At thirty-six weeks pregnant, you are into your last few weeks of pregnancy! For many of you, this is welcome news and means the uncomfortableness and tiredness will soon be behind you. You might see your baby again in an ultrasound or listen to their heartbeat. Your baby’s head might move into position, ready for birth.
But what else happens this week?
That is what we are here to tell you. Keep reading for our complete, in-depth guide to your thirty-sixth week of pregnancy. We cover your common symptoms, what an ultrasound shows, if your pregnancy is viable, and everything in between.
What’s Coming Up In The Article?
- What Does It Mean To Be 36 Weeks Pregnant?
- Will You Get A Positive Pregnancy Test At 36 Weeks?
- Should You Get An Ultrasound At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
- Can You Detect A Heartbeat At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
- Is Pregnancy Viable At 36 Weeks?
- What Are The Common Symptoms When You Are 36 Weeks Pregnant?
- How Big Is A Baby At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Are The Common Miscarriage Symptoms At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Precautions Should I Take To Maintain My Health At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
- How Do You Calculate Your Due Date From 36 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Body Changes Should You Expect At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
- How Can You Prepare For Pregnancy?
Key Points
- Your baby is about the size of a papaya
- Your baby’s lungs are fully developed
- Your baby’s position will likely be the talking point at your doctor’s appointments; they should be head down, ready for birth
- Your healthcare provider might try to move your baby into position
- You might head off on maternity leave this week
- You should consider washing your baby’s clothes ready for them to wear in a few weeks
- You might feel tired, suffer with Braxton Hicks contractions, or headaches this week
- You might notice that you urinate when laughing or coughing this week
What Does It Mean To Be 36 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-six weeks pregnant, you are entering your final weeks of pregnancy. This week is about ensuring your baby is in the correct position for labour. Your baby drops this week, with your baby’s head facing down toward your pelvis, ready for labour. This is known as engagement, when your baby’s head engages and is getting ready to travel down the birth canal.
Your baby might already be in position or starting to get in position for this. There is still some time for them to get into place, but your midwife might want to give them a helping hand. They might put their hand on your stomach to try and coax your baby into the correct position. Should this not work, they might discuss other birthing options with you, such as a cesarian or c-section. Don’t panic; your baby still has time to get into position if this is mentioned.
This week, you might feel tired and frustrated with being pregnant. After all, you have been pregnant for months; it is normal to feel frustrated. Your baby might be kicking you a lot, making it harder for you to sleep at night. But with many pregnant women heading off on maternity leave around this time, you might find you have more time in the day to rest now. You might also find that you start nesting; this is where women feel the urge to clean, tidy, and prepare their home, or nest, for the arrival of their new baby. Reach out to your friends and family for help here, especially to tidy or clean areas that your pregnant belly makes hard to reach’12
Will You Get A Positive Pregnancy Test At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
You might not get a positive pregnancy test at thirty-six weeks pregnant. Pregnancy tests measure the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels in your urine or blood to confirm a pregnancy. During the first few months of pregnancy, your hCG levels rise dramatically before reducing during your second and third trimester.
At thirty-six weeks pregnant, your hCG levels will likely be too low to generate a positive test result on a pregnancy test. Instead, an ultrasound would be the most accurate way to confirm a pregnancy.
Should You Get An Ultrasound At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
You might be invited for an ultrasound at thirty-six weeks pregnant if you have not yet had your second third-trimester scan. You can also pay for a private ultrasound or a 4D scan at thirty-six weeks.
An ultrasound at thirty-six weeks pregnant, the position of your baby will be looked at. Ideally, your baby should be in the head-down position, ready for a smooth transition down the birth canal and labour. The move to this position can happen at any point now or might have already happened. Your midwife or doctor might try to move them into this position if they have not already or speak to you about your birthing options if your baby stays in breech (their head facing up).
An ultrasound will also check that your baby’s heart is beating as it should and there are no issues with their development and growth.
Are There Any Other Scans Or Tests I Should Consider At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-six weeks pregnant, you will likely have your blood pressure checked, along with your urine and bump size. These tests will pick up on any changes that could impact the rest of your pregnancy and delivery, like high blood pressure or an infection.
You might also have your non-stress test or cardiotocography test if you have not already had one. This test measures your baby’s heart rate during any contractions you are having to check for any issues that could impact you or your baby during labour.
You might also have another glucose tolerance screening test for gestational diabetes. These tests can be offered regularly in your third trimester if you are considered a high risk for gestational diabetes.
A group b strep test might also be offered to you. These are usually performed between thirty-five and thirty-seven weeks pregnant. Strep b can harm your baby, but getting infected is completely preventable, so ensure you have your group b strep tests!
Can You Detect A Heartbeat At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
You can detect a heartbeat at thirty-six weeks pregnant. An ultrasound, Doppler machine, or stethoscope can be used to detect your baby’s heartbeat. In between ultrasounds, your midwife will use a Doppler machine or stethoscope to monitor your baby’s heartbeat and check for any abnormalities.
You can also use a stethoscope or Doppler machine at home to listen to your baby’s heartbeat. Getting the positioning right can take a few minutes, especially if your baby moves a lot. Don’t panic if you don’t hear their heartbeat straightaway.
Your baby’s heart will be beating quickly, with their heart rate averaging between 110 and 160 beats per minute.
Is Pregnancy Viable At 36 Weeks?
A pregnancy is viable at thirty-six weeks, but your baby might face some health complications if they are born this week. A pregnancy is viable if a baby can survive outside the womb. Your baby’s lungs, brain, and nervous system fully develop by thirty-six weeks. They still need some time in your womb to gain weight, but they should be able to breathe on their own. This is a big jump from previous weeks when babies have not had fully developed lungs and does increase their chances of survival.
Babies born at thirty-six weeks have a nearly 100% chance of survival, according to the National Library of Medicine. Only about 5% of babies born at thirty-six weeks need to spend time in a neonatal intensive care unit, too! There is still a chance your baby will need care from doctors and nurses, but their odds are improving every week that they spend in your womb.
What Are The Common Pregnancy Symptoms At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-six weeks pregnant, it is common to notice some urine leaking when you cough or laugh. Your body is relaxing your pelvic floor muscles around the bladder in preparation for labour. Wearing maternity pads can help soak this up, and you can practice pelvic floor exercises to prevent this.
It is also common to notice pelvic pain this week, which can be caused by your baby getting into the head-down position. You might also feel tired this week, see weight gain, or experience some headaches.
These symptoms vary from woman to woman and change in severity daily. Don’t worry if your symptoms differ from other pregnant women; everybody reacts to pregnancy differently.
Is There Any Change To HCG Levels At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Your hCG levels continue to fall this week, averaging between 940 and 60,000 u/L.
Should I Expect Any Cramping At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Cramping can happen this week. This could be caused by Braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains on the side of your bump, or you might experience leg cramps. Keep an eye on any cramping and other symptoms that come with it, and speak to your midwife or doctor if you have any concerns.
Will I Experience Morning Sickness At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Morning sickness usually happens in the first sixteen weeks or so of pregnancy, but some women experience morning sickness and nausea at thirty-six weeks pregnant.
Will My Breasts Feel Tender At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Your breasts might feel tender this week. They might also leak colostrum, a yellow liquid that is your early milk and is full of antibodies. You can add breast pads to your bras to keep yourself dry and stain-free. Your breasts might also ache and feel full this week.
Will I Have Food Cravings At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Food cravings can happen throughout pregnancy, including at thirty-six weeks pregnant. You might crave foods you previously didn’t like or unusual combinations.
Will I Pass Urine More Frequently At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
You might pass urine more frequently at thirty-six weeks pregnant. As your baby moves into the engaged position, ready for delivery, they can add pressure to your bladder, making you need to urinate more frequently.
Ensure you stay hydrated when this happens, and empty your bladder when you feel the urge to prevent infections.
Will I Feel Tiredness Or Fatigue At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Tiredness or fatigue is common at thirty-six weeks pregnant. Many pregnant women struggle to remain comfortable during the night or are kept awake by their wriggling babies.
Napping during the day can help your body get the rest it needs. You can also sleep with a pillow between your knees or a pregnancy pillow to keep you comfortable.
Will I Feel Bloated At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
You might feel bloated at thirty-six weeks pregnant. Swapping your usual three meals a day for smaller meals can help, along with avoiding eating late at night.
Will I Get A Headache At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Headaches are common during pregnancy, including at thirty-six weeks pregnant. Typically, women who suffer from headaches frequently will experience more headaches during pregnancy. You can take pain relief to help with your headaches, but be sure they are suitable for you to take during pregnancy.
Will I Experience A Metallic Taste In My Mouth At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
A metallic taste in your mouth is more common during the first trimester of pregnancy, but you might also experience it at thirty-six weeks pregnant.
Will I Have A Heightened Sense Of Smell At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
A heightened sense of smell is more common during the first few months of pregnancy, but you might experience it at thirty-six weeks pregnant.
Can You Experience Shortness Of Breath At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
You might notice that your shortness of breath improves at thirty-six weeks pregnant. As your baby drops in your body, more space opens up for your lungs, making it easier for you to breathe.
Speak to your doctor if you are worried about shortness of breath at thirty-six weeks pregnant.
Is It Normal To Get Diarrhea At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Diarrhea at thirty-six weeks pregnant can be a sign of early labour. Look out for other symptoms like contractions that could indicate early labour. Speak to your doctor or midwife to see if you are in labour.
Once labour is ruled out, monitor your diarrhea and speak to your doctor if it does not improve after forty-eight hours.
Can You Get Vaginal Discharge At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Vaginal discharge happens throughout pregnancy, including at thirty-six weeks. Your discharge should be milky or white with little to no odour. Any changes in your discharge should be reported to your doctor or midwife as it could be a sign of an infection.
Will I Experience Lower Back Pain At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Lower back pain can happen at thirty-six weeks pregnant. Your muscles and ligaments are looser to allow for your growing baby, which can add pressure to your back, causing pain. A hot or cold compress can help with lower back pain, but be sure to speak to your doctor if you struggle to cope.
Will I Experience Mood Swings At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Mood swings usually happen in the first trimester, but some women experience them at thirty-six weeks pregnant. Pregnancy hormones and their fluctuating levels are generally to blame for mood swings.
Is Spotting Normal At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Any spotting should be reported to your midwife or doctor immediately. It could be harmless, but it could also be a sign of pregnancy complications. It is better to check it out immediately, especially if you have cramping and light bleeding.
What Other Symptoms Are Common When 36 Weeks Pregnant?
The following symptoms are also common at thirty-six weeks pregnant:
- Shinier and thicker hair
- Spotty and oily skin
- Brown patches or darkened skin on your face
- Urine infections
- Vaginal infections
- Swollen ankles, hands, and feet
- Dizziness
- Raised basal temperature (feeling hot)
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- Backache
- Piles
- Swollen and bleeding gums
- Stretch marks
How Big Is A Baby At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Your baby has grown again and is around 47.7 cm long from head to heel. They are about the size of a romaine lettuce. Your baby’s development has progressed, too! Your baby’s lungs are fully developed and can breathe independently.
Your baby can now suck and digest breast milk too. You might not have decided yet if you will try breastfeeding your baby. Breastfeeding does have many benefits, including helping your baby fight infections, and you can burn calories while doing it. However, breastfeeding isn’t a viable option for everyone; you can speak to your midwife if you are unsure which is the best option for you and your family.
Can You Feel The Baby At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
Yes, you can feel your baby at thirty-six weeks pregnant. Your baby does not have as much room in your uterus as previously, but that won’t stop them kicking and wriggling. Your baby might also be moving into a position ready for labour. Your baby’s position might be all your doctor or midwives have discussed recently, but there is a good reason why! Your baby needs to be in the correct position for an uncomplicated vaginal birth. Your midwife might try to move your baby from outside your stomach into the correct position. This is called the external cephalic version (ECV) and has around a 50% success rate. When this happens, you might feel your baby move quite a bit, putting pressure on your stomach or bladder as they move.
Keep tracking your baby’s movements this week, too. Any changes to your baby’s movements should be immediately reported to your doctor or midwife. Decreased movements or movements suddenly stopping can be a sign of complications or an issue with your baby. You should be checked over in the hospital immediately if this happens.
What Are The Common Symptoms Of Miscarriage At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-six weeks pregnant, a miscarriage is considered a stillbirth. The most common symptom is that your baby stops moving. You might also notice bleeding, abdominal pain or cramping, and other pregnancy symptoms disappearing. You might find that your waters break, you have contractions, and you deliver your baby quickly.
Some women have no symptoms and won’t know anything is wrong until they attend an antenatal appointment or ultrasound and a heartbeat cannot be found. You will need to give birth to your baby at this stage in your pregnancy. This is usually done in a hospital, with medication offered to induce labour and speed the process up. Some women can return home to wait for labour to start, but this depends on any complications you might be experiencing.
Your doctor and midwife will be on hand to offer you guidance and support and can help set up long-term support to help you through this difficult time.
What Are The Chances Of Miscarriage At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
The chance of a stillbirth at thirty-six weeks pregnant is very low for a healthy and uncomplicated pregnancy. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare found that in 2020, 2.6 of every 1,000 births were stillborn. This includes high-risk pregnancies and those with complications. While this number is higher than in other countries in the world, it does show there is a low chance of stillbirth at thirty-six weeks pregnant.
Some factors can increase your chance of a stillbirth, including smoking and drinking during pregnancy, your weight, and any pregnancy complications. Your doctor can explain how these factors might impact you and your pregnancy.
What Precautions Should I Take To Maintain My Health At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
The following precautions should be taken to maintain your health at thirty-six weeks pregnant.
Continue Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Keep taking your prenatal vitamins this week unless you are told otherwise by your doctor. You should look for a rental multivitamin to give you and your baby the nutrients you need to maintain a healthy pregnancy. You should look for one with high levels of iron, too, especially if you struggle to get enough iron in your diet. You should also look for a multivitamin high in Vitamin D if you are pregnant in the winter.
Eat A Healthy And Balanced Diet
You should eat a healthy and balanced diet this week, too. Your doctor might recommend that you eat an additional 200 calories a day, but there is no need to consume more than this. Keep your diet balanced and varied to ensure you and your baby have the correct nutrition. Your diet should contain lean protein, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, and carbohydrates. You can speak to your doctor if you need help with your diet.
Stay Hydrated
You should also drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Not only will you be hydrated, but drinking water is vital for pregnancy. Research by the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists found that drinking water aids digestion, circulates nutrients, and helps form the amniotic fluid around your baby.
They recommend drinking eight to twelve cups a day during pregnancy.
Stop Smoking
You should stop smoking as soon as you discover you are pregnant. Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)found that smoking during pregnancy doubles your risk of abnormal bleeding.
Smoking also increases your baby’s chance of congenital disabilities and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). There is no safe amount of cigarettes to smoke during pregnancy, and they should be abstained from. You can speak to your doctor if you need help to stop smoking.
Are There Any Foods I Should Avoid At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-six weeks pregnant, the following foods should be avoided.
- Raw juices and smoothies
- Highly processed foods
- Soft cheeses
- Unpasteurised dairy and dairy products
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables
- Raw sprouts
- Organ meat
- Raw or undercooked eggs
- Deli or processed meat
- Raw or undercooked meat
- Raw or undercooked fish
- Seafood with high mercury content
Are There Any Drinks I Should Avoid At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
You should avoid all alcoholic drinks at thirty-six weeks pregnant. Alcohol is extremely dangerous during pregnancy, and there is no safe amount to consume. Research by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists found that drinking alcohol while pregnant increases your risk of stillbirth, preterm birth, how your baby grows in your uterus, and can make them more prone to illness during childhood.
You can speak to your doctor if you need help to stop drinking alcohol during pregnancy.
You should also reduce your caffeine intake during pregnancy. The Royal College of Midwives found that consuming more than 350mg of caffeine a day increases your risk of low birth weight, preterm labour, or stillbirth. They recommend consuming no more than 200mg of caffeine daily during pregnancy.
Are There Any Supplements I Should Avoid At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
You should avoid any supplements that your doctor does not recommend taking at thirty-six weeks pregnant. Most supplements are labelled unsuitable for pregnant women to consume, as they could harm your baby. Speak to your doctor if you are unsure about taking supplements during pregnancy.
Can I Exercise While 36 Weeks Pregnant?
You can exercise at thirty-six weeks pregnant, provided you feel comfortable to do so. You should focus on low-impact exercises like walking and swimming to avoid adding pressure to your body. You can also add some stretches to relieve any sore muscles.
When exercising this late in your pregnancy, avoid pushing yourself too far. It is better to take a shorter walk than to risk overdoing it and exhausting yourself. Besides, there are only a few more weeks before your little one is here, and before you know it, you will be heading out on long family walks.
Is It Safe To Travel When 36 Weeks Pregnant?
It is no longer advisory that you fly. Most airlines do not accept passengers who are thirty-six weeks pregnant, as you could go into labour in the air or suffer from complications. You might still be able to travel, but you should speak to your doctor about this before planning any trips.
Are There Any Acitivites I Should Avoid At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
The following activities should be avoided at thirty-six weeks pregnant.
- Roller coasters, bumper cars, and water slides
- Motorcycles and four-wheelers
- Contact sports
- Diving
- Downhill skiing
- Gymnastics
- Hot Yoga
- Hot pilates
- Horseriding
- Hot tubs
- Sauna
- Scuba diving
- Skydiving
- Snowboarding
- Waterskiing
- Cleaning cat litter
- Horseriding
- Hot tubs
- Sauna
- Scuba diving
- Skydiving
- Snowboarding
- Waterskiing
- Cleaning cat litter
Is It Safe To Have Sex When 36 Weeks Pregnant?
It is considered safe to have sex at thirty-six weeks pregnant unless you are told otherwise by your doctor or midwife.
How Should I Sleep At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
You might struggle to sleep at thirty-six weeks pregnant. Your baby might keep you awake, kicking you, or you might find it hard to get comfortable in bed. You can add extra pillows to relieve sore areas or use a pregnancy pillow to help you get comfortable. Napping during the day is an excellent way to get your rest in, especially if this is when your baby usually doesn’t move as much.
What Position Is It Safe To Sleep In When 36 Weeks Pregnant?
The safest position to sleep in at thirty-six weeks pregnant is on your side. This position will not add extra pressure to your baby or placenta.
How Do You Calculate Your Due Date From 36 Weeks Pregnant?
The best way to work out your due date is to use the date of your last menstrual period. This is the LMP method and is the most common way to calculate a due date. Take the first day of your last period and count forward forty weeks or 280 days to have your estimated due date.
Your midwife or doctor will also give you an estimated due date. This is usually given during your first ultrasound, the dating scan. Your baby is measured, and their development is assessed to estimate how far into your pregnancy you are. This will give you an estimated due date.
Remember, these due dates are simply estimates. It is common to give birth before or after your due date; don’t panic if your due date passes and no baby arrives.
What Body Changes Should You Expect At 36 Weeks Pregnant?
The biggest body change this week is your baby moving into position for labour. Your baby might move into the head-down position, dropping in your body and resting near your pelvis. When this happens, you might feel vaginal pressure, but you can also feel relief as the space around your lungs opens up, making it easier for you to breathe.
This can also change how your baby bump looks, but don’t worry, this is a good sign! You might notice some painless contractions, known as Braxton Hicks, this week too. These can continue for the next few weeks until labour begins, but speak to your doctor if they last more than a minute or so or become painful.
Some women also lose their mucus plug this week. This typically does not happen until pregnancy week thirty-seven, but some women have reported losing their mucus plug sooner. Other women do not lose their mucus plug until right before delivery, so don’t panic if you don’t notice any changes.
What Is Your Body Doing During This Process?
Your body continues to pump an increased blood flow this week. Doing so means that your body’s blood flow is slower than usual. This can leave you lightheaded or dizzy, especially if you stand up too quickly. Remember to take your time moving and standing up.
Your body is starting to prepare for labour, too, this week. You might notice that pressure changes in your body as your baby descends. Your pelvis will begin to relax to allow for it to stretch as you give birth. This can cause pelvic pain, which is completely normal; do not panic. Speak to your doctor if any. of the pain you experience during pregnancy concerns you.
How Can You Prepare For Pregnancy?
The following tips will help you prepare for the rest of your pregnancy.
Pack Your Hospital Bag
You should pack your hospital bag if you have not already. Your due date is fast approaching, and you must be prepared if you go into labour sooner! Add all your essential items, including clothing, toiletries, and maternity pads, to a bag ready to use in the hospital. You will also need to pack your baby’s items, including baby clothes, nappies, and bottles, if you choose not to breastfeed.
It can be tricky to know what to add to your hospital bag. Your midwife can advise you on what you need to take, or you can check out one of the many videos online showing you what is needed for your hospital bag. This video is our favourite.
Confirm Your Birthing Plan
Your midwife might ask you to confirm your birthing plan this week. You might have been asked to choose between a hospital or birthing center when deciding where to give birth. You can ask your midwife for more information about these if you are not sure, as women with complications in their pregnancy will be offered different advice to others.
You might want to make changes to your birthing plan this week, too, such as who you want as your birthing partner or if you need any pain relief. Ensure you make the changes clear to your midwife and check they are included in your plan.
Remember, a birthing plan is only a plan. Things might change when you are giving birth, or complications might develop in the days leading up to your due date. Don’t panic when this happens; your doctors and midwife are on hand to help you.
Gather Your Baby’s Items
As your due date approaches, start gathering your baby’ items. All clothing needs to be washed before your newborn can wear it; now is an excellent opportunity to do this. Also, add any finishing touches to your nursery, build the cot, or assemble the car seat. Your growing belly can make some of these tasks difficult, so call in the help of friends, family, or your partner to gather your remaining items for your baby.
Attend Birthing Classes
This could be one of the last opportunities to attend birthing classes in your local area, so why not take advantage? Here, you can gain information about labour and delivery, learn breathing techniques, and ask any questions that you might have about giving birth.
You might also meet other pregnant women in your area. These women could quickly become friends and part of your support network as you help each other through the remainder of your pregnancy and the new chapters in your lives as mothers.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, everything to expect during week thirty-six of pregnancy! You are in the final weeks of your pregnancy now, and while you might feel fed up, the end is in sight. It won’t be long before your baby arrives and is placed in your arms. Remember to use our tips to continue preparing for your new life of motherhood!