Pregnancy week 36
This week your baby is about the size of a head of romaine lettuce — around 47.4 cm and 2622 g.
Your baby this week
About as long as a head of romaine lettuce, your baby keeps gaining weight and the skin grows softer and pinker as fat builds up. The head often drops into the pelvis in readiness for birth, a stage known as engagement. The soft lanugo hair thins out, and your baby swallows amniotic fluid that helps the digestive system get ready. Your baby is very close to being fully developed, and each extra day adds more strength.
Your body this week
You may notice breathing gets a little easier if the baby's head has dropped, though pressure on your bladder and pelvis increases. It is normal to feel Braxton Hicks contractions more often and perhaps some pelvic aching. Symptoms differ from woman to woman, so reach out to your doctor if you feel regular contractions or notice your waters breaking.
Tips for this week
Learn the signs of true labor and how they differ from practice contractions so you feel reassured. Make sure the baby's car seat is ready and your hospital bag is by the door. Take time to rest and try positions that ease pelvic pressure, such as sitting on a birth ball if you have one.
Frequently asked questions
How big is the baby at week 36?+
At week 36, your baby is about the size of a head of romaine lettuce — roughly 47.4 cm and 2622 g, though every baby grows at its own pace.
Which trimester is week 36?+
Week 36 falls in the Third trimester.
How many weeks are left at week 36?+
At week 36, you have about 4 weeks to go until the typical 40-week due date.
Is week 36 normal?+
Every pregnancy is different. If you feel well and your check-ups are on track, week 36 is usually a normal part of the journey — but always reach out to your doctor or midwife with any concern.
This guide is for general information and reassurance — it isn't medical advice. Always follow your doctor or midwife for your own pregnancy.