Week 34 of Pregnancy: What to Expect and How to Feel Better Naturally

By now, you’ve reached week thirty-four of your pregnancy journey — and let’s just take a moment to say: you’re doing an amazing job. Every week brings you closer to meeting your baby, and this particular week is another big milestone.

At this stage, your baby is growing rapidly. By now, most babies weigh somewhere between 2 to 2.2 kilograms (around 4.5 to 5 pounds) and measure about 16 to 17 inches long — roughly the size of a cantaloupe. Inside your womb, your little one is getting stronger, rounder, and more ready for the world with each passing day.

If you’re carrying a baby boy, this week holds special importance. His testicles are gradually descending into the scrotum — a part of the development that typically happens around this time. His lungs are also maturing further, preparing for that big first breath when he enters the world.

What You Might Be Feeling – And Why It’s Completely Normal

Many mothers at this stage begin to feel more intense physical discomforts — and if you’re one of them, please know you’re not alone. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Pelvic pressure: As your baby grows and drops lower into your pelvis, you might feel heaviness or even sharp pains in your pubic area. It can feel like your body is stretching in ways you didn’t know it could.
Round ligament pain: This is a common complaint, especially when you stand up, roll over, or even take a step. The round ligaments are working overtime to support your expanding uterus.
Shortness of breath: Your growing uterus is pushing against your diaphragm, which can make it harder to take deep breaths. This can be uncomfortable, especially when you’re lying down.
Swollen hands and feet: Mild swelling, especially in the evenings or after standing for long periods, is normal at this point. Your body is retaining more fluid now as it prepares for labor.

These symptoms may feel overwhelming some days, but they are all signs that your body is doing exactly what it was made to do — nurture life.

Why These Discomforts Happen

Most of the discomforts in the third trimester are connected to a natural rise in pregnancy hormones. These hormones help prepare your body for childbirth — loosening joints, relaxing muscles, and helping tissues become more flexible.

It might not feel like a blessing when you’re waddling across the room or trying to find a comfortable sleeping position for the tenth time in one night. But it really is your body’s way of getting ready for the miracle that’s just around the corner.

And here’s the good news: most of these discomforts will ease almost immediately after delivery. The swelling, the breathlessness, the pelvic pressure — all of it tends to calm down once your baby arrives.

Gentle Tips to Soothe Your Body

While you can’t stop your body from changing, there are simple ways to ease the discomfort:

Stay lightly active. Short walks or light stretching can help with circulation and reduce swelling.
Change positions often. Don’t stand or sit in one position for too long. Gently moving your body can relieve pressure.
Elevate your feet. Especially if you notice swelling. A few pillows under your legs while lying down can help.
Drink plenty of water. It might sound strange, but staying hydrated can actually help reduce fluid retention.
Listen to your body. If you need rest, take it. This isn’t the time to push through pain.

You’re So Close – And You’re Stronger Than You Think

Week 34 is a time of mixed emotions. You may be excited, nervous, tired, hopeful — sometimes all in the same hour. That’s completely normal. Growing a human isn’t easy, and you’ve been doing it with incredible strength.

If you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed, try to take it one day at a time. You’re not expected to have it all together. You’re just expected to show up, do your best, and trust that your body and your baby are working together beautifully.

The finish line is just a few weeks away — and so is that first magical moment when you’ll hold your baby in your arms.

Remember this: You’ve made it to week 34. That means you’ve already come so far — and the best part of your journey is just around the corner. Keep going, mama. You’re not alone, and you’re doing beautifully.