Pregnancy Week 35: What to Expect This Week

You’ve reached Pregnancy Week 35, and if it feels like there’s no more room at the inn (aka your uterus), you’re probably right. Baby is taking up serious space now, and everything from your sleep to your shoes might be feeling the strain.

But you’re nearly there—and there’s still plenty going on in both your body and baby’s development this week.

Baby at Pregnancy Week 35

At Pregnancy Week 35, your baby is about 46cm long and weighs around 2.4kg. They’re looking increasingly like the newborn you’ll soon meet, complete with chubby cheeks and the beginnings of those squishy little wrists and ankles.

Here’s what else is happening:

The kidneys and liver are fully developed and working away

Lungs are almost ready—another week or two and they’ll be good to go

Baby continues to build up fat stores to help with temperature regulation after birth

Most babies are now in a head-down position, but there’s still time to turn if not

You’ll probably notice movements feel different now—less kicking, more rolling and stretching. As always, if anything feels off, give your midwife a ring.

Your Symptoms at Pregnancy Week 35

Let’s be honest: Pregnancy Week 35 can be uncomfortable. Your bump is big, your bladder is squashed, and lying down isn’t quite the relief it used to be.

Common symptoms include:

Pelvic pressure or discomfort

Stronger Braxton Hicks contractions

Swollen feet and ankles

Backache or hip pain

Restless sleep (and the need for multiple pillows)

Leaky boobs – your body may already be producing colostrum

Midwife tip: If colostrum has made an appearance, now’s a great time to consider colostrum harvesting. Our kit includes everything you need, plus video guidance to keep it safe and simple.

Shop the Colostrum Harvesting Kit

What to Do at Pregnancy Week 35

You’re close enough now that it’s worth tying up some loose ends and getting mentally and practically prepped for birth.

Talk through your birth preferences with your partner or support team
Make sure your hospital bag checklist is underway (even if not fully packed)
Finish any antenatal courses you’ve started
Install the car seat or book in help to fit it safely
Think ahead to the early days postpartum—who’s your village?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry. One step at a time is more than enough.

Honest Midwife Thoughts

Pregnancy Week 35 is a strange one—close, but not quite there yet. You might be feeling excited, nervous, impatient, or like you’ve been pregnant since the dawn of time.

Totally normal.

Now is a great time to top up your knowledge, build your confidence, and take care of yourself in the process. The more you understand your options, the easier it is to stay calm if things take an unexpected turn.

And if you’re not sure where to start, we’ve got you.

Feeling Ready? Join Us for a Class

At Pregnancy Week 35, these classes are especially helpful:

C-Section Planning Workshop – ideal whether it’s booked, suggested, or a just-in-case
Infant Feeding Workshop – learn what to expect in the early days, with expert guidance
Natural Labour & Birth – our popular free class that covers the basics of physiological birth
Hypnobirthing Course – practical, mindset-based tools to support any kind of birth