36th Week of Pregnancy

Your Changing Body When You're 36 Weeks Pregnant

Your body continues to make both physical and mental preparations for the big day that's fast approaching. Here's what you can expect at your 36th week of pregnancy:

Feel the Need to Nest?

• If you feel an unusual surge of energy and a compelling need to clean, decorate, or organize, you might be experiencing what's called nesting.
  • Nesting can be useful in moderation if it helps to occupy your mind during the wait for your baby to arrive.
  • Accomplishing tasks now can give you more time after your baby is home. It's a good time to launder 0-3 month clothes and place them in drawers, prepare your baby’s crib, and set up the diaper pail.
  • Just try not to overdo it and wear yourself out.
• You might continue to notice several of the typical late-pregnancy symptoms.
• Your cervix might start to dilate in the weeks, days, or hours before the birth of your baby. Every woman and even every pregnancy is different.
• Joints and tissues in your body continue to soften and loosen as your body prepares for your baby's birth. This might be especially significant in your pelvic area.
• You might continue to feel hip pain on one side or lower-back pain.
• Braxton-Hicks contractions might become more frequent as you edge closer to your due date. Remember, these practical contractions play an important role in helping your body rehearse for childbirth.
• You might notice more practice contractions after physical activity or if you are not getting enough fluids.