The Eight Month of Your Pregnancy

The Final Countdown Begins!

“By Week 35, your baby’s kidneys and liver are fully functioning, and their nervous system is almost ready for the outside world.” – NHS

Welcome to Month 8 of pregnancy - you’re nearly there! With just weeks left to go, your baby is growing fast, your body is getting ready for birth, and your to-do list might feel never-ending. This month is all about final preparations, resting when you can, and soaking in the last stretch of your pregnancy journey.

Expect more rolls than kicks, stronger Braxton Hicks, and maybe even a baby dropping lower into your pelvis. Ready or not, you’re almost ready to meet your little one!

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Week 32: Practice Makes Perfect

Your baby, now the size of a kale, is swallowing, digesting, and breathing amniotic fluid - practicing all the skills they’ll need for life outside. They're gaining around 200–250 grams a week and may be turning head-down if they haven’t already.

Do you feel that you're now waking more frequently during the night? It could be because of the frequent toilet trips or insomnia or the fact that you cannot find a comfortable position. Do you have any strategies that help? Note them down - it could be listening to calming music or meditation to fall back to sleep, or use pillows to support your body during the night or try some stretching or rolling exercises during the day and/ or in the evening before you go to bed.

Partner Tip: Time to review relaxation techniques and help with the daily load. A quiet evening foot massage could go a long way!

Week 33: Nesting Mode Activated

At about the size of a pineapple, your baby is getting snug for the big day. Their immune system and nervous system are nearly ready, and they’re receiving more antibodies from you.

You might be getting into 'nesting mode' which is normal but please don't think that this is a sign that the baby is coming in the following days (this is a myth!).My tip is to take it easy and try and do it with your partner, family or friends who can help you with some of the things you might need to do before the arrival of your baby.

Partner Tip:

Practice labour techniques like massage, counterpressure, and breathing together. It’s bonding and helpful!

Week 34: Final Prep for Labour

Your baby’s lungs are almost fully developed, and they’re becoming chubbier by the day. You may feel their nails poking on the inside soon - yes, really, some pregnant people do feel them!

Around this time of your pregnancy you might feel or notice your belly "dropping" lower which means that your baby is taking the right position. For first-time mums this might happen weeks before labour begins.

Partner Tip: Know your hospital route, check your bag, and go over the birth plan together. No such thing as being “too ready.”

Week 35: Almost There!

Your baby is now the size of a cantaloupe and getting into position. Their organs are functioning, and they're almost full term. Movement might feel more like stretches or nudges due to limited space.

During this week watch out for:

• Increased Braxton Hicks

• Lower belly sensation (baby dropping)

• Hip or back aches

• Swelling

Partner Tip: Offer emotional reassurance, review contraction timing apps, and make sure your bag is packed too (snacks included!).

Final Thoughts on Month 8: Trust Your Body & Your Baby

Month 8 is the ultimate mix of excitement, nerves, and aching feet. But you’re so close now. Let yourself slow down, breathe, and take stock of everything you’ve done to get here. Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, you deserve support, kindness, and all the pillows.

Need Extra Support?

My virtual doors are always open and I'll be more than happy to connect with you through a FREE Discovery Call to discuss what might be best for you and your needs!

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