Day 246 of 280, third trimester
You are 35 weeks and 1 day
You may be surprised to find your social life already changing, and the baby hasn't even arrived yet!
34 days until your due date
If you've become a homebody lately, that's quite normal; wanting to stay home is common in the last stages of pregnancy. You may be reluctant to make social plans for the next few weeks just in case, for example not wanting to spend money on a theater ticket you might not use. Do pencil in dates with friends, though, because they'll understand if you cancel at the last minute, and once you're on leave you'll be glad to get out in the evenings.
Make the most of going out with your partner in these last weeks, since dinner dates may not be on the agenda once the baby arrives.
Focus on
Your body: A soothing swim
You may feel too big to exercise, but swimming is great in late pregnancy. The water supports the weight of your belly, so you may feel much lighter than usual. Do some gentle swimming as well as just relaxing in the water, and consider prenatal water aerobics classes, which have exercises tailored to pregnant women.
Ask a Doctor
My feet are swollen and tight. Can I do anything about it?
Swollen feet and ankles (edema) are caused by excess fluid seeping into the tissues because of your increased blood volume. As blood volume keeps rising in late pregnancy, it's a common problem, usually worse later in the day and in warm weather.
To reduce the swelling, raise your legs when sitting, rotate your feet, and lie on the floor with your feet up the wall. Support hose also improve circulation. Drink plenty, especially water, which improves kidney function and reduces water retention. Don't take diuretics, as studies have found they can harm an unborn baby.
Explainer
Weightless in the pool
In hot weather, a swimming pool can be the best place to be. Lie back on a float and enjoy the wonderful feeling of weightlessness.
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.