Week 36: Final Preparations
Baby is about the size of Romaine lettuce (474mm)
If baby drops ('lightening'), the head engages in the pelvis. Lanugo and vernix are shedding into meconium. GBS screening in the US.
'Lightening' makes breathing easier but walking harder. Cervix may dilate or efface. Nesting may be intense.
What is important now
Complete GBS screening (US). Prepare the home. Review birth plan. In France, complete anesthesia consultation.
Common symptoms
Wellness this week.
Nutrition
Energy for labor preparation
- Complex carbs for energy stores
- Continue balanced nutrition
- Hydration critical
Exercise
Movement
Light movement and stretching
Sleep
As much as possible—bank sleep
Position: Left side with full support
· Sleep whenever possible
· Prepare for sleep deprivation ahead
Mental wellness
Mindfulness
Channel nesting energy productively but don't exhaust yourself.
“Your baby is almost ready. So are you.”
Your timeline.
Week 6
30 weeks ago- routine
Checkpoint 1 — Mutterpass may be issued upon heartbeat confirmation
Week 19
17 weeks ago- routineWeeks 19–22
Checkpoint 2 — Screening Ultrasound
Choice between a basic biometric scan or detailed organ scan. Measures head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and checks placental position.
GoalAssess fetal anatomy and growth, check for structural abnormalities, and verify placental location.
Week 28
8 weeks ago- routine
Checkpoint 1 — GDM screening
- routine
Checkpoint 2 — Rhogam if Rh-negative
Week 29
7 weeks ago- routineWeeks 29–32
Checkpoint 3 — Screening Ultrasound
Third and final routine ultrasound. Assesses fetal growth, position (cephalic/breech), amniotic fluid volume, and placental function.
GoalConfirm appropriate growth trajectory and baby's position for delivery planning.
Week 35
Last week- self pay igelWeeks 35–37
Checkpoint 1 — GBS Testing — Self-pay/IGeL
Rectovaginal swab to screen for Group B Streptococcus colonization. If positive, IV antibiotics are given during labor to prevent neonatal infection.
GoalIdentify GBS carriers to enable prophylactic treatment during delivery.
Week 36
This week- self pay
Checkpoint 1 — GBS Screening available
Safety: GBS positive status means antibiotics during labor. It's common and manageable.
Your journey, your rhythm.
Track your pregnancy week by week with gentle, personalized guidance.