Trimester 3
36 Weeks Pregnant
In week 36, your baby is putting on weight quickly and fine-tuning their lung and brain function. They are becoming more responsive to light and sound from the outside world as they prepare for the big transition to life outside.
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Your baby is the size of a Romaine lettuce
47 cm
Length
2.6 kg
Weight
Week 1Week 13 - End of Trimester 1Week 27Week 42
Baby's Development This Week
In week 36, your baby is putting on weight quickly and fine-tuning their lung and brain function. They are becoming more responsive to light and sound from the outside world as they prepare for the big transition to life outside.
- The baby sheds most of the lanugo (fine body hair).
- Fat continues rounding out the cheeks and body.
- The digestive system is ready to process breast milk.
- Sucking and swallowing reflexes are fully coordinated.
- The immune system continues strengthening.
- About 47.4cm — the size of a romaine lettuce.
Your Symptoms at Week 36
As you progress through week 36, you may feel more physical strain as your baby grows. Back pain and difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position are common. Keep your feet up when you can and take pride in how far you've come in this incredible process.
Pelvic pressure
Rest frequently; a birthing ball can relieve pressure. (severe)
Rest frequently; a birthing ball can relieve pressure. (severe)
Fatigue
Sleep when you can; delegate tasks. (severe)
Sleep when you can; delegate tasks. (severe)
Braxton Hicks (intensifying)
Stay hydrated; practice breathing through them. (moderate)
Stay hydrated; practice breathing through them. (moderate)
Swelling
Rest with feet elevated; compression socks. (moderate)
Rest with feet elevated; compression socks. (moderate)
Difficulty breathing
Baby may drop soon, relieving diaphragm pressure. (moderate)
Baby may drop soon, relieving diaphragm pressure. (moderate)
When to Call Your Doctor
- Regular contractions 5 minutes apart for 1 hour
- Water breaking
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Baby moving significantly less than usual
- Severe headache, vision changes, or upper abdominal pain
Week 36 Checklist
- ✓Group B Strep (GBS) test this week (essential)
- ✓Weekly prenatal visits begin (essential)
- ✓Finalize hospital bag (essential)
- ✓Install car seat if not done — get it inspected (essential)
- ✓Discuss labor induction policies with your provider (recommended)
Frequently Asked Questions
Continue Your Pregnancy Journey — Week 36
← →
Week 35 of Pregnancy
Review what happened last week with your baby's development
← →
Week 37 of Pregnancy
What's coming next week — new developments and symptoms to expect
Guide
Third Trimester Overview
Everything happening during your third trimester — symptoms, tests, and milestones
Symptom
Braxton Hicks Contractions
How to tell practice contractions from the real thing
Symptom
Swollen Feet & Ankles
Normal swelling vs. warning signs of preeclampsia
Tool
Contraction Timer
Time contractions to know when to head to the hospital
Related
Group B Strep Test
Routine test between weeks 35–37 — what a positive result means
Nutrition
Third Trimester Nutrition
Foods for energy, labor prep, and healthy final weight gain
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance about your pregnancy.