Week 36
Third TrimesterBaby Drops
Baby is likely settling into the pelvis now — a process called 'lightening.' Breathing may feel easier, though pelvic pressure increases.
Baby engages — lightening
This week's tip
💡 Rest as much as possible this week — labor is physically demanding, and every hour of sleep you bank now is energy you'll draw on when the moment comes.
Baby this week
🍉
About the size of
a watermelon
Length
47.4 cm
Weight
2.60 kg
Development
- Baby is likely in a head-down position and may be engaging in the pelvis.
- Gums are ridged in preparation for feeding.
- Lanugo is mostly gone.
- Vernix is present but beginning to diminish.
- All organ systems are developed and functional.
How you might feel
- Lightening — baby dropping — may relieve pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing easier.
- Significant pelvic pressure and waddle-walk are common.
- You may be visiting your care provider weekly now.
- Mucus plug may release — this can happen days to weeks before labor.
Things to do this week
- Weekly prenatal appointments begin — attend every one
- Confirm who will drive you to the hospital and have a backup plan
- Ensure all newborn essentials are organized and accessible
- Rest — labor and birth will require tremendous energy
When to contact your care team
This is general guidance, not medical advice.
- Contact your care team if you see your mucus plug with blood and contractions start — labor may be beginning.
Partner tip
Confirm your time-off plan and be fully present. The baby could come any day from here.