36 weeks pregnant
Third trimester about 8 months
At 36 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a romaine lettuce.
Baby this week
About 47cm. The baby is considered full term next week. Most organ systems are ready for life outside the womb. The baby is in the head-down position for most pregnancies.
Did you know? The baby's lungs produce enough surfactant by week 36 that breathing after birth is typically not an issue — one of the last major developmental milestones before delivery.
What she may be feeling
- Intense pelvic pressure
- Lightning crotch
- Braxton Hicks daily
- Nesting
- Backache
- Swelling
- Fatigue
- Difficulty moving
Tips for her this week
- Weekly prenatal appointments start now.
- You may feel the baby 'drop' (engage into the pelvis) — breathing becomes easier but pelvic pressure increases.
- Braxton Hicks may be almost daily now — time contractions to know if they're the real thing.
- The finish line is close. You've done something remarkable.
For partners
- Appointments are now weekly — try to attend as many as possible.
- She is likely very uncomfortable, tired, and ready. Your energy and optimism matter more than ever.
- Make sure everything on the newborn preparation list is done.
- Know all the signs of labor by heart: water breaking, bloody show, regular contractions.
Partner to-do list
- Know the signs of labor by heart — and have the number for your provider saved
- Be available and reachable at all times from here on
- Double-check the hospital bag
- Be her emotional anchor — she needs calm, steady energy
This week together
- Attend weekly prenatal appointments
- Know labor signs and when to call the provider
- Confirm hospital route and parking
- Do a final check of the nursery and baby gear
When to call your doctor or midwife
Contact your care provider right away, or call emergency services, if she has:
- Regular contractions 5 minutes apart for 1 hour
- Leaking fluid
- Heavy bleeding
- Decreased fetal movement
- Signs of preeclampsia
Trusted guidance: NHS: Pregnancy · NHS: Pregnancy complications · ACOG: Pregnancy · Pregnancy Info: Your pregnancy
Common questions
How big is the baby at 36 weeks?
At 36 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a romaine lettuce. About 47cm.
How many months is 36 weeks pregnant?
36 weeks pregnant is about 8 months, in the third trimester.
What can partners do at 36 weeks?
Appointments are now weekly — try to attend as many as possible. She is likely very uncomfortable, tired, and ready. Your energy and optimism matter more than ever.