What’s happening to my baby?
By week 34 your baby is getting serious about being prepared for the outside world. They are swallowing lots of amniotic fluid and can urinate up to one litre per day. As room gets tight in the womb, their motion is constrained but you might be able to see your baby’s movements through the skin of your belly.
While your baby’s immune and nervous systems are more or less mature, their lungs still require a bit more development. They are continuing to produce surfactant to support themselves independently in the outside world.
What’s happening to me?
You will probably experience more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions, which feel like a tightening around your pelvis or belly. You might even experience symptoms like blurred vision and dizziness, so ensure you don’t put yourself in a situation where you might be in danger if you faint or fall over.
Because there’s a strong chance of labour occurring in any of these last few weeks, it will help if you have a prepared birth and hospital plan and that you’re staying in regular contact with your midwife or specialist.