Day 245 of 280, third trimester
You are 35 weeks exactly
The reality of being a mother will start to sink in over these final weeks, and you have everything to look forward to.
35 days until your due date
Before the birth, it can be hard to imagine having a relationship with your baby, even if you've felt a close bond during pregnancy. Fortunately, bonding is a chemical process in your brain when you give birth. Other people's babies may leave you cold, but your own baby is very likely to spark all kinds of feelings you never knew you could have.
It's normal to worry about being a mother: coping with the responsibility, caring for a helpless baby, being "good enough," and changing your lifestyle. But once your baby is born, your priorities will become very clear, as will your affections, although bonding isn't always instant. In some cases, postpartum depression or even the short-term baby blues can interrupt the natural growth of a mother's feelings for her newborn.
Ask a Doctor
Will I be able to breastfeed my twins?
Yes, but if possible arrange for a lactation consultant experienced with twins to be available after the birth. If you get the positions and latch right from the start, you'll feel much more confident carrying on alone. Many moms of twins find feeding both at once, using a specially designed breastfeeding pillow, is easiest, and you may want to buy one now. A consultant or midwife can show you a range of effective positions for twins.
Focus on
Your body: Pamper yourself
You may not feel particularly lovely, which is all the more reason to pamper yourself; there probably won't be time for beauty rituals once the baby arrives.
- Treat yourself to a manicure, but skip nail extensions for when the baby comes, since sharp nails and babies don't mix.
- Have a facial: it'll make you feel good and help you relax.
- Get your hair cut, as it may be a while before you get to the hairdresser again, and choose a style that's easy to manage with a baby.
- If you have aches and pains, book a massage with someone who specializes in pregnancy.
- Have a pedicure a week or two before the birth. You'll be thrilled when your belly has gone and you can see your feet again.
Explainer
Caring for your belly's skin
Gently exfoliating and moisturizing keeps the skin on your belly as smooth as possible. Unfortunately it won't prevent stretch marks, but it will improve how the skin looks.
Appointments and key dates around now
- RSV vaccineFrom 28 weeks
Read the full 35 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.