Congratulations, mama! You’re getting closer and closer to the finish line! At 34 weeks, your baby is the size of a butternut squash, weighing about 4.7 pounds and measuring about 17.7 inches long. Your little one is working hard to prepare for life on the outside, and there are some exciting milestones to look out for during this stage.
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Lung Development
At 34 weeks, your baby’s lungs are almost fully developed. The lungs are one of the last organs to mature, but they’re working hard to produce surfactant, a substance that helps the air sacs in the lungs stay open. This means that if your baby were born prematurely, they would have a better chance of breathing on their own.
Source: bing.comFetal Movement
You’ve probably been feeling your baby’s movements for a while now, but at 34 weeks, you may start to feel some new sensations. As your baby gets bigger, their movements may feel more like rolling or stretching than kicking. You may also feel some pressure on your bladder or ribs as your little one moves around.
Brain Development
Your baby’s brain is continuing to develop at a rapid pace during these last few weeks of pregnancy. The cerebral cortex, the part of the brain responsible for consciousness, is developing rapidly, and your baby’s brain is now capable of processing information and responding to stimuli.
Weight Gain
Your baby is still putting on weight at a rapid pace during these last few weeks of pregnancy. In fact, they will likely gain about a half pound per week from now until delivery. This weight gain is important for helping your baby regulate their body temperature and for providing energy stores that they will need after birth.
Immune System Development
During these last few weeks of pregnancy, your baby’s immune system is also developing. They are receiving antibodies from you that will help protect them from infections and illnesses during their first few months of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight should I have gained by 34 weeks?
Every pregnancy is different, but most women will have gained between 25 and 35 pounds by 34 weeks. If you are concerned about your weight gain, talk to your healthcare provider.
When should I start counting fetal movements?
You can start counting fetal movements at around 28 weeks. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you do so to monitor your baby’s health. Aim to feel at least 10 movements in two hours.
Is it normal to feel Braxton Hicks contractions at 34 weeks?
Yes, it is normal to experience Braxton Hicks contractions at 34 weeks. These are often called “practice contractions” and are a way for your body to prepare for labor. If you are concerned about your contractions, talk to your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I go into labor at 34 weeks?
If you go into labor at 34 weeks, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Your healthcare provider will be able to check on your baby’s health and determine the best course of action.
How can I prepare for my baby’s arrival at 34 weeks?
Some things you can do to prepare for your baby’s arrival at 34 weeks include packing your hospital bag, arranging for someone to care for pets or other children, and finalizing any last-minute details like infant car seats and diapering supplies.
In these last few weeks of pregnancy, it’s important to take care of yourself and your growing baby. Make sure to stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and listen to your body. Before you know it, you’ll be holding your little one in your arms!