Your baby

Your little one measures around 45cm now and may be lying head down already. He or she will be making lots of little movements but you won't feel so many big ones - there's just no room for lots of somersaults any more.

If your baby were born this week, they would be able to process food on their own as the digestive enzymes in their tummy are now working.

Your baby’s memory is developing for familiar sounds – so make sure you and your partner keep talking to your little one.

You

You may notice your feet and ankles are swollen, especially towards the end of the day. If your hands and face start to look puffy too, talk to your doctor or midwife –it could be a sign of pre-eclampsia.

If you’re still working and feeling overwhelmingly tired, it’s only natural. Speak to your employer about changing your hours so that commuting is less busy, or if your work allows it – try working from home.

34 weeks pregnant discharge looking clear or white is normal. If it becomes thicker or yellowish, it’s important to tell your midwife or GP as you may have thrush.

What to think about

It’s time to start practising those pain-relieving tips and relaxation exercises that you have learnt in your antenatal classes.

37 weeks is considered full term for twins, so if you’re expecting more than one baby they could arrive any time now! Make sure your hospital bag is ready to go, even if you’re having a home birth.

You might want to try a perineal massage to reduce the chance of having an episiotomy or a tear. Ask your midwife how to do this.

During weeks 34-37, some hospitals screen for GBS (group B streptococcus). Around up to 30 per cent of pregnant women carry the bacteria that can affect newborns. If positive, antibiotics are prescribed during labour and will reduce the risk to the baby.

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