Terhesség 35. hete

At week 35, your baby is about 46-47 cm long and weighs around 2.1-2.2 kg. The most critical development this week happens within your baby's immune system; by storing antibodies from your blood, your baby gains the ability to protect themselves against germs in the outside world after birth. Physically, your baby’s characteristic chubby look is now well-established. As the layer of fat under the skin thickens, their skin becomes smoother and pinker. Additionally, the liver and kidneys are working at full capacity to process waste, showing that the baby is preparing for metabolic independence. Since space has become quite tight inside, your baby now makes strong pushing movements with their knees or elbows instead of doing somersaults. Brain development continues at an incredible pace this week, and the skull bones are still soft; this softness is vital for making the passage through the birth canal easier. Lung development is considered complete for most babies as of this week, meaning there is a very high chance the baby can breathe on their own in case of a premature birth. Your baby no longer just recognizes your voice; they are sending the first signals of their personality by reacting more distinctly to changes in light and rhythmic sounds from the outside world.

Your uterus has now risen to just below your rib cage and is putting significant pressure on your internal organs. One of the most noticeable changes is shortness of breath; because your lungs cannot fully expand, you might feel winded even after light physical activity. However, as the baby's head moves down into the pelvic cavity (toward the birth canal), you may experience a sensation known as lightening this week or next. When the baby drops, the pressure on your lungs decreases and you will start to breathe more easily, but this increases pressure on your bladder, causing more frequent trips to the bathroom. Edema and swelling in your body may peak during these weeks; you might notice more swelling in your hands, ankles, and face, especially in the mornings. Increased blood volume and fluid retention put pressure on your veins, which can lead to an increase in varicose veins or hemorrhoids. Since the hormone relaxin loosens your joints, pelvic and hip pain may even change the way you walk; this is commonly known as the pregnancy waddle. Your body is now fully focused on birth, and it is a time when you should rest frequently and avoid sudden movements to conserve your energy.

Your baby's bones continue to harden rapidly this week, making your calcium intake more important than ever. Incorporate calcium-rich foods such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, along with dark leafy greens, almonds, and sesame seeds. As your uterus exerts pressure on your stomach, eating 5-6 small meals throughout the day can help alleviate heartburn and reflux. Including probiotic-rich kefir or homemade yogurt in your diet is an effective way to prevent constipation and support gut health. Hydration is essential during this stage; increasing your water intake helps your kidneys flush out sodium and reduce swelling. Drinking at least 2.5-3 liters of water daily not only minimizes edema but also supports healthy amniotic fluid levels and reduces the risk of urinary tract infections. Maintaining stable blood sugar by avoiding sugary, processed foods helps manage weight gain for both you and your baby. A colorful plate filled with fresh fruits and vegetables provides the essential vitamins needed for your baby's developing senses and overall growth.

As your due date approaches, it is completely normal to feel very energetic one day and anxious the next. Thoughts about labor, pain management, and baby care are part of a natural process known as pregnancy anxiety. To protect your mental well-being, try to create small spaces of peace and focus on the first moment you hold your baby. Being informed reduces fear, so having clear conversations with your doctor about childbirth methods will help you feel more at ease. Communication with your partner is also vital; sharing your fears and need for postpartum support will help you feel secure. Tune out negative stories and practice gentle prenatal yoga or breathing exercises to soothe your nervous system. Remember that stress hormones can pass to your baby through the placenta, so prioritizing your own peace is a way of protecting your baby's health.

Since labor can start at any moment, week 35 is the time to have your hospital bag ready by the door. Make sure your bag includes nursing nightgowns, postpartum pads, and personal care items for you, as well as seasonal onesies, blankets, and diapers for the baby. Additionally, planning your route to the hospital, preparing a spare key, and finalizing your emergency contact list will provide you with great peace of mind. Most home preparations should be finished by now; this week you should only focus on final touches and strictly avoid any heavy lifting. The safety and hygiene of the nursery are also important topics this week; baby clothes should be washed with fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergents and ironed. If you have a car, installing the car seat now and practicing how to use it will make the journey home from the hospital much easier. It is a good idea to start thinking about safety measures for sharp corners, outlets, or furniture that could tip over. Also, preparing healthy meals for the freezer so you do not have to worry about cooking during the first few weeks after birth will be one of the smartest investments you make this week.

This week, you should focus on your pelvic area to help make labor easier and speed up your postpartum recovery. The following tips will help make this process more comfortable for you:

• Kegel Exercises: Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles increases control during birth and helps prevent issues like postpartum incontinence.
• Perineal Massage: After consulting your doctor, massaging the perineal area with natural oils starting from week 35 can increase tissue elasticity and reduce the risk of tearing during birth.
• Sleep on Left: Sleep on your left side to maximize blood circulation and increase oxygen flow to your baby; placing a pillow between your legs will help relieve hip pain.
• Elevate Your Feet: Rest frequently throughout the day by raising your feet above heart level; this will reduce swelling and help prevent varicose veins.
• Warm Showers: Taking a warm shower before bed relaxes your muscles, reduces discomfort caused by Braxton Hicks contractions, and improves sleep quality.