Week 36

Your due date is just four weeks away. Hasn’t time flown? Your once-poppy seed would probably be able to breathe on his own if he was born right now. (If not, he’d probably need some TLC, but he’d likely be okay.) Most of his systems are in working order at 36 weeks. Since baby really could decide to make his arrival any day now, try to put in a little prep work. For example, if you took a child birth class a few months ago, you might want to reread any materials you were given and practice some of the breathing techniques you learned with your partner. Go over your plan for getting to the hospital, and all the what-ifs (like, if you go into labor while you’re at work, will you go home first or straight there?). You might also want to remind your boss and colleagues of the status of all your work projects, so they know exactly where to take over if you’re suddenly out of the office. Week 36 is also a good time to enjoy a date with your partner. We’re guessing you won’t be up for dancing, but a nice dinner might be just what you two could use.

Your baby’s the size of a honeydew! 

She’s still in the 17.2- to 18.7-inch and 4.2- to 5.8-pound range and continues to beef up.

your baby at 36 weeks 

• She’s getting closer and closer to being able to breathe on her own.
• Her skin is getting smooth and soft and her gums are rigid.
• Her liver and kidneys are in working order.
• Circulation and immune systems are basically good to go, too.

pregnancy symptoms at 36 weeks

• Better ability to breathe. Baby might soon descend into your pelvis, giving your lungs some extra space.
• Pelvic discomfort — for the same reason!
• Difficulty sleeping. Find some ways to relax even if you aren’t getting much shut-eye.
• More heartburn and ankle-and-foot swelling.

your must-do’s

• Schedule your weekly prenatal visit to the OB.
• Schedule your nonstress test, if your doctor recommends it.

your nice-to-do’s

• Finalize your maternity-leave plan, if you can.
• Brush up on labor basics and breathing techniques.
• Have date night with your partner.

Source: pregnant.thebump.com