Nerdy Weekly Baby Size: Week 34

This week for the Nerdy Weekly Baby series!

If you’re 34 weeks pregnant, congratulations! You’re now in your third trimester, and your baby is growing rapidly. At this stage of pregnancy, your baby is the length of the sword Sting, measuring about 17.7 inches (45 cm) long and weighing around 4.7 pounds (2.1 kg). But what does this mean for you and your baby? In this post, we’ll explore the gestational size of a baby at 34 weeks, and how women are feeling during this stage of pregnancy.

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The Gestational Size of a Baby at 34 Weeks

Your baby’s limbs are now more proportionate, and their muscle tone is improving. They can also move their arms and legs more easily, and may even respond to external stimuli such as light or sound.

Overall, your baby is continuing to grow and develop at a rapid pace, and will soon be ready to meet you face to face.

How Women Are Feeling During Week 34 of Pregnancy

By week 34, most women are feeling pretty uncomfortable. The sheer size of your growing belly can make it difficult to move around, and you may experience aches and pains in your back, hips, and pelvis. You may also be feeling short of breath, as your growing baby is pushing up against your diaphragm.

Other common symptoms at this stage of pregnancy include:

Braxton Hicks contractions: These are “practice” contractions that help your body prepare for labor. They can be uncomfortable, but they’re usually not painful or regular.
Increased vaginal discharge: This is a normal part of pregnancy, but if you notice a change in color, consistency, or smell, it could be a sign of infection, so be sure to talk to your doctor.
Swelling: Your feet, ankles, and hands may be swollen at this stage of pregnancy, especially if you’re on your feet a lot. Elevating your feet and staying hydrated can help alleviate swelling.
Difficulty sleeping: As your belly grows, it can be hard to get comfortable in bed. Try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees to help support your hips and lower back.
Heartburn: As your growing baby puts pressure on your stomach, you may experience more frequent heartburn. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding spicy or greasy food