Week 36 of Pregnancy

At 36 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a honeydew melon, measuring around 47 centimeters from head to toe and weighing approximately 6 pounds. This week marks a major transition as your baby begins moving into position for birth. Most babies will turn head-down by now, settling into the pelvis in what doctors call "engagement" or "lightening." Your baby's lungs are working overtime, producing surfactant, that crucial substance that will help those tiny air sacs inflate properly when they take their first breath. The digestive system is fully developed and ready to process breast milk or formula. Your baby's skull bones remain soft and flexible, designed to compress slightly during their journey through the birth canal. Brain development continues at an incredible pace, with neural connections forming rapidly in these final weeks.

This week marks the start of weekly prenatal visits, so get comfortable with your healthcare team. Have your hospital bag fully packed and sitting by the door. Many experienced moms recommend keeping a second bag in the car. Practice timing contractions using the 5-1-1 rule: contractions five minutes apart, lasting one minute, for one full hour. Stock your freezer with easy meals now because you will thank yourself later. If you are feeling the nesting urge, channel it productively but do not overdo it. Many moms report suddenly needing to organize every closet at 2 AM, but sleep matters more right now. Keep hydrated to reduce those painful Braxton Hicks, and try a warm bath for pelvic discomfort. Gentle walks can help baby descend further if they have not dropped yet.