34 weeks pregnant
Third trimester about 7 months
At 34 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe.
Baby this week
About 45cm. The baby's central nervous system and lungs are maturing rapidly. Babies born at 34 weeks typically do very well. The vernix coating is thickening.
Did you know? Babies born at 34 weeks are considered 'late preterm' and while they may need some NICU time, the vast majority survive and thrive without long-term complications.
What she may be feeling
- Pelvic pressure — baby may be dropping
- Braxton Hicks more frequent
- Backache
- Swelling
- Heartburn may ease if baby drops
- Fatigue
- Nesting instinct possible
- Frequent urination
Tips for her this week
- From now on, be ready — some babies arrive before their due date.
- You may experience 'lightning' as the baby drops lower into the pelvis, making breathing easier.
- Braxton Hicks may become more regular and intense — time them to know the difference from real labor.
- Rest as much as possible — your body is finalizing its preparation.
For partners
- The hospital bag must be complete and ready to go from this point forward.
- Know the route to the hospital and have a backup — labor doesn't follow a schedule.
- Make sure your phone is charged at all times and you're reachable during work hours.
- Have a conversation about what happens if labor starts when you're not home.
Partner to-do list
- Confirm hospital bag is completely packed
- Know the route to hospital and a backup route
- Keep your phone charged and be reachable
- Talk through the 'labor starts when I'm not home' scenario
This week together
- Ensure hospital bag is packed and by the door
- Review labor signs together
- Confirm your birth support person is on standby
- Finalize postpartum plan
When to call your doctor or midwife
Contact your care provider right away, or call emergency services, if she has:
- Regular painful contractions — time them
- Leaking fluid
- Decrease in fetal movement
- Signs of preeclampsia
- Heavy bleeding
Trusted guidance: NHS: Pregnancy · NHS: Pregnancy complications · ACOG: Pregnancy · Pregnancy Info: Your pregnancy
Common questions
How big is the baby at 34 weeks?
At 34 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe. About 45cm.
How many months is 34 weeks pregnant?
34 weeks pregnant is about 7 months, in the third trimester.
What can partners do at 34 weeks?
The hospital bag must be complete and ready to go from this point forward. Know the route to the hospital and have a backup — labor doesn't follow a schedule.