You're 36 weeks pregnant!

Medically reviewed by Valinda Riggins Nwadike, MD, MPH & Adda Bjarnadóttir, MS, LN

What's going on with you this week?

Welcome to week 36! You're hitting another pretty exciting milestone: Week 36 is the first week in your ninth and final month of pregnancy. Holy cow, you've made it to your last month. The finish line is so close now that you could reach out and touch it. Get ready to meet your baby!

When it's the 'March of the Penguins' all day, every day

As if lightning crotch wasn't weird enough, here comes the "pregnancy waddle." There are lots of reasons why you might find yourself waddling around like a tired penguin or a little duck these days.

The hormone relaxin has been working to loosen your joints and ligaments, which then makes your pelvis widen. Additionally, your baby is exerting a downward pressure on your pelvis, and your larger belly is completely throwing off your center of gravity.

All of those things combined add up to you suddenly adopting this very charming bird-like walk. Of course, all of this is completely normal, and is, in fact, a good sign that your body is getting ready to give birth. Don't worry, you won't be stuck with this forever. Your waddle will fade away after your baby is delivered. We promise. In the meantime, quack quack!

Real talk — it's time to pack your birth bag

Now, we've mentioned this a few times, but maybe you figured you have plenty of time to deal with all that before you have to go have your baby. Plus, you're tired! Very, very tired. Can't someone else pack your bag? Here's the good news: Yes, yes they can. Here's the bad news: You still need to figure out what’s going in there.

Think about what items you’ll want to have to make the experience more comfortable for you and whoever’s in the birthing room with you. Your partner may end up staying overnight, so make sure to take that into account as well. You'll want to pack some distractions such as books, magazines, a stress ball, and music.

You should also remember to bring important documents like your insurance info, pre-registration forms, IDs, and your birth plan. Make sure to pack some comfy PJs, deodorant, lip balm, and a toothbrush.

And, of course, the fun part — something for the baby to wear on your way home. Pick something comfy for the baby and make sure it's easy for you to take on and off quickly, because newborns tend to need a lot of diaper changes, and they’re known for their spectacularly bad timing. Don't forget the baby's most important item — a car seat. You won't be able to bring baby without one.

Is this all starting to feel real yet? A full-term pregnancy is technically 39 weeks, but only your baby knows when they’re going to arrive. So be prepared now, just in case. Did we mention that babies are not known for having great timing? Pack that bag and check this to-do off your list this week.

Parenthood is expensive but your breast pump doesn't have to be. Let Aeroflow handle the entire process with your insurance company so you don't have to.

GET STARTED

If you buy something through a link in this email, we may earn a small commission. How this works.

Eat

Kale Barley Salad With Feta. This salad won't sit heavily in your stomach afterwards.

1-Minute Coffee Cake In A Mug. Craving something sweet? Treat yourself to this quick and easy dessert.

Drink

Mixed Berry Smoothie Bowl. Alright, alright. We know this is more of a meal you eat than drink, but feel free to put it in a tumbler when you’re on the go. This light breakfast is full of fiber, protein, and magnesium that may help with swelling.

Shop

Anything you need for your birth bag. And maybe even a cute new tote, like one of these! Make a list of items you still need to pick up for your bag.

Do

Book a lactation consultant. Most hospitals have one on staff to help you right away. Definitely take them up on that offer. If you’re not giving birth at a hospital, you’ll want to hire a lactation consultant ahead of time.

Get a mani-pedi. If it's your thing, treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure this week. It's an ideal time for a little pampering before your baby arrives.