Your baby this week
Your baby is moving down closer to the exit! The nervous system and lungs are maturing more each day. The vernix coating is getting thicker. Your baby's eyes are blue right now (most babies' are at this point!) — the final eye color will develop after birth. The fingernails might be long enough to need trimming when your baby is born. Your baby is getting ready for the day you meet.
Your body this week
Your baby may 'drop' lower into your pelvis (called lightening). This eases breathing but increases pelvic pressure and bladder urgency. You may breathe easier but need the bathroom even more. Fatigue is significant. Braxton Hicks are more frequent and may feel stronger. Your cervix may begin to soften in preparation for labour. You're in the home stretch!
Common symptoms this week
Every pregnancy is different — you may notice some of these, all of them, or none at all. None of this is a checklist to worry over.
- Baby dropping lower (lightening)
- Easier breathing
- Pelvic pressure and bladder urgency
- Significant fatigue
- Stronger Braxton Hicks
This week’s checklist
- Biweekly prenatal visits continue — don't skip any
- Discuss with your doctor: when to go to the hospital
- Prepare older children (if any) for the new baby
- Wash baby clothes and blankets in gentle detergent
- Take a breastfeeding class if you plan to nurse
What’s normal this week
Most of what you’re feeling is your body doing exactly what it should — the everyday symptoms don’t need a call. The signs below are the rare exceptions: noticing one doesn’t mean something’s wrong, just that it’s worth a quick check.
When to call your doctor
- Regular contractions before 37 weeks (preterm labour)
- Water breaking — fluid gushing or steady trickle
- Severe pelvic pain preventing walking
This guide offers general information for a typical pregnancy and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always follow your doctor or midwife’s guidance for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How big is my baby at 34 weeks pregnant?
At 34 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe.
What are common symptoms at 34 weeks pregnant?
Common symptoms around 34 weeks pregnant include baby dropping lower (lightening), easier breathing, pelvic pressure and bladder urgency, significant fatigue, stronger Braxton Hicks. Every pregnancy is different — you may notice some of these, all of them, or none at all.
What is developing at 34 weeks pregnant?
Your baby is moving down closer to the exit! The nervous system and lungs are maturing more each day.
When should I call my doctor at 34 weeks pregnant?
Call your doctor at 34 weeks if you notice regular contractions before 37 weeks (preterm labour), water breaking — fluid gushing or steady trickle, severe pelvic pain preventing walking.
Last updated June 2026
References
Ovyacare’s guidance is written in-house and aligned with leading medical authorities: