Congratulations, mama! You’ve made it to 34 weeks, and your little one is growing stronger and smarter every day. At this point in your pregnancy, your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe and weighs almost five pounds. They’re getting ready for the big day by practicing breathing and perfecting their sucking and swallowing reflexes. Here’s what else you can expect during 34 weeks of baby development.
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Physical Development
Your baby’s body is almost fully formed, and they’re just putting on the finishing touches. They’re gaining weight rapidly, which means they’re getting ready to meet the world outside the womb. By 34 weeks, your baby’s head circumference is about 12.5 inches, and their body is about 17.2 inches long. Their skin is becoming less translucent and more opaque as they develop more subcutaneous fat. Their nails have also grown long enough to require a trim at birth.
Source: bing.comBrain Development
Your baby’s brain is developing at an astonishing rate during 34 weeks of baby development. They’re forming new neural connections every minute and are preparing for life outside the womb. By now, your baby can differentiate between light and dark and may even respond to familiar voices. You’ll notice that they’re more active during the day and quieter at night, which is a sign that their circadian rhythm is developing.
Sensory Development
Your baby’s senses are also developing rapidly during 34 weeks of baby development. They’re able to taste, smell, hear, and see, albeit not as well as they will after birth. Your baby may react to different tastes by swallowing more or less amniotic fluid, and they’ll respond to loud noises with a startle reflex. Their vision is still blurry, but they can detect light and shadow and may even turn towards a bright light source.
Movement
By now, your baby is a pro at kicking, punching, and squirming. You’ll feel them move more and more as they run out of space in your uterus. Your baby may also turn head down in preparation for delivery, although some babies wait until the last minute to make the switch. You may notice that your baby moves more during certain times of day, such as after a meal or when you’re lying down.
What You Can Do to Support Your Baby’s Development
During 34 weeks of baby development, your baby is relying on you to provide the nutrients and care they need to thrive. Here are some tips to support your baby’s development:
- Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, fruits, and vegetables.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Get plenty of rest and avoid overexerting yourself.
- Attend your prenatal appointments and follow your doctor’s recommendations.
- Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or yoga, to reduce stress.
Frequently Asked Questions About 34 Weeks Baby Development
Is it normal to feel Braxton Hicks contractions at 34 weeks pregnant?
Yes, Braxton Hicks contractions are common during the third trimester of pregnancy. These contractions are often described as practice contractions and are usually painless. However, if you experience frequent or painful contractions, contact your doctor immediately.
How much weight should I have gained by 34 weeks pregnant?
Every pregnancy is different, and weight gain can vary depending on your pre-pregnancy weight, age, and other factors. However, on average, most women gain between 25 and 35 pounds during pregnancy. By 34 weeks, you may have gained between 22 and 28 pounds. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about your weight gain.
When should I go to the hospital if I think I’m in labor?
It’s important to contact your doctor if you think you’re in labor, especially if you’re less than 37 weeks pregnant. They can advise you on whether to come to the hospital or wait at home. However, in general, you should go to the hospital if you experience regular contractions that are getting stronger and closer together, your water breaks, or you have vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge.
What can I do to relieve pregnancy-related back pain?
Back pain is common during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. To relieve pregnancy-related back pain, try practicing good posture, using a pregnancy pillow, wearing supportive shoes, and doing gentle exercises, such as swimming or prenatal yoga. You can also try applying heat or cold to the affected area or getting a prenatal massage.
What should I pack in my hospital bag for delivery?
It’s never too early to start packing your hospital bag. Some essentials to include are a comfortable outfit to wear during labor, toiletries, nursing bras and pads, a going-home outfit for you and your baby, and any necessary paperwork, such as your birth plan and insurance information. You may also want to pack some entertainment, such as books or music, to keep you occupied during labor.