Week 35: Almost newborn

Your baby’s kidneys are fully developed and their liver is processing waste — they’re nearly ready for the outside world, and looking the part too, as the last of the lanugo disappears. About the size of a honeydew melon, they’re running out of room, so kicks may start to feel more like rolls and pushes.

You might feel the baby “drop” lower (engagement), which can ease your breathing, while swelling in your feet and ankles often peaks around now. It’s also normal to feel restless or emotional as the finish line comes into view.

Your GBS swab is usually done this week or next. At home, it’s a good time to get the basics ready: a safe sleep space, nappies, and a few onesies within reach.

You’re into the home straight now, and it’s normal for these last weeks to feel long. Have your hospital bag packed, your maternity ward’s number saved, and your plan for getting there sorted. Keep paying attention to your baby’s movements — they shouldn’t slow down at the end (that’s a myth), so any change from their normal pattern is always worth a prompt call. And rest as much as you can; there’s no prize for pushing through exhaustion now.

Emotionally, these final weeks are a real mix — excitement, impatience, nerves, and sometimes a wobble at how close it all is. That’s completely normal. Lean on your support people, do small nice things for yourself, and try to rest rather than fill every moment. Your body is doing the last of its enormous work, and soon you’ll meet the little person behind all those kicks.

On safe sleep — Red Nose Australia recommends your baby always sleeps on their back, in their own safe sleep space, in the same room as you for the first 6 to 12 months. Worth setting up now while you still have a bit of energy.