Week 35 of Pregnancy

Pregnancy Week 35 continues to bring important growth, as your baby's kidneys and liver near full function. Healthcare providers calculate pregnancy from the first day of your last menstrual period, and by week 35 your baby is often compared to the size of a honeydew melon.

Understanding week 35 of pregnancy can help you know what is happening in your body as your baby prepares for the final weeks before birth.

What Happens During Week 35 of Pregnancy?

During week 35, your baby's kidneys are now fully developed, and the liver continues maturing to process waste products. Your baby continues gaining weight rapidly, with less room to move as space in the womb becomes increasingly limited.

Some people may begin to notice their baby settling lower into the pelvis in preparation for birth, though the timing varies widely.

What Are the Symptoms of Pregnancy in Week 35?

Pregnancy symptoms in week 35 often reflect a growing bump and increasingly limited space in the womb.

• Pelvic Pressure

As your baby continues growing and may begin settling lower, pelvic pressure can become more noticeable.

• Frequent Urination

As the uterus grows and puts pressure on the bladder, frequent urination often continues.

• Braxton Hicks Contractions

Mild, irregular tightening of the uterus can continue to occur, sometimes more frequently.

• Backache

As your bump continues to grow, mild back discomfort can persist.

• Trouble Sleeping

A growing bump and limited space can continue to make comfortable sleep more difficult.

Baby Development in Week 35

• Kidneys Fully Developed

Your baby's kidneys are now fully developed and functioning.

• Liver Continues Maturing

Your baby's liver continues maturing to help process waste products.

• Rapid Weight Gain Continues

Your baby continues gaining weight rapidly as fat stores continue to build.

How Does Your Body Change During Week 35?

Week 35 is mainly characterised by continued uterine growth and, for some, early signs of the baby settling lower.

• Uterus Continues Rising

Your uterus continues growing steadily, taking up increasing space in the abdomen.

• Baby May Begin Settling Lower

Some people notice their baby beginning to settle lower into the pelvis, sometimes called lightening.

• Weight Gain Continues

Steady, healthy weight gain often continues as your baby grows.

Curious about your baby's growth this week? Explore early pregnancy ultrasound and prenatal packages at Max Lab.

What Should You Eat During Week 35 of Pregnancy?

A nutrient-dense diet remains important in week 35, especially as your baby's kidneys and liver near full function.

• Choose Iron-Rich Foods

Iron supports your rising blood volume and helps prevent fatigue. Good sources include lean meat, beans, chickpeas, lentils and spinach.

• Include Protein in Your Diet

Protein supports your baby's rapidly developing organs and tissues. Eggs, fish, chicken, paneer, tofu, beans and lentils are useful sources.

• Choose Healthy Fats

Foods such as avocados, nuts and olive oil support your baby's continued fat stores.

• Eat Smaller, Frequent Meals

Smaller meals can help ease pressure on the stomach as your bump continues to grow.

• Stay Hydrated

Adequate water intake can help support your baby's kidney function and ease swelling.

What Foods and Substances Should You Avoid?

As your baby's kidneys and liver near full function, avoiding certain substances and foods remains an important part of a healthy pregnancy.

• Alcohol and Tobacco

Avoid alcohol and smoking completely, as they can affect your baby's developing brain and organs.

• Excessive Caffeine

Keep caffeine intake within the limits recommended by your healthcare provider.

• Raw or Undercooked Foods

Choose properly cooked foods and follow good food-safety practices, avoiding raw or undercooked meat, eggs, unpasteurised dairy and high-mercury fish.

• Highly Processed Foods

Limit foods high in added sugars, excess salt and unhealthy fats, and focus instead on a varied, nutrient-rich diet.

Exercise During Week 35 of Pregnancy

Gentle movement can help ease pelvic pressure and support circulation, though it is important to listen to your body and rest when needed.

Choose activities that are comfortable for your fitness level, and avoid suddenly starting strenuous exercise without appropriate guidance.

• Walking and Gentle Exercise

Walking is a simple, low-impact way to stay active and may help support your baby's positioning.

• Stretching and Yoga

Gentle stretching and suitable prenatal yoga practices can support flexibility, relaxation and help ease pelvic pressure.

How Can You Prepare for a Healthy Pregnancy?

Week 35 is a good time to finalise preparations for labour and delivery.

• Complete Your Group B Strep Test - This test, typically performed between weeks 35 and 37, checks for a common bacterium that can be passed to the baby during delivery.

• Continue Prenatal Vitamins - Keep taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid as recommended by your doctor.

• Finalise Your Route to the Hospital - Confirm your route and transportation plan for when labour begins.

• Get Adequate Rest - Continue prioritising sleep and rest as your body adjusts to a growing bump.

• Manage Stress - Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, gentle yoga or deep breathing.

What Tests and Checkups Are Useful During Week 35?

Your healthcare provider may recommend a combination of tests around this stage to confirm your baby's development and monitor your health.

• Group B Strep Test

This test, typically performed between weeks 35 and 37, checks for a common bacterium that can affect newborns.

• Routine Prenatal Check-Up

Regular check-ups continue to monitor your health and your baby's growth, often occurring weekly from this stage.

• Fundal Height Measurement

Your provider continues measuring the height of your uterus to track your baby's growth and positioning.

Week 35 Pregnancy Care Tips

A few simple habits can help you manage symptoms and support your baby's development this week:

• Continue taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid.

• Eat smaller, frequent meals to ease pressure on your stomach.

• Stay well hydrated throughout the day.

• Get plenty of rest.

• Avoid alcohol, smoking and unapproved medications.

• Complete your Group B Strep test as scheduled.

• Manage stress with relaxation techniques.

• Avoid self-medicating without consulting your doctor.

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

Some symptoms should not be dismissed without medical evaluation. Speak with a healthcare provider if you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, high fever, severe dizziness or fainting, severe vomiting, or unusual vaginal discharge.

If you have an existing health condition or take regular medication, discussing your health with a healthcare provider early in pregnancy is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pregnancy Week 35

• How big is my baby at week 35?

Your baby is typically about the size of a honeydew melon at week 35, with fully developed kidneys.

• What does it mean when a baby settles lower?

Some babies begin settling lower into the pelvis in the weeks before birth, sometimes called lightening, though the timing varies widely between pregnancies.

• What is the Group B Strep test for?

The Group B Strep test checks for a common bacterium that, if present, can be passed to the baby during delivery, allowing your provider to plan appropriate care.

• What should I eat during Week 35?

Focus on iron, protein and healthy fats, along with smaller, frequent meals to ease pressure on your stomach.

• Can I exercise during Week 35?

If you are healthy and have no medical restrictions, gentle activities such as walking and prenatal yoga can support overall fitness during this stage.

• When should I see a doctor during Week 35?

Seek medical advice for heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, high fever, severe dizziness or fainting, severe vomiting, or other unusual or concerning symptoms.