Source: bing.comHooray! You are 34 weeks pregnant and your baby is growing and developing at a remarkable rate. Your little one is now the size of a cantaloupe, measuring about 17.7 inches from head to heel and weighing around 4.7 pounds. As your due date approaches, your little one is preparing for life outside the womb by practicing breathing, sucking, and swallowing.
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Brain Development
At this stage, your baby’s brain is developing at a rapid pace. The cerebral cortex, which is responsible for controlling movement, sensation, perception, and thought, is now becoming more complex. Your baby’s brain is also developing billions of neurons that will help them learn, think, and communicate in the future.
Physical Development
Your baby’s lungs are now almost fully developed, and they are practicing breathing movements by inhaling and exhaling the amniotic fluid. Their skin is becoming less wrinkled and is now taking on a smoother appearance. They are also gaining more body fat, which will help regulate their body temperature after birth.
Sensory Development
At 34 weeks, your baby’s five senses are developing rapidly. They are now able to open and close their eyes and react to light. They can also hear sounds from inside and outside the womb, and their sense of taste is becoming more refined.
Movement
You may notice that your baby’s movements are becoming more restricted as they grow bigger and take up more space in the womb. However, they are still active and are now able to turn their head from side to side and move their limbs independently.
Preparing for Birth
As your due date approaches, your body is preparing for labor and delivery. You may experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are mild contractions that help prepare the uterus for labor. Your cervix is also starting to soften and thin out in preparation for the delivery process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to have sex at 34 weeks pregnant?
A: Yes, it is generally safe to have sex at 34 weeks pregnant unless your doctor advises otherwise. However, you may need to avoid certain positions that put pressure on your abdomen.
Q: How much weight should I have gained by 34 weeks pregnant?
A: The amount of weight you should have gained by 34 weeks pregnant depends on your pre-pregnancy weight. On average, women who were a healthy weight before pregnancy should have gained around 25-35 pounds.
Q: What should I pack in my hospital bag at 34 weeks pregnant?
A: You should pack comfortable clothing, toiletries, nursing bras, and a going-home outfit for you and your baby. You may also want to bring a camera or video camera to capture those special first moments.
Q: When should I call my doctor if I experience contractions at 34 weeks pregnant?
A: If you experience regular contractions that last for more than an hour or if you have any vaginal bleeding, you should call your doctor immediately. These symptoms may be a sign of preterm labor.
Q: How can I relieve the discomfort of Braxton Hicks contractions at 34 weeks pregnant?
A: You can relieve the discomfort of Braxton Hicks contractions by changing positions, drinking water, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualization.
In conclusion, at 34 weeks pregnant, your little one is fast approaching their grand entrance into the world. Keep taking good care of yourself and your growing baby, and enjoy this exciting time in your life!