Baby week 35 - Symptoms, Braxton Hicks and checklist now

In week 35 of your pregnancy, you are approaching the finish line, and it is completely normal if both joy and nervousness fill you. Many experience that everyday life becomes more physically demanding, while there are also many practical things you want to get in order. Here you get a clear, action-oriented guide to what is typically relevant right now.

In week 35, the baby is far along in its development, but changes can still occur before birth. The most important thing for you as parents is often not numbers and details, but knowing what is common and when to react.

• Baby's movements: Patterns may change when there is less space, but you should still experience daily movements. If there is a significant change or concern, contact the maternity ward/midwife.
• Space in the womb: You may feel more pressure against your ribs, pelvis, or bladder because the baby takes up more space.
• Position: Some babies turn into a head-down position during this period, but it varies. Follow the agreements and checks you have with your midwife.

Many in week 35 experience new or stronger discomforts, without it meaning that something is wrong. The goal is to find small adjustments that make the days easier.

• Prioritise breaks: Short rests can do more than long plans you don't get through.
• Change position often: Small changes in position can relieve your pelvis, lower back, and abdomen.
• Fluid and support: If you feel heavy in your body, it can help to rest with your legs up and talk to a midwife if you also experience sudden or pronounced swelling.

Always contact your midwife or maternity ward if you experience bleeding, persistent severe pain, sudden severe headache, visual disturbances, or if you are concerned about the baby's movements.

Braxton Hicks contractions can feel like a tightening in your stomach that comes and goes. They can be uncomfortable, but are often harmless.

• First, try rest, fluids, and changing position.
• If the contractions become regular, increase in strength, or if you experience water breaking or bleeding, you should contact the maternity ward for assessment.

If in doubt, it is always okay to call once too many times.

Week 35 is a good time to get the hospital bag ready at a realistic level. Not everything has to be perfect, but it can bring peace of mind to have the most important things gathered.

• Change of clothes that are easy to put on and take off
• Soft underwear and nursing-friendly tops
• Practical toiletries for the time immediately after birth
• Charger, snacks, and something warm for your shoulders

If you want to make preparation easier, you can also look at the collection Pregnancy for equipment for the last part of pregnancy.

Many already start thinking about breastfeeding in week 35. Whether you end up with full breastfeeding, partial breastfeeding, or bottle-feeding, it can be nice to know the first simple steps.

• Skin-to-skin immediately after birth can support calm and bonding, and many find that it helps the baby find the breast.
• A bra without underwire is an important detail during pregnancy and breastfeeding, because underwires can press and in some cases irritate breast tissue. If you need extra support, a gel solution can provide support without using metal.

Finally, if you are missing something practical for the last waiting period and the time immediately after, 1-3 things can be relevant to have ready: A support belt can relieve the abdomen and lower back in late pregnancy, e.g., the Adjustable Support Belt. For the nursing period, a soft night bra can be comfortable, e.g., the Sleeping Nursing Bra. And for the days after birth, a complete solution can save you many purchases, e.g., the New Mum Care Pack.