Week 36 of Pregnancy: What's Going On Inside

British Columbia Specific Information

If you have any questions or concerns about pregnancy, labour and baby care speak with your health care provider or contact HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 to speak with a registered nurse anytime of the day or night, any day of the year, or a pharmacist from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m.

You can also read Baby's Best Chance (PDF 14.88 MB), a parent’s handbook on pregnancy and baby care.

You can also access SmartParent, a Canadian prenatal education program that provides trustworthy educational text messages to help guide you through the weeks of your pregnancy.

On this page:

Overview

At this time, your baby may be spending a lot of time upside down. This "head-down" position can be more comfortable for your baby because of the pear shape of your uterus. It's also easier to give birth if your baby's head comes out first.

Wondering what your baby looks like at 36 weeks? Your baby is now about the size of a spaghetti squash. Average baby length is 450 mm (18 in.). And average baby weight is 2268 g (5 lb).

How your baby is changing

Here are some important things to know about this stage.

  • You'll notice more movement or less movement at certain times of the day and night.
  • By the end of 36 weeks, baby's skin is smooth. The arms and legs look chubby.
  • If your baby is born after week 36 of pregnancy, the chances of healthy survival are very good.

Credits

Adaptation Date: 9/13/2023

Adapted By: HealthLink BC

Adaptation Reviewed By: HealthLink BC