Week 34 Pregnancy

Third Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

34 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the third trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of a cantaloupe melon.
Midwife appointment (34 weeks).
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 34 weeks pregnant and in your third trimester. Your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe melon. This week's key development: Ready for the World (Almost). NHS note: Midwife appointment (34 weeks).

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 33

Week 35

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe melon.

Ready for the World (Almost) — Your baby's central nervous system and lungs are maturing rapidly. Babies born at 34 weeks generally do very well with some extra care. The vernix coating is thickening, and your baby is continuing to practise breathing movements every single day.

Cantaloupe melon

Approx. 45cm

Your Symptoms

Swelling (oedema)
Vision changes (contact your midwife)
Fatigue

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

Midwife appointment (34 weeks). Discuss signs of labour and when to call.

Practical Advice for Week 34

Nutrition

Continue vitamin D daily.
Your baby's nervous system and lungs are maturing — good nutrition supports this.
Eat foods rich in vitamin C (citrus, berries, peppers) for your immune system.
Stay well hydrated to reduce swelling and Braxton Hicks.

Exercise

Gentle walking and birth ball exercises are ideal now.
If pelvic girdle pain is severe, ask for a physiotherapy referral.
Swimming provides wonderful relief from the heaviness of late pregnancy.
Continue pelvic floor exercises — they aid recovery after birth.

Wellbeing

If you notice sudden swelling in your face, hands, or feet, call your midwife immediately — it can indicate pre-eclampsia.
Vision changes (blurriness or flashing lights) should also be reported urgently.
Fatigue is heavy — rest without guilt.
Practice the breathing techniques you've learned — they'll serve you well in labour.

Preparation

Midwife appointment at 34 weeks — discuss signs of labour and when to call.
Know your hospital's phone number and when to ring the labour ward.
Ensure your birth partner has a copy of your birth plan.
Prepare freezer meals — your future self will thank you.

Tip of the Week

If you have sudden swelling in your face, hands or feet, call your midwife immediately as it can be a sign of pre-eclampsia.

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 34

How many months is 34 weeks pregnant?

At 34 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 7 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 34 weeks?

At 34 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of a cantaloupe melon (about 45cm). Your baby's central nervous system and lungs are maturing rapidly. Babies born at 34 weeks generally do very well with some extra care. The vernix coating is thickening, and your baby is continuing to practise breathing movements every single day.

What are the common symptoms at 34 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include swelling (oedema), vision changes (contact your midwife), fatigue. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 34 weeks in the third trimester?

Yes, 34 weeks falls within the third trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 34 weeks?

Midwife appointment (34 weeks). Discuss signs of labour and when to call.