34 Weeks pregnant: Baby Development, symptoms & tips

Your Body at Week 34

Pelvic Pain

By 34 weeks, your baby is likely already facing head down, in preparation for birth. They are still growing while in this position, and likely putting extra pressure on your bladder, bones, ligaments, and other organs [2]. This pressure in your pelvic region can make you need to pee more often, and can feel uncomfortable or even painful. 

Pain in the joints of the pelvic area is sometimes referred to as pelvic girdle pain (PGP) or symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD). Symptoms vary between individuals but can include a clicking or grinding sensation in the pelvic region, or pain in the pubic area, hips, lower back, knees, thighs, or groin [2]. PGP affects one in five mothers [2] and can be severe, often made worse by certain movements, such as standing on one leg, rolling over in bed, or moving your knees apart. 

Although it doesn't cause any harm to your baby and it won't stop you from having a vaginal delivery, PGP can severely affect your daily life. To help relieve the pain, try to avoid movements that make your symptoms worse, avoid sitting or standing for too long (more than 30 minutes), and avoid heavy lifting [2]. Pelvic exercises using a gym or birthing ball can help ease this pain. Try pelvic circles by sitting on the ball and slowly rotating your hips. Take your time, and don’t forget to repeat in the opposite direction.

Blurry vision

You may be surprised to hear that pregnancy in the third trimester can cause dry eyes and blurry vision. While the exact cause is unknown, it is thought to be a side effect of hormone changes in the fluid around the eyes [3]. 

If you wear contact lenses, you may find them to be suddenly irritating or uncomfortable. Keep your glasses nearby, just in case. Let your healthcare practitioner know of any vision changes — sometimes blurry vision can be a symptom of complications such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, a serious blood pressure condition. 

Braxton-Hicks contractions

Braxton-Hicks contractions can also cause confusion at this time, and if you’re not familiar with these, it can be easy to believe that labor has started early. Braxton-Hicks contractions are when the uterus muscle contracts and relaxes. They occur in preparation for labor but are different from labor contractions as they do not open or dilate the cervix. 

Compared to labor, Braxton-Hicks contractions will be irregular, typically stay concentrated in the uterine area, and may go away after rest, rehydration, or changing position [4]. Labor contractions, on the other hand, increase in frequency and duration, and get stronger and more painful. However, these contractions may feel different for each individual. Some compare Braxton-Hicks contractions to menstrual cramps or a feeling of tightening in areas, whereas others find them more painful [4]. 

Braxton-Hicks contractions start as early as 6 weeks gestation, but are usually not felt until the second or third trimester [4], and are a natural part of your body preparing for labor. If you have any concerns or questions surrounding contractions you may be experiencing, always discuss these with your healthcare provider.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins found in your anus or rectum [5]. Anyone can get hemorrhoids, but it is particularly common in pregnant women. Your womb and placenta are growing, putting more pressure on your pelvic area. Your blood volume has also increased, adding more strain to your veins [5]. Constipation, also common in pregnancy, contributes to pressure on the rectum and anus, too.

Symptoms of hemorrhoids include pain while passing a stool, pain or itching in the anus, a lump hanging outside the anus, and blood in your stool [6]. Hemorrhoids are rarely a cause for concern and usually clear up after birth. Eating more fiber-rich foods, increasing fluid intake, and gentle movement can ease symptoms [6]. However, you should always check with your healthcare provider if you suspect you have blood in your stool. 

Vaginal discharge

As you near the end of your pregnancy, it is common to experience an increase in vaginal discharge. Normal vaginal discharge is usually thin, clear, or milky white, with no unpleasant smells. 

There are types of discharge that could be an indicator your body is getting ready for birth, often referred to as “shows”. If you notice clear discharge with streaks of pink in it, this could be your mucus plug — the build-up of mucus in your cervix during pregnancy [7]. Similarly, if you experience a sudden rush of watery discharge, this could be your water breaking. This is when the amniotic sac breaks and releases the amniotic fluid [8].

Contact your health provider if you experience vaginal bleeding, discharge that is green or smelly, or experience any “shows” before 36 weeks, such as losing your mucus plug or your water breaking.

Amniotic fluid

Amniotic fluid is the water-like substance that surrounds your baby in the uterus. It begins to form in the first few weeks of pregnancy and is created by your baby through their urine and lung secretions [9]. Amniotic fluid is an important part of your baby’s growth, helping their lungs, digestive system, and muscles develop, maintaining a temperature-controlled environment, and protecting your baby from pressure or injury.  

Between 34 and 36 weeks, your amniotic fluid is reaching its peak at just under one liter. This water-like substance will soon start to decrease slightly as your due date approaches, and your body will reabsorb the fluid [10]. This leaves more room for your baby to grow. Your belly will still grow, too, but at a slower rate than before, as your baby starts filling in the space around them.

Your baby’s development at 34 weeks

At 34 weeks, you’ve been pregnant now for eight months. You might feel a mix of things at this late stage of your pregnancy, excitement, apprehension, frustration, or contentment. All feelings are valid! Meanwhile, your baby is getting ready to meet you. Their fingernails have fully grown and their limbs are filling out with fat. Your baby’s skin is also preparing for the outside world, by thickening its vernix caseosa. This is a whitish layer that protects your baby’s skin during the third trimester by providing temperature regulation, immunity, and a water barrier [11]. 

Your baby is now around 17.8 inches (45 cm) and weighs approximately 5.2 lb (2400g) [13] — that is about the size of a pineapple!

Are babies fully developed at 34 weeks?

Your baby now looks like a newborn baby — but they are still small, and many of their organs, especially the lungs, still need a little time to get ready for birth. Your baby is also still growing toenails, strengthening their skin, finishing the development of their ears, and putting on fat.

If you do happen to give birth at around 34 weeks, your baby may need a little extra care from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), to help them transition from life in the womb to the new, outside world.

Tips for You at Week 34 of Pregnancy

Keep hydrated

Drinking water is always important, but particularly at this stage of your pregnancy. By keeping hydrated, you can help reduce constipation and Braxton-Hicks contractions [3]. Some herbal teas are safe to consume during pregnancy and can help with your hydration. Read our guide on pregnancy-safe teas to learn more. 

Prioritize rest

Between pelvic pain, frequent urination, and general discomfort, week 34 of pregnancy can often bring interrupted sleep. This is entirely normal, but be kind to yourself and rest as much as you can. Take a warm bath before bed to ease aches and pains, and help you doze off. Naps are encouraged at this time!

Stay gently active

When you are not resting, try keeping yourself gently active throughout week 34. This can help reduce constipation, pelvic pain, and discomfort [14]. Choose low-impact options such as prenatal yoga, water walking, or stretching. Pelvic floor exercises are an excellent way to keep active while focussing on a specific area of discomfort and to prepare for birth and postpartum. 

Play sounds for your baby

Not only can your baby recognize your voice and other sounds, but sounds they process now can be recognized after birth [12]. Processing of sounds in the womb can even help with the development of their hearing [15]. Speak to your baby on a regular basis to help them recognize your voice, or play your favorite lullabies or music. Enjoy witnessing your baby’s reactions through kicks or movement.

Mixed emotions are normal

It is entirely normal to feel mixed feelings in your third trimester. As you become more uncomfortable, you may find yourself feeling bored and tired of pregnancy. On the other hand, you may feel sad that it is coming to an end. However you are feeling, remember these emotions are a common part of the pregnancy journey. 

If, on the other hand, you are feeling extremely sad, anxious, or hopeless, you may be suffering from perinatal depression, so it is important that you seek help [16].

Be aware of preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a serious high blood pressure disorder that can appear during pregnancy [17]. It often develops nearer the end of pregnancy but can happen from 20 weeks onward. The most common symptoms include a new onset headache, vision impairment, shortness of breath, and swelling. If you are concerned about preeclampsia, speak to your healthcare provider, and always take emergency action if you start experiencing these symptoms.

Preparing for labor and postpartum care

With only one month and a half left of pregnancy, now is the perfect time to start preparing for the big day. If you haven’t already, you could start putting together your hospital bag, buying a few diapers, or preparing the baby’s room. These tasks will help you feel prepared for birth and reduce stress. It can also take your mind off of any aches and pains, keeping you mentally and physically active. 

Following your pregnancy with Natural Cycles

Thanks for reading up on week 34 of pregnancy! At Natural Cycles we’re dedicated to supporting you throughout your fertility journey. For more insights into symptoms and baby development throughout your pregnancy, try NC° Follow Pregnancy. Access week-by-week updates on your growing baby, track symptoms you are experiencing, and gain insights into what to expect during this final trimester. After birth, you can switch to NC° Postpartum to help you navigate postpartum life.