• Lower back pain: As your baby grows and your centre of gravity shifts, you may feel increased pressure on your lower back, leading to discomfort or pain.
• Frequent urination: With your baby settling lower into your pelvis, you may find yourself needing to visit the bathroom more often.
• Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions help prepare your uterus for labour and can become more noticeable during this week.
• Pressure in the pelvic area and bladder: Your baby's position can put extra pressure on your pelvic region and bladder, causing a sensation of fullness or discomfort.
• Fatigue and mood swings: As your body works hard to support your growing baby, you may feel more tired than usual. Hormonal changes can also contribute to mood swings or emotional sensitivity.

Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and you may experience different symptoms than other expectant mothers. If you have any concerns or unusual symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor for guidance.
 

Baby’s Growth in the Womb

• Organ Development: Your baby's lungs are now fully formed and ready for their first breath after birth. The digestive system is also fully developed, enabling your baby to feed if born at this stage. Additionally, your baby's brain is developing rapidly, and they are practising important skills like blinking and developing sleep patterns.
• Physical Features: By week 36, your baby's fingernails have reached the ends of their fingers, and their skin is becoming pink and less wrinkled. Their legs are becoming chubby, and the hair on their head is becoming more noticeable. Your baby is looking more and more like the little one you'll soon hold in your arms.
• Weight of the Foetus: At this point, your baby typically weighs around 2.7 kg, although there can be some variation. While they have likely finished growing in length, they will continue to gain weight at a rate of approximately 220 grams per week until delivery.
• Movement of the Baby: You will still feel your baby's movements, although they may be less vigorous due to the limited space in the womb. As your baby drops lower into the pelvis, assuming a head-down position in preparation for birth, you may experience a feeling of "lightening" as the pressure on your diaphragm and lungs decreases.

Physiological Changes During Week 36 of Pregnancy

• Breast Changes: Your breasts may continue to grow and feel heavy as they prepare for breastfeeding. You may notice colostrum, a yellowish liquid, leaking from your nipples. This is perfectly normal and is your body's way of providing your baby with their first form of nutrition after birth.
• Hair, Skin, and Nails: Due to hormonal changes, you may notice that your hair appears thicker and fuller. However, some women experience hair loss during pregnancy, which is also normal. Your skin may feel stretched and itchy as your belly continues to grow, so keep it moisturised to alleviate discomfort.
• Respiratory and Cardiovascular System: As your baby grows and takes up more space in your abdomen, you may find it harder to take deep breaths. You may also experience shortness of breath or a faster heart rate, which is your body's way of accommodating the increased blood volume during pregnancy.
• Vaginal Discharge: You may notice an increase in vaginal discharge, which can be clear, white, or slightly pink. This is normal and helps prevent infections. However, if you experience a sudden gush of fluid or suspect that your water has broken, contact your doctor immediately.
• Uterus Size and Position: At 36 weeks, your uterus has grown significantly and fills most of your abdomen. It may measure about 6 inches above your belly button. As your baby drops into the pelvis, you may feel a bit of relief from the pressure on your diaphragm, but you may experience more pelvic pressure and discomfort.
• Placenta Position: The placenta continues to provide your baby with nutrients and oxygen. It will pass through the birth canal after your baby is born, in what is known as the third stage of labour. Your doctor will monitor the placenta's position and health throughout your pregnancy.

• Group B Streptococcus (GBS) Screening

This test involves taking a swab of your vagina and rectum to check for the presence of GBS bacteria. If you test positive, you'll receive antibiotics during labour to prevent passing the bacteria to your baby.

• Ultrasound

If there are any concerns about your baby's growth or position, your doctor may order an ultrasound to assess their well-being.

• Non-Stress Test (NST)

This test monitors your baby's heart rate in response to their movements. It helps ensure that your baby is getting enough oxygen and is not in distress.

• Cervical Checks

As you near your due date, your healthcare provider may perform cervical checks to determine if your cervix is preparing for labour. They will assess the dilation (opening) and effacement (thinning) of your cervix.

• Discussion on external cephalic version (ECV)

If your baby is in a breech position (bottom-down instead of head-down), your healthcare provider may discuss the option of an external cephalic version (ECV). This procedure involves gently manipulating your baby's position from the outside to encourage them to turn head-down for delivery.