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🌳Third Trimester•Weeks 28-40
Week 35 of Pregnancy
Your baby is the size of honeydew melon
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Length
18.2 inches
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Weight
5.3 pounds
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Size Comparison
Honeydew melon
👶 Baby Development
- •Baby is running out of room and movements may feel different - more rolling than kicking
- •Kidneys are fully developed and producing urine
- •Liver can process waste products independently
- •Lungs are almost fully mature with sufficient surfactant production
- •Reflexes are fully coordinated including sucking, swallowing, and grasping
- •Most vernix has been shed and absorbed
- •Baby has developed strong sleep-wake patterns
💭 Common Symptoms
- •Very frequent urination as baby presses on bladder constantly
- •Intense pelvic pressure and possible lightning (baby dropping)
- •Possible significant swelling in feet, ankles, hands, and face
- •Severe shortness of breath as uterus reaches maximum height
- •Trouble sleeping and extreme discomfort
- •Possible anxiety about impending labor
- •Strong nesting urges to prepare for baby
🥗 Nutrition Tips
- •Continue balanced, nutritious eating despite reduced appetite
- •Eat easily digestible foods that are gentle on your compressed stomach
- •Stay hydrated with water, even though it means more bathroom trips
- •Include vitamin C-rich foods (85mg daily) for tissue healing
- •Eat small portions more frequently
- •Focus on protein and iron-rich foods
- •Include foods rich in potassium to balance sodium
✅ To-Do This Week
- •Know the signs of preterm labor including regular contractions, pelvic pressure, and fluid leakage
- •Have your hospital bag completely packed and by the door
- •Arrange postpartum help from family, friends, or professional services
- •Practice relaxation and breathing techniques daily
- •Finalize your birth team and support people
- •Charge your phone and camera batteries
- •Do a trial run to the hospital to time the route
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Did You Know?
If born now, your baby has over 99% chance of survival with minimal to no medical intervention needed! Most babies born at 35 weeks do very well.