Pregnancy week 36
By week 36 of pregnancy, the uterus has expanded to almost 6 inches from the belly button and will continue to grow until delivery. After delivery, however, it will take only about 6 weeks for the uterus to go back to its normal size. The baby at week 36 is enjoying putting on weight and has grown to about 6 pounds and probably around 20 inches. After this week the baby enters into full term, which means that it could arrive safely anytime from 37 to 41 weeks. Also during this week, and throughout the third trimester, the doctor should be keeping an eye out for a condition known as polyhydramnios. As the baby swallows and urinates amniotic fluid, a very delicate balance is maintained inside the womb. If this balance is shifted in either direction, there is a chance that this condition might arise. Although the bulk of pregnancy in the third trimester cannot be overlooked, swimming is a good way relieve some of the stress of the extra weight on the body, especially when the extra work the body is performing induces more body heat to be generated. About 2400 calories should be consumed from this point on to ensure healthy baby growth.
Although exactly how labor is induced is not certain, new research shows that the baby’s brain delivers the messages to begin when it has entirely developed. Other research shows that the lungs are what initiate labor when they have matured. Either way, a message is sent to the uterus to begin contracting and the body to release prostaglandins. Some signs signaling that labor is approaching include lightening, or when the baby drops into the pelvis, a bloody show, when the mucus plug has been released, or having the membrane holding in the amniotic fluid, rupture. Some women fear that their water will break in a very disquieting situation. However, only about a third of the time will the water actually break before the inception of labor. Because the baby could literally arrive any moment, it is important to keep the hospital bags packed and have the paperwork done by week 36 of pregnancy.
Current guidance (today's medical sources): Around week thirty-six the baby is usually head-down and its lungs and digestive system are nearly ready for life outside the womb. The baby may drop lower into the pelvis, sometimes easing breathing but adding pelvic pressure. Many people now have weekly prenatal visits and discuss what to expect at the onset of labour.
Contact your healthcare provider promptly about heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, a high fever, severe or sudden headache, vision changes, or fainting. Seek urgent care if you are worried — these can be signs that need medical attention.
Sources: NHS — 36 weeks pregnant; Mayo Clinic — Fetal development: The 3rd trimester; ACOG — How to Tell When Labor Begins. Informational only. See our sources & medical-review policy.
Frequently asked questions
How many months is 36 weeks pregnant?
Week 36 falls in the third trimester. Pregnancy is usually counted in weeks (about 40 in total) rather than months, because weeks are more precise.
What is happening to the baby at 36 weeks?
The baby is usually head-down; lungs and digestive system are nearly ready for birth.
What symptoms are common at week 36?
The baby may 'drop' lower into the pelvis (lightening); visits are weekly for many. Symptoms vary a lot from person to person; discuss anything that worries you with your healthcare provider.
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See the week-by-week guide →Informational only — not medical advice. Pregnancy Week to Week is a general educational reference. It is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is different: always consult your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare provider about your own pregnancy, and never disregard or delay professional advice because of something you read here. In an emergency, contact your maternity unit or local emergency number immediately.