Third Trimester
36 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby is the size of a Honeydew melon 🍈
🍈
Medically reviewed by
MBBS, MD — Gynecologist & Obstetrician
Last reviewed:
Feb 2026
📏
Size
Honeydew melon
📐
Length
47.4 cm cm
⚖️
Weight
NaN g
🗓️
Trimester
Third
⏱️
Week
36 of 40
🌱 Baby Development at Week 36
Baby is gaining about an ounce per day. Cheeks are full. Skull still has soft spots (fontanelles). Gums are ridged — ready for feeding. Baby's grip is now very strong. If born now, very good chance of healthy outcome.
Hospital bag time!GBS testBaby gaining 1oz/dayBaby may 'drop'
🤱 Common Symptoms
●Baby 'drops' (engages in pelvis)
●Easier breathing after dropping
●Increased pelvic pressure
●Nesting instinct
●More vaginal discharge
🥗 Nutrition Tips
- Easy to digest foods
- Dates 6 per day — studies show shorter labor
- Hydration essential
🏃♀️ Exercise Tips
- Pack hospital bag
- Curb walking (feet in gutter when walking) encourages baby position
- Squats help baby descend
🏥 Medical Tests & Appointments
Group B Strep test (36 weeks)Weekly prenatal visits beginPrepare hospital bag
🔬 Hormone Changes
Prostaglandins begin softening the cervix (ripening). Estrogen increases to prepare for labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions answered by our medical team