Week 34

During the third trimester, hormonal fluctuations and changes to chemical (metabolic) processes can affect vision.^1,2

Structures of the eye are susceptible to oestrogen and progesterone changes, specifically the cornea (the transparent layer forming the front of the eye) and the conjunctiva (the transparent, mucous layer covering the eye).² These changes tend to peak in the third trimester² and can temporarily change your vision and cause eye-dryness.¹

If you have noticed any vision changes, contact your healthcare provider. Vision disturbances, such as blurry vision or seeing spots, can be one symptom of pre-eclampsia.³

• Back aches¹ and sciatica⁴
• Leg cramps¹ and restless leg syndrome⁵
• Bloating and gas
• Constipation and haemorrhoids
• Shortness of breath
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Insomnia
• Oedema (swelling)
• Colostrum (precursor fluid to breast milk)
• Braxton Hicks contractions
• Foetal movement

By 34 weeks, your baby should measure approximately 43–46 cm and weigh around 2.3 kg.¹

During weeks 19–34, a waxy-like substance starts to form over your baby’s skin. It is called vernix caseosa and it is a mix of skin cells and oily secretions.⁶ By 34 weeks, it forms a thickened layer and protects the foetal skin from the surrounding amniotic fluid.⁶ During late pregnancy, the vernix layer starts to shed into the amniotic fluid where it is consumed by your baby to help support the developing gastrointestinal system by nourishing healthy gut bacteria. During labour, the vernix acts as a natural lubricant that helps your baby pass through the birth canal and may even help perineal wound healing in vaginal deliveries.⁶

Babies born before their due date often have more vernix than those born later. It is recommended by the World Health Organization to wait at least 6 hours before bathing a newborn, ideally 24 hours, as the vernix layer can help protect newborn skin and may help promote a better latch during breastfeeding.⁶

• Try to remember your prenatal vitamins^7,8
• Staying active and keeping a healthy weight can help support overall health⁹
• Try to avoid alcohol consumption and smoking^10,11
• Nourish your body with pregnancy-safe foods. Try to avoid foods high in mercury, such as mackerel and tuna, raw seafood, undercooked meat, poultry and eggs, unpasteurised foods and cheese with a mould rind such as brie, unwashed fruits and vegetables, and any type of herbal tea¹²
• Ensure any meat, fish or poultry is fully cooked through¹³
• Limit caffeine consumption to no more than 200 mg per day¹⁴
• If you are between 32–36 weeks gestation in November to January, you will be eligible for a vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This vaccine helps to protect your baby in their first 6 months after being born from severe respiratory disease associated with RSV¹
• Count the kicks¹⁵
• Be aware of the main symptoms of pre-eclampsia. These include:³