At 34 weeks, the bones in baby's skull are still soft and flexible, with gaps between them still open. This is normal: the flexibility helps during birth. Bleeding, fluid leaking, strong pain, regular contractions, or fewer movements need prompt contact with your provider.
34 weeks pregnant is about 8 months. You are in month 8 of pregnancy and the third trimester.
Your baby at 34 weeks
Baby is about the size of a butternut squash
34 weeks: why the skull stays soft
This week, baby's skull bones are still not fully joined. Soft spots and sutures (the gaps between bones) remain, which lets the head compress a little and change shape during birth.
What usually happens at 34 weeks
- The skull sutures and soft spots remain flexible.
- That flexibility can help the head pass through the birth canal.
- The brain keeps growing quickly.
- The head may keep a slightly changed shape for a few days after birth, then it usually rounds out.
- Baby keeps gaining weight and getting ready for birth.
The butternut squash comparison is a simple way to picture baby's size. This week, both size and movement are useful signs of well-being, so ask your provider what to track at your visits.
Your body at 34 weeks
Normal or SPD?
Why does the pubic bone hurt?
By week 34, your baby is growing fast, weighing about 2.1 kg (4.6 lbs), and the weight on your pelvis is increasing. Your body makes the hormone relaxin, which makes the ligaments in your pelvis more flexible so it can open up for birth. This is a common, usually normal change, but it can cause discomfort.
SPD or regular discomfort?
Pelvic girdle pain is common in pregnancy. A mild, dull ache when you walk or change positions is often part of this. However, more severe pain from the pubic joint, called symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), needs a provider's evaluation.
Signs that may point to SPD
- Sharp or shooting pain in the pubic area that spreads to the thighs or groin.
- Pain that gets worse when you spread your legs, climb stairs, or turn over in bed.
- Clicking or popping felt or heard in the pelvis during movement.
- Trouble lifting one straight leg while lying on your back.
How to ease the discomfort
Many providers suggest these simple ways to support your pelvis and reduce daily strain:
- Try a maternity support belt. Ask your provider or a physical therapist how to fit and wear it.
- Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees.
- Get dressed while sitting down, such as putting on pants or shoes, so you don't have to balance on one leg.
- Avoid positions that put extra strain on one side, such as sitting with your legs crossed or standing with all your weight on one leg.
- Ask about physical therapy. A pelvic floor or prenatal physical therapist can teach safe movements and exercises.
Common symptoms at 34 weeks
Mild aching in the front of the pelvis is common as ligaments loosen for birth. Gentle stretching, a pillow between your knees in bed, and avoiding long periods of standing can help.
Your growing baby presses on your stomach, which can bring burning up into your chest. Smaller meals, staying upright after eating, and limiting spicy or fatty foods often ease it.
As baby grows, your lungs have less room to expand, so you may feel winded with activity. Slowing down and taking breaks is usually enough, but tell your provider if breathlessness comes on suddenly or at rest.
Extra fluid in your body can cause puffiness, especially by evening. Raising your feet and staying hydrated may help, and sudden swelling in your face or hands should be reported to your provider.
Baby's head presses on your bladder, so you may need to pee often. Emptying your bladder fully when you can and drinking fluids earlier in the day may make nights easier.
Your belly may feel firm or tight now and then, without steady pain. These practice contractions are common, but regular, painful tightening should be checked by your provider.
Your week 34 checklist
Tests and appointments
- Routine prenatal visit. At this stage, visits are often every two to three weeks, and may include blood pressure, weight, urine checks, and measuring your belly to track baby's growth.
Questions about week 34
How many months is 34 weeks pregnant?
34 weeks pregnant is about 8 months. You are in month 8 of pregnancy and the third trimester.
What trimester is 34 weeks?
Week 34 is in the third trimester. The first trimester runs through week 13, the second from week 14 to 27 and the third from week 28 until birth.
What is happening with the baby at 34 weeks?
At 34 weeks, the bones in baby's skull are still soft and flexible, with gaps between them still open. This is normal: the flexibility helps during birth. Bleeding, fluid leaking, strong pain, regular contractions, or fewer movements need prompt contact with your provider.
Is pubic bone pain normal at 34 weeks?
Mild aching is common because pregnancy hormones loosen your pelvic joints. Sharp pain, pain that makes walking hard, or a clicking feeling should be checked by your provider, since it may be symphysis pubis dysfunction.
When should I pack my hospital bag?
Many people pack their bag between 34 and 36 weeks so it is ready early. Your provider can tell you what to expect, since babies can arrive sooner than expected.
Can my baby still turn head down at 34 weeks?
Many babies move into a head-down position in the weeks before birth, but some do not until labor begins. Your provider can check baby's position during routine visits.
Safe or not?
Guides for this stage
Learn more
- NIH: Pregnancy (NICHD)
- CDC: Pregnancy
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