Source: bing.comTable of Contents
Introduction
Wow, you’ve made it to 34 weeks! Congratulations on your pregnancy journey. You’re probably feeling a mix of excitement, anticipation and anxiety as your due date gets closer. Now, your baby is around 17.7 inches long and weighs around 4.7 pounds. You’re just a few weeks away from meeting your baby, so let’s see what’s happening in your womb during this 34th week of pregnancy!
Baby’s Development
At 34 weeks, your baby’s lungs and central nervous system are still developing, however, they’re almost fully functional. Your baby’s bones are hardening, and they’re quickly gaining weight – this is called “fat layering.” Their kicks and movements are getting stronger as their muscles continue to develop. Your baby is now able to differentiate between light and dark, so you may notice your baby reacting to bright lights.
Mother’s Development
As your baby is growing rapidly, you may feel a bit more tired and uncomfortable. You may experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are like practice contractions, as your body prepares for labor. Your uterus now sits around 5.5 inches above your belly button. You may also feel more pressure in your pelvic area as your baby is moving down to get ready for delivery.
What to Expect
At 34 weeks, you may have a prenatal checkup to monitor your health and your baby’s development. Your healthcare provider may also perform a Group B strep test to check for a type of bacteria that can be harmful to your baby during delivery. Make sure to ask any questions you have and voice any concerns you may be having.
Conclusion
At 34 weeks, you’re in the home stretch of your pregnancy! Keep taking good care of yourself and your growing baby. Make sure to rest when you need to, eat healthy, and stay hydrated. Soon enough, you’ll be holding your bundle of joy in your arms!
FAQs
Q. Can my baby survive if I go into labor at 34 weeks?
A. Yes, with proper medical care, babies born at 34 weeks have a very high survival rate. However, they may need to spend some time in the NICU to receive extra care.
Q. Is it normal to feel Braxton Hicks contractions at 34 weeks?
A. Yes, Braxton Hicks contractions are a normal part of pregnancy, and you may start to feel them more frequently as your due date gets closer.
Q. Will my healthcare provider perform an ultrasound at 34 weeks?
A. It depends on your healthcare provider and your individual pregnancy. Some providers may perform an ultrasound at 34 weeks to check on the baby’s growth and position.
Q. Can I still exercise at 34 weeks pregnant?
A. Yes, you can still exercise during pregnancy, but make sure to talk to your healthcare provider first and listen to your body. Consider low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga.
Q. How can I relieve pelvic pressure at 34 weeks pregnant?
A. Try taking frequent breaks to rest and avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time. Consider wearing a maternity support belt to help lift your belly and distribute the weight. Pelvic floor exercises may also help relieve some pressure.