Preparing for 35 Weeks Pregnant & Breastfeeding

BABY DEVELOPMENT

Your baby’s lungs are ready for that first big breath in the outside world – and of course for that first loud cry that will spring those lungs into action! These small but powerful lungs now have enough fatty lining to ensure that they won’t collapse even when the air moves out of them. Your little one has been practicing breathing in and out with amniotic fluid, the fluid that’s been surrounding and supporting your baby all throughout your pregnancy. This fluid is contained in what’s called the amniotic sac, and it’s this sac that will rupture and leak out – hence the term “my water broke” – when your baby’s ready to make an appearance. That’s your sign to grab your maternity bag and head to the hospital!

YOUR BODY

Wondering why you seem to be breathing more freely and enjoying better digestion? It’s simple: your baby is doing what needs to be done! The smart little darling has moved head downwards into your pelvis. You may have noticed a slight pain in your abdomen beforehand. That would have been contractions pressing your uterus downwards, giving your lungs and stomach a bit more space. In the last few weeks of your pregnancy, you will definitely have the feeling that your body is beginning to prepare for your sweet love’s birth. It only means one thing – you and your baby are almost there!

NUTRITION

Omega-3s are called "essential fatty acids” for a reason. They’re extremely vital to brain growth and overall development, but they’re not naturally produced by the body – we can only get them from the food we eat. That’s why to ensure your baby’s healthy development, you have to include Omega-3 sources in your daily diet. You will find these magical fatty acids in flaxseed and canola oils, walnuts and walnut oil, wheat germ, and fatty fishes such as salmon, tuna, and sardines. Use the oils for your salad dressing, and try to eat a few servings of fatty fish each week.

TIPS

As your pregnancy winds down, you may start to wonder if you’re actually capable of breastfeeding. Try to relax and keep in mind that nursing a baby is the most natural thing in the world. Your little darling already knows exactly what to do, having practiced sucking while still in the womb. And if you ever have difficulty getting it started, there’s loads of help around. Just ask other moms or even a breastfeeding support group.

A real miracle of nature, mother’s milk is the best thing you can give your child. From around week two, babies start to put on about 30g a day just from drinking breast milk alone. What‘s more, your milk automatically adjusts to your baby’s needs. At the start of feeding, the milk is thin and watery so as to quench baby’s thirst. Then it gets thicker and richer to satisfy your baby’s hunger! If your child develops a bigger appetite, your body will adjust within two days and produce even more milk. Amazing, right?

If, however, medical reasons prevent you from breastfeeding, there’s no need to worry or beat yourself up over it. Consult with your doctor to discuss you and your baby’s best nutrition options.

Up next is Week 36! Click here to read all about it.