This illustration by Sebastian Kaulitzki, shows your baby's position in the womb. The weight of baby’s brain grows by a third during the last 4 to 5 weeks before full term.

Week 35

Mum

Biologically, the last months of pregnancy are for slowing down. Ironically though, they are also full of activity as you’re nesting. You may unexpectedly de-junk your bathroom cabinet or paint the garage – projects not remotely connected with the baby.

The following list should help you keep your focus:

  • Cover your side of the bed with a plastic mattress protector (in case your waters break).
  • Plan the quickest route to the hospital, in traffic and off-peak.
  • Do a trial run, taking note where to park and which door to use.
  • Keep enough petrol in the car to get you to the hospital.
  • Keep the mobile phone battery charged.
  • Write down phone numbers for alternative transport: Taxi, friends, neighbours.
  • Organise household help. Perhaps people could give you an hour of vacuuming instead of a pair of booties? Here are some great ways to help a new mum. 
  • Get plenty of rest. This is your last chance to sleep through the night.

Dad

She may be suffering from insomnia. If you can afford it, stay up with her to keep her company. Rub her back or her feet, hold her, talk to her. If you have to go to work the next morning, at least let her know you’d be doing all that if you could.

Baby

You are the size of a crown pumpkin. Your kidneys are ready and you’re almost totally developed. You’ll spend the rest of your time in here getting bigger, which seems almost impossible given how snug it feels already. You can’t move around anymore, but you still kick to let Mum know you’re fine. If you haven’t already, you’ll soon (hopefully) start to roll around to position your head facing downwards towards mum’s cervix. 

Things to keep in mind 

  • Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing new, or worsening headaches and ensure that you are getting plenty of rest (you won’t have this luxury soon)
  • Childbirth often looks nothing like what you see on TV or in the movies, starting with when the water breaks. Review the signs of labour, so that you know exactly what to expect 
  • Make your bedroom space more comfortable – get lots of cushy pillows, ensure there is a clear path to your bathroom, and to where your baby will sleep, and keep everything you might need in the middle of the night when your baby wakes up nearby
  • Practise your Kegel exercises and your perineal massage 

Photos in the bumpandbaby.co.nz/week-by-week/ are by Lenart Nilsson. Lenart's series was bought to fame when his photo, considered the greatest photo of the 20th century, appeared on the cover of Life magazine in 1965. “Everyone interprets images differently, depending on their social, cultural and religious background. In the digital era, I believe it is more important than ever to go back and take a look inside ourselves. What better way of doing that than with these photos?” ~ Jane Stene, art gallery director and curator of Lenart's definitive black and white series, told the The Guardian in 2019. It is Lenart Nilsson's wish that his images are never used for political debate about pro-life.

WELCOME

Lernart Nilsson's foetus series featured in our week by week, is considered the greatest photography of the 20th Century. You may be surprised at the incredible detail seen in his photos.

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