Your Pregnancy at Week 36

At week 36, you likely still have another four weeks until delivery, especially if this is your first pregnancy. However, the term "full-term" refers to babies born between week 37 and week 42 of pregnancy. Your baby could arrive as early as next week and still be considered full-term!

You should be seeing your healthcare provider every week at this stage. Your healthcare provider—whether that’s your OB-GYN, family doctor, or midwife—may screen you for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) between weeks 35 and 37. Group B Strep is the most common cause of serious infections in newborns, such as pneumonia and meningitis. Approximately 15 to 40 percent of healthy pregnant individuals carry this bacterium in their vagina or rectum, potentially passing it to the baby during delivery. A vaginal and rectal swab is used to screen for GBS. If you test positive, you’ll be treated with antibiotics during labour to prevent transmission to your baby, as recommended by The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC).

Below is a list of pregnancy symptoms commonly experienced during week 36:

Constipation and/or haemorrhoids: pregnancy isn’t always glowing radiance. As your digestive system slows in response to increased progesterone, causing your muscles to relax, you may experience bloating and gas (from both ends!). Pressure from your growing baby can cause haemorrhoids, resulting in blood in stool, itching around the anus, or general discomfort. Talk to your healthcare provider about options for relief.

Increased vaginal discharge: as your due date approaches, your body will continue preparing for delivery. Increased vaginal discharge is normal and may contain trace amounts of old blood, especially after sex or a pelvic exam. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns to rule out issues.

Stretch marks: as your baby continues to grow and your body adapts, your skin may stretch, causing marks and some discomfort. Stretch marks are largely genetic and nothing to feel guilty about not "preventing." Using lotions and creams can help soothe irritated skin.

Sweating: increased perspiration can be caused by hormonal changes or the additional weight and pressure on your body as you carry your growing baby. Stay hydrated to replace lost fluids.

Heartburn: as your baby continues to press on internal organs, your digestive system may feel the impact of cramped quarters. Combined with ongoing hormonal fluctuations, this can result in heartburn or indigestion. Talk to your healthcare provider about relief options if you’re feeling too uncomfortable.

Braxton Hicks: also known as "practice contractions," Braxton Hicks help prepare your body for labour. These contractions are generally painless or only mildly uncomfortable. If you experience severe pain or if the cramping does not stop, seek medical attention.

Interrupted sleep: trouble sleeping is common at this stage, as midnight bathroom breaks, heartburn, leg cramps, and the anticipation of your newborn make it difficult to get a full night’s rest.

Backaches and/or leg cramps: aches and pains are uncomfortable but normal during pregnancy. Avoid staying in one position for too long, stay hydrated, and talk to your healthcare provider about safe pain relief options.

Swelling or bloating: some swelling is normal and expected, particularly if you are on your feet all day. However, keep an eye on any sudden changes and consult your healthcare provider to ensure there’s no underlying issue, such as pre-eclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication.

Crazy dreams: anticipating your baby’s arrival and the disrupted sleep of the third trimester can result in vivid dreams. While the exact cause is unknown, it may be linked to interrupted sleep patterns.

Nesting: it’s natural to want to prepare your home in anticipation of your baby’s arrival. Enjoy the benefits of organizing and cleaning as part of this instinctive nesting phase!

• Crib Safety: In Canada, ensure that any crib you purchase meets the Health Canada safety standards. Cribs made before 1986 or those with drop-side rails are no longer considered safe. Look for cribs certified by Health Canada's safety guidelines, which ensure cribs comply with safety regulations regarding spacing of slats, mattress fit, and construction quality.
• Expect a Realistic Newborn: Be prepared for your newborn to look a little different than the babies you see in movies or on TV. Newborns are often coated in vernix (a white, waxy substance), may be wrinkled from floating in amniotic fluid, and their heads may be slightly misshapen from the journey through the birth canal. Despite this, your baby will be the most beautiful thing you've ever seen, and those early moments will be unforgettable.
• GBS Awareness: Ensure that you follow up with your healthcare provider about your Group B Strep (GBS) test results and plan for antibiotics during labour if you test positive, as per Canadian guidelines. It’s a routine part of prenatal care and essential for your baby's health.
• Journal Time: Take some time to write in your pregnancy journal. Document these last few weeks and prepare your home for your baby’s arrival. Jot down your thoughts, feelings, and hopes for the upcoming birth experience!