Baby development at 34 weeks
Nail Growth Milestone
By 34 weeks, your baby’s fingernails extend to the tips of their tiny fingers, while their toenails will reach the ends of their toes by the 38th week. It might be a good time to prepare those infant nail clippers!
Adorable Chubbiness
Everywhere on your baby, delightful chubbiness is taking over as their arms and legs begin to plump up.
Developing Senses
Your baby is becoming more responsive to sounds, light, and touch. By the following week, their ears will be fully formed, marking another step in their sensory development.
Your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe
Pregnancy symptoms during week 34
Aches and Discomforts in Pregnancy
Experiencing aches and pains during pregnancy, particularly at the 34-week mark, is quite common. Many expectant mothers encounter pelvic and lower-back pain due to the additional weight of the growing baby, putting extra strain on joints in the pelvis, groin, legs, and buttocks. The expanding belly shifts the center of gravity forward, stretching and weakening abdominal muscles supporting the spine and back.
Hormonal changes contribute to heightened pelvic girdle pain, causing joints to relax and weaken. This discomfort can limit mobility and be quite uncomfortable. Round ligament pain is another common occurrence, manifesting as a brief, sharp, stabbing pain or a lingering dull ache in the lower belly or groin. As the uterus expands to accommodate the baby, the round ligaments connecting it to the abdominal wall undergo stretching.
Sciatica, characterized by a sharp, shooting pain starting in the buttocks and traveling down the leg, is also prevalent during pregnancy. This results from the pressure exerted on the sciatic nerve by the growing uterus and baby.
Consulting with your doctor or midwife is advisable if you experience any pain during pregnancy. They can provide guidance on managing and alleviating discomfort. It’s especially crucial to seek medical attention if lower back pain suddenly intensifies, as it could indicate preterm labor.
Dealing with Constipation
Approximately half of pregnant women face constipation due to increased progesterone levels, causing relaxation of digestive tract muscles. Slower food movement down the digestive tract is a common result. Staying hydrated becomes challenging as blood volume increases, and water retention occurs. Reduced physical activity can also contribute to constipation. Maintaining an active lifestyle, drinking ample water, and increasing fiber intake can help. While over-the-counter stool softeners are an option, laxatives should be avoided. Proactive management of constipation not only enhances well-being but also helps prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
Irregular uterine contractions known as Braxton Hicks may have started earlier in pregnancy but become more noticeable in the third trimester. Although generally not painful, these “practice contractions” can intensify and increase in frequency. They do not lead to notable changes in the cervix and are not indicative of labor. Rest, hydration, and avoiding fatigue can alleviate the intensity of Braxton Hicks contractions. If contractions become more regular or if there are concerns, contacting the healthcare provider is recommended.
Managing Fatigue
By the 34th week, fatigue may have returned, albeit possibly not as overwhelming as during the first trimester. Understandably, the physical strain and disrupted sleep patterns contribute to tiredness. Addressing trouble sleeping during late pregnancy is crucial. Healthcare providers can offer strategies and, if necessary, suggest safe sleep medications. Persistent fatigue may also signal underlying issues like iron-deficiency anemia or depression, requiring professional assistance.
Vaginal Discharge Changes
Vaginal discharge is normal during pregnancy, characterized by a milky-white or clear appearance with a mild smell. Brown discharge, containing old blood, is also common. However, green discharge, unpleasant odor, pain, itching, or any unusual changes may indicate an infection or other issues.
Towards the end of pregnancy, the mucus plug may be expelled, resulting in increased vaginal discharge. Distinguishing between normal discharge and amniotic fluid is essential. Amniotic fluid typically leaks continuously, appearing clear or slightly yellowish, watery, and odorless or slightly sweet-smelling. Noteworthy changes in vaginal discharge should be promptly discussed with a healthcare provider.
Leaking Breasts
In preparation for childbirth, some pregnant women may experience leaking breasts in the final weeks of pregnancy. This is a normal occurrence caused by hormonal changes regulating milk production. The liquid observed is colostrum, a highly nutritious substance rich in protein and antibodies, essential for strengthening the baby’s immune system.
There is no need to intervene if breasts are leaking, but nursing pads can be used for absorption if it becomes bothersome. Leaking is a natural part of the body’s preparation for breastfeeding, and it poses no cause for concern.
Pregnancy checklist at 34 weeks
Consider the role of a postpartum doula: A postpartum doula is equipped to assist you in adapting to life with a newborn. Trained to offer care and guidance in the initial days or weeks post-birth, these doulas extend their support to various aspects. From cooking and tending to older children to running errands and managing housework, their aim is to provide assistance in whatever way you require.
To locate a postpartum doula, seek recommendations from your healthcare provider, childbirth instructor, or community contacts. Alternatively, explore options through Doulas of North America (DONA). Ensure you inquire about their training and experience, fees and services covered, as well as their availability. Additionally, gather references from other families who have benefited from their services.
Embark on a shoe-shopping expedition: Acknowledge the changes your feet may have undergone during pregnancy, possibly due to edema or relaxed joints. These alterations, along with any foot discomfort, warrant a trip to the shoe store. Explore options for the best pregnancy shoes to guide your purchase decisions.
Experiment with perineal massage: As your due date approaches, contemplate incorporating perineal massage into your routine. This practice involves softening and stretching the pelvic floor muscles in preparation for a vaginal birth. Whether self-administered or assisted by your partner, regular perineal massage may reduce the likelihood of tearing, scarring, or requiring stitches in the perineal area. It can also alleviate postpartum pelvic pain and diminish the risk of incontinence after childbirth.
Reassess keepsake ultrasounds: While 3D ultrasounds from private clinics are trendy, healthcare providers often discourage them due to insufficient knowledge about potential risks. The Food and Drug Administration strongly advises against 3D and 4D ultrasounds for keepsake purposes. If interested in 3D ultrasound images, inquire with your provider, as they may offer them during a regular scan or schedule an additional session at an out-of-pocket cost, ensuring the procedure is conducted by a trained professional.
Be aware of preeclampsia warning signs: Preeclampsia, a serious blood pressure disorder, typically manifests after 37 weeks but can occur earlier. Stay vigilant for signs such as facial or eye swelling, substantial hand or foot swelling, and rapid weight gain. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
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