Week 34: Feeling the 'Lightening'
Your baby is now about the size of a cantaloupe.
Avg. Length: 45 cm
(Crown to Heel)
Your Baby This Week
Your baby might be dropping into the pelvis, a move called 'engagement'. Vernix gets thicker, protecting baby's skin. Fingernails reach the fingertips, and if your baby is a boy, his testicles are moving into the scrotum.
Your Body This Week
You might feel some relief! As baby 'drops' into your pelvis—a process called lightening—breathlessness and heartburn may ease. The trade-off? More pressure on your bladder and a new waddle in your walk.
Tips for Your Partner
Time for some key prep work. Discuss and finalize your birth plan, confirm your delivery hospital, and—most importantly—buy and properly install the infant car seat. Getting this done now will be a huge relief later.
References
[1]
34 weeks pregnant guide - Best Start in Life - NHShttps://www.nhs.uk/best-start-in-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/3rd-trimester/week-34/
[2]
Fetal Development: Week-by-Week Stages of Pregnancy - Cleveland Clinichttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth
[3]
Fetal development: The third trimester - Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/fetal-development/art-20045997