Week 33-36

Week 33

The baby: the baby now weighs approximately 4. 4 pounds and has grown to nearly 12 inches in CTR length. His total length is near 19. 4 inches. The last few weeks of the baby's life have been devoted to growth and this trend continues in the upcoming weeks. Within the next seven weeks the baby should gain close to half of his birth weight. As the baby grows room to move in the womb further shrinks and he begins to curl up and move less.

The mother: The top of the mother's uterus should now be approximately 5. 2 inches above her belly button. Maternal weight gain at this stage is typically between 22 and 28 pounds.

Week 34

The baby: the baby now weighs nearly 5 pounds. He has grown to 12. 8 inches in CTR length and 19. 8 inches in total length. Many babies begin moving into the birth position at this stage of pregnancy. Their head begins to move toward the opening of the cervix. With the exception of the lungs, the baby's organs are fully developed and his nails have reached the ends of his toes and fingers.

The mother: the mother's uterus should now be approximately 5. 2 inches above her belly button. At this point it is very common for pressure to increase and create the sensation that the baby is going to fall out. This is due to the migration of his head toward the birth canal. This shift in the baby's positioning is also often accompanied by a drop in the child and uterus, leaving the top of the uterus closer to the belly button. This reduces the pressure felt in the chest. Also, the mother may experience tingling sensations or pins-and-needles sensations in her pelvic region from the pressure of the baby. This is a common symptom and may not be relieved until labor. Many women may also notice by now that their navel has popped out due to abdominal expansion.

Week 35

The baby: the baby now measures 13. 2 inches CTR and 20. 25 inches in total. He weighs approximately 5. 5 pounds. The lungs have almost developed fully and the baby is still storing extra fat under his skin.

The mother: the mother's uterus is on average 6 inches above her belly button and she has likely gained between 24 and 29 pounds. In this late stage of pregnancy mood swings are common. Without reason, the mother may find herself brought to tears. The mother's size is now truly restricting her actions and sleep is likely difficult. Within the next two weeks the mother's physician will test for Group B streptococcus bacteria.

Week 36

The baby: the baby now weighs nearly 6 pounds. He has grown to 13. 5 inches in CTR length and 20. 7 inches in total length. His brain is nearly fully developed.

The mother: By this stage the mother's uterus is probably under her ribs. She may have gained somewhere between 25 and 30 pounds. From this stage on she may not gain any further weight. The mother's weekly doctor visits have likely begun and she is now experiencing many of the symptoms of pregnancy such as aches, constipation, heaviness, and heartburn.

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