👶Your baby this week
Your baby is about as long as a newborn bodysuit (~46 cm) and weighs around 5¼ lb.
Movements may feel more like **rolls, wiggles and stretches** than sharp kicks as space gets tight.
Baby is **building body fat**, especially around the shoulders, and rapidly **developing brain connections**.
Most babies are now **head-down** preparing for birth, though some will turn in the coming weeks.
The **skull plates remain soft and flexible** to help baby pass through the birth canal.
Fingernails and toenails have grown to the tips and may be ready for the first little trim after birth.
🌸Your body this week
You may notice **yellow stains in your bra**, this is **colostrum**, an early milk rich in antibodies.
Your **milk usually ‘comes in’** around 3–5 days after birth; consider being measured for a comfortable **feeding bra** and have **breast pads** ready.
Many parents choose to **start maternity leave** around now, while others prefer to work until birth — do what feels right for you.
You might experience more frequent **Braxton Hicks contractions** as your body rehearses for labour.
Frequent urination and occasional **leakage when coughing or laughing** can increase as baby’s head presses on your bladder, **Kegels** can help.
💛Symptoms you might notice
Every pregnancy is different. These are common around week 35 — speak to your midwife if anything worries you.
Braxton Hicks contractions
Irregular tightenings that come and go are normal. Hydrate, rest, and change position. If they become painful or regular, call your maternity unit.
Frequent urination & incontinence
Lean forward to fully empty your bladder, wear a liner if helpful, and practise **pelvic floor exercises**. Don’t cut down on fluids.
Headaches
Can be triggered by heat or stuffy rooms. Get fresh air and ask your midwife which pain relief is safe. Severe or persistent headaches warrant review (rule out pre-eclampsia).
Pregnancy brain
Forgetfulness is common. Use lists, reminders, and keep routines simple. It typically improves a few months after birth.
Clumsiness
Your centre of gravity has shifted. Move slowly, avoid climbing on chairs, and ask for help reaching high shelves.
Bleeding gums
Hormones can inflame gums. Brush gently, floss daily, and add vitamin C–rich foods (berries, tomatoes, citrus).
Haemorrhoids (piles)
Varicose veins in the rectum can itch or ache. Use warm water to cleanse, consider witch hazel pads, and keep stools soft with fibre and fluids.
Skin rashes (PUPPP)
An itchy, bumpy rash on the abdomen can occur late in pregnancy. It’s benign; soothe with aloe vera gel and lukewarm baths. Speak to your midwife if severe.
Varicose veins
Support tights/stockings, elevating legs, and gentle activity improve circulation. They typically ease after birth.
✨Tips for week 35
Group B strep (GBS)
GBS is common and usually harmless to adults but can affect newborns. Discuss your local screening/management approach with your midwife and note it in your birth plan.
Plan your pain relief
Review options for labour and note preferences in your birth plan: **Self-help** (breathing, movement, water), **Gas & air**, **Pethidine/diamorphine**, **Epidural**, **Water birth**, **TENS**, and **complementary therapies** (e.g., acupuncture/aromatherapy where supported).
Kick counts & movements
Keep tracking Your usual pattern. If movements slow or change, **contact your midwife or maternity unit immediately**.
Breastfeeding prep
Read up on **breastfeeding technique and positioning**, consider a **feeding bra** and **nursing pads**, and add questions to discuss at your next appointment.
Doula or birth partner
A **doula** can offer continuous emotional and practical support during labour. Ask for recommendations and discuss expectations with your chosen birth partner.
Maternity leave timing
You can usually start leave **up to 11 weeks** before your due date. If you change your start date, give your employer **at least 28 days’ notice** (or explain if not possible).
Pelvic floor & posture
Daily Kegels and good posture can reduce leakage and backache. Side-sleeping with a pillow between your knees can improve comfort.
Healthy habits
Eat a balanced diet, keep hydrated, and continue gentle exercise (e.g., walking, prenatal yoga). Limit caffeine and avoid alcohol and smoking.
When to seek urgent help
Call your maternity unit if you have vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, severe headache, vision changes, sudden swelling, chest pain, or **reduced fetal movements**.