How Big is Your Baby?
The baby at this stage is 17.2 to 18.7 inches. From here, it won't grow longer but will plump up. In the week 35 of your pregnancy, the baby weighs 4.2 to 5.8 pounds.
Baby's growth and development
The baby has full developed its hearing and can even respond the high-pitched noises. In case of baby boy, the testes descend fully.
Mother's Development
Changes You Experience
A healthy mother gains around 30 pounds by the 35th week of pregnancy. The uterus now rests approximately 6 inches above the belly button, pushing the rib cage. There may be continued problems in breathing due to the uterus pushing against the diaphragm.
However, this is not a major cause of concern as the baby will descend into the birth canal anytime if it has not by now. Due to the process of lightening (baby descending deeper into the pelvis), you may have urgent need for urination at frequent intervals. This is primarily because of the increased pressure on the urinary bladder.
Lower back pains and contractions also become frequent. Many women confuse them with labor pains and rush to the hospital in such situations. Mood swings also happen to be more frequent during this last month. This is due to an increased level of pregnancy hormones and anxiety about the baby.
Complications
Count your baby’s movements if you have not started already. Ideally, at least 10 kicks must be felt per hour, although it may slightly vary from baby to baby. However, if there is a sudden change in the rate of baby’s movement, contact your health care provider immediately.
At this stage, premature birth is a cause of concern. Premature babies have to be kept under constant care for some days to ensure their survival. There are several threats to the baby who is born before time, including disabilities like cerebral palsy. Lifestyle of the mother affects the pregnancy. Abstain from alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and avoid taking stress to minimize such risks.
Diet
During this time of pregnancy, the mother is allowed to eat extra keeping in mind the baby’s growth spurt. But try not to eat lots of cakes and fried foods that can end up making you bloated and constipated.
For vegans, it is extremely important that the content of iron and calcium is maintained in the diet. Include tofu, soya bean, peas, green leafy vegetables and numerous dairy products in your diet. Take supplements of the mentioned nutrients if the doctor has advised you to do so.
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