Trimester 3
34 weeks pregnant: Lungs almost ready
Here is what to expect this week for you and your baby.
Baby Size Cantaloupe (kharbooja) 45 cm A cantaloupe / kharbuja (~45 cm). Surfactant maturation continues.
Baby Development
- Vernix caseosa thickening to protect skin
- Lungs nearly mature — major milestone
- Central nervous system maturing
- Fat layers making baby plump and round
Common Symptoms
- Extreme fatigue — body preparing for labour
- Braxton Hicks can be painful now
- Bladder feels constantly full
- Difficulty eating full meals — stomach compressed
Tips & Advice
- Eat 5-6 small meals instead of 3 large ones
- Rest with feet up whenever possible
- Prepare a list of emergency contacts
Nutrition Guide
- Small nutrient-dense meals: dry fruit mix, peanut chikki
- Iron supplement: continue as prescribed
- Prebiotics: banana, onion, garlic for gut health
Medical Checklist
When to see your doctor at week 34
Some symptoms need attention right away. Contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital if you notice any of these:
- Heavy bleeding (soaking a pad within an hour)
- Severe or persistent abdominal or pelvic pain
- Fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
- Sudden severe headache, blurred vision or upper-abdominal pain (possible preeclampsia)
- Decreased fetal movement after week 24 (fewer than 10 movements in 2 hours)
- Watery fluid leak from the vagina before 37 weeks (possible PPROM)
- Regular contractions before 37 weeks (possible preterm labour)
Frequently asked questions
What is GBS?
A bacterium some carry vaginally without symptoms; if positive at 35–37 weeks, antibiotics during labour protect baby.
Why so emotional?
Sleep + hormones + anticipation. Persistent low mood should be raised with your doctor.
Still safe to have sex?
In low-risk pregnancy without bleeding or rupture — yes.
For partners
Plan one slow date night — just the two of you, before the baby arrives.
Prepare for your OB visit
- When is my GBS swab?
- “Go to hospital” thresholds clearly?
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