34 Weeks Pregnant

This week you may still feel the baby move a lot. The Braxton Hicks contractions will become more regular. Your stomach may feel rock hard and you may experience some discomfort as your uterus contracts and releases.

Stages of Labor

The first stage of labor is signaled by contractions that are more frequent, more intense and that starts in your lower back and spread around to your abdomen until you are fully dilated. The second stage of labor is from the time you are fully dilated and start pushing to the time your baby is actually delivered. The third stage takes place while you get to know your little one. This is the time when your will push to deliver the placenta and proceed to be cleaned up.

Baby’s Progress

This week the fetus will shed the lanugo as it builds a thicker layer of vernix, making it easier for it to maneuver through the birthing canal. An amniocentesis test can be done to check the maturity of the lungs. The taste buds are present and it will come to like the flavors you expose it to. So it may not be the best time to try out the new Mexican restaurant. Keep making healthy choices for your baby. The fetus measures 5 lbs and 12.8 inches this week.

Birthing Plan

If you haven’t done so already, talk to your doctor and your partner about your birthing plan. It is also a good time to put it in writing for the doctor and hospital staff to reference.

Support Partner

Allow your support partner to attend birthing classes with you so he is prepared to help you throughout the delivery process. He should be prepared to hold you in different positions, provide massages and help you to relax during labor.