check of your hospital bag.
- Line up postpartum support: who will help with the baby, cooking, and household tasks in the first weeks?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is "lightning crotch" in pregnancy?
"Lightning crotch" describes sudden, sharp, shooting pains in the vagina or vulva that feel like electric shocks. They're very common in the third trimester and are caused by the baby's head pressing on pelvic nerves as they engage lower. They're harmless (if startling) and usually last only seconds. They're a sign of normal third-trimester baby positioning.
How do I know if my waters have broken?
Waters breaking (rupture of membranes) can be a dramatic gush or a slow trickle. The fluid is usually colourless or pale yellow and odourless (unlike urine). Use a pad (not a tampon) and call your maternity unit — they'll usually ask you to come in for assessment. Note the colour, odour, and time. Greenish or brownish fluid may indicate meconium and requires prompt attention.
Final prep checklist
Hello, baby's gear checklist makes it easy to see exactly what's done and what's still to do — great for these final weeks.
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