Can you give birth at 36 weeks

What happens when babies are born at 36 weeks?

The health of both mother and baby are essential during any pregnancy. If labor or birth is likely to occur at 36 weeks, it is crucial to understand all the risks and benefits.

Delivering a baby at 36 weeks, which is known as late preterm, can happen spontaneously or may require induction. A doctor might induce a pregnancy for a variety of reasons, including preterm labor, severe preeclampsia, placental problems, fetal growth restriction, or gestational diabetes.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) do not recommend voluntarily inducing labor before 39 weeks gestation unless there is a medical need to do so.

Most babies born at 36 weeks are generally healthy. However, there are some risks that people should be aware of.

Share on PinterestCurrent guidelines recommend that a baby stays in the womb for 39 weeks.

According to ACOG:

a gestational age below 28 weeks is extremely preterm
a gestational age of 28 – 32 weeks is very preterm
a gestational age between 32 and 37 weeks is moderate to late preterm
a gestational age between 34 and 36 weeks is late preterm
a gestational age between 37 and 38 weeks is early term
a gestational age of 39 weeks and beyond is full-term

According to March of Dimes, late preterm deliveries accounted for 6. 9 percent of all live births in the United States in 2015.

Previously, ACOG considered 37 weeks as a full-term pregnancy. However, because many babies born at 37 weeks experienced complications, they changed their guidelines. Now, the recommended time for a baby to stay inside the womb is at least 39 weeks unless medically indicated.

Some infants born in the late preterm period are physiologically and developmentally immature when compared to full-term infants and are at higher risks of sickness and death. Risk of infant death or sickness decreases significantly with each passing week of gestation.

Understanding which babies are most at risk for sickness and death can help healthcare providers prepare for possible complications.

According to a 2012 report in Seminars in Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, between 2006–2008 in the U.S., the rate for infant death among babies born 34 to 36 weeks was 7.1 per 1000 births. In comparison, the mortality rate for babies born 32-33 weeks was 16. 2 per 1000 live births.

Babies born at 36 weeks are more at risk for developmental problems, both physically and mentally, when compared to their full-term counterparts.

Babies born at 36 weeks gestation are at a higher risk than babies born at term for the following:

cerebral palsy
poor school performance
need for early intervention services
special education needs
behavioral and psychiatric problems

According to research posted to the American Journal of Perinatology, late preterm children of preschool age were less able to follow directions and perform memory tasks when compared to their peers born at full-term.

Another study revealed that late preterm infants showed reduced developmental outcomes at 9 months of age when compared to full-term infants. However, these differences were not apparent at 2 years old but reemerged in kindergarten children concerning preschool reading, preschool math, and kindergarten reading.

Being aware of these complications can help parents, teachers, and healthcare providers target surveillance and early intervention.

Share on PinterestComplications of being born at 36 weeks include a low birth weight.

Although babies born at 36 weeks are generally healthy and are at lower risk for health complications than babies who are born earlier than this, they may still experience some health issues.

Sometimes, it is difficult to identify whether the complication is due to early birth itself or a medical reason that triggered the early delivery.

Complications can include the following:

respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)
sepsis
patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
jaundice requiring phototherapy
low birth weight
low blood sugar levels
difficulty regulating temperature
feeding difficulties
death

As a result of these complications, babies may need to be admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or readmitted to the hospital after going home.

There is a variety of medical reasons why a baby is born at 36 weeks. Late preterm birth is most often due to a woman going into labor early. However, a medical condition that the mother or baby has developed may also cause preterm delivery.

Doctors recommend that babies remain inside the womb until at least 39 weeks, if possible, for the best outcomes.

Babies born at 36 weeks may face challenges, such as health complications and developmental delays into childhood.

Being aware of these difficulties allows the parents and doctor to put a plan in place.

Babies Born at 36 Weeks: What Are the Risks?

Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — By Chaunie Brusie on January 10, 2018

The old standard for ‘full term’

At one time, 37 weeks was considered full term for babies in the womb. That meant doctors felt that they were developed enough to be delivered safely.

But doctors started to realize something after too many inductions resulted in complications. It turns out that 37 weeks isn’t the best age for babies to pop out. There are reasons a woman’s body keeps that baby in there longer.

Early term vs. full term

Too many babies were born with complications at 37 weeks. As a result, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists changed its official guidelines.

Any pregnancy over 39 weeks is now considered full term. Babies born 37 weeks to 38 weeks and six days are considered early term.

The new guidelines have resulted in more babies staying in the womb longer. But it can be hard to shake the old way of thinking about 37 weeks being OK. And if that’s the case, a 36-week baby should be fine too, right?

In most cases, the answer is yes. But there are a few things you should know.

Why your due date might be off

It turns out that whatever due date your doctor gave you might be off by a week. So if you consider yourself full term at 37 weeks, you may only be 36 weeks pregnant.

Unless you conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and have scientific proof of exactly when you became pregnant, your due date is likely off.

Even for women with regular, exactly 28-day cycles, the exact time of fertilization and implantation can vary. When you have sex, when you ovulate, and when implantation occurs all factor in.

For these reasons, it’s difficult to predict a precise due date. So whenever it’s not medically necessary to induce labor, it’s important to let it start on its own.

Risks of a 36-week delivery

It’s best to let labor progress naturally. But sometimes babies are born prematurely. In cases involving conditions like preeclampsia, early delivery might even be the safest option. But there are still risks for babies born before full term.

At 36 weeks, a baby is considered late preterm. According to the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, late preterm babies born between 34 and 36 weeks account for nearly three-fourths of all preterm births and about 8 percent of total births in the United States. The rate of babies born at this stage has risen 25 percent since 1990.

At 36 weeks, the risk of health complications decreases significantly. The risk is much lower from babies born even at 35 weeks. But late preterm babies are still at risk for:

respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)
sepsis
patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
jaundice
low birth weight
difficulty regulating temperature
developmental delays or special needs
death

As a result of complications, late preterm babies may need to be admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or even readmitted to the hospital after discharge.

RDS is by far the biggest risk for babies born at 36 weeks. Baby boys seem to have more trouble than late preterm girls. Although only about 5 percent of babies born at 36 weeks are admitted to the NICU, almost 30 percent experience some degree of respiratory distress.

Infant mortality for babies at 36 weeks, after accounting for babies with undetected heart abnormalities, was around 0. 8 percent.

The takeaway

In most cases, delivery at 36 weeks isn’t by choice. Most babies born late preterm happen because of premature labor or a woman’s water breaking early. In those situations, it’s best to know what risks your newborn could face and prepare a plan with your doctor.

If you’re considering voluntary early induction, the moral of the story is to keep that baby in there as long as possible.

Last medically reviewed on January 11, 2018

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How we reviewed this article:

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American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. (2013). Ob-Gyns redefine meaning of “term pregnancy.” [Press release].
acog.org/About-ACOG/News-Room/News-Releases/2013/Ob-Gyns-Redefine-Meaning-of-Term-Pregnancy
Chyi LJ, et al. (2008). School outcomes of late preterm infants: Special needs and challenges for infants born at 32 to 36 weeks gestation [Abstract]. DOI:
10.1016/j.jpeds.2008.01.027
Loftin RW, et al. (2010). Late preterm births.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2876317/
Ingemarsson I. (2003). Gender aspects of preterm birth [Abstract].
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12763109
Wilcox AJ, et al. (1999). Time of implantation of the conceptus and loss of pregnancy [Abstract]. DOI:
10.1056/NEJM199906103402304
Wilcox AJ, et al. (1995). Timing of sexual intercourse in relation to ovulation. Effects on the probability of conception, survival of the pregnancy, and sex of the baby [Abstract]. DOI:
10.1056/NEJM199512073332301

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Jan 11, 2018

Written By

Chaunie Brusie

Edited By

Nizam Khan (TechSpace)

Medically Reviewed By

Debra Sullivan, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, COI

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Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — By Chaunie Brusie on January 10, 2018

36 weeks of pregnancy what happens to the fetus

During this period, the fetus begins direct preparation for the moment of birth and adapts to the next period of life. In a woman, this period is different in that she can start giving birth at any time. For the first births, as a rule, the onset is likely to occur at a later period, after thirty-eight weeks.

During this period, a pregnant woman begins the last month of pregnancy, so this is the beginning of a very serious period for her. Since normally, childbirth can begin in a pregnant woman from the thirty-seventh to forty-second weeks, there are only a few days or weeks left before the onset of labor, so it is necessary to plan the place where the birth will take place, it makes sense to get acquainted with a specialist who will deal with childbirth.

Since the unborn child is large and it is quite crowded in the uterus, he moves less often. But there should be at least ten movements in twelve hours of observation. Supervision by a specialist is especially important in breech presentation of the fetus.

Since labor can begin at any time, it is advisable that the woman has all the necessary things for childbirth.

During this period, a woman's belly is so large that it is difficult for her to find comfortable positions for sleeping and resting. She often has back pain. Fetal movements can be perceived as very strong blows to the lower abdomen, to the liver or under the ribs. A woman may feel that her stomach is sinking, after which, subjectively, it becomes easier for her to breathe. This may be a harbinger of a very early onset of labor. After a pregnant woman's stomach sank, most often she disappears the unpleasant sensation that haunted her during pregnancy - heartburn. During this period, frequent lack of sleep begins, as it can be difficult for a woman to find a comfortable position for sleeping. At night, frequent urges to the toilet may disturb.

The weight of the unborn child during this period is usually 2600-2800 g. If this figure is higher, the expectant mother should pay attention to the diet.

It should be borne in mind that during the period of the thirty-sixth week, labor can begin and they can end with the birth of a completely healthy baby. In order for multiparous people to understand that they are starting labor, one should pay attention to the harbingers of this event for multiparous people. Women giving birth for the first time should take courses for expectant mothers, it will be very useful for them to watch a video of childbirth in order to imagine what is happening during this period.

Active fetal movement and lowering of the abdomen may be a precursor. During this period, a woman may have lower back pain and pull the lower abdomen.

Ultrasound examination is not scheduled during this period. But if there is evidence, you should complain to a specialist and carry it out. If there are signs of a pathological condition, the specialist may prescribe a caesarean section.

In a pregnant woman who has not given birth for the first time, dilatation of the cervix can occur very quickly. After the cork comes out, childbirth begins quickly enough.

36th week of pregnancy: sensations, weight and development of the fetus

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From this week, your baby's head can sink into the pelvis, and your stomach will also sink at the same time. When this happens, the expectant mother finally begins to breathe freely, but now the uterus and the baby in it put more and more pressure on the bladder. However, during the first pregnancy, it is likely that the prolapse of the abdomen will not happen now, but right in the process of childbirth.

Coming soon! With only 4 weeks left until your due date, your baby is actively preparing for life outside the womb. Every day you are getting closer to the wonderful moment when you will take your baby in your arms for the first time, but the birth still does not seem close.

Many mothers at this time are lost in thought and trying to enjoy the last weeks of pregnancy. You may experience a new sense of wonder and respect for your body and how it knows what to do. Or maybe you just wish your pregnancy was finally over and wish the last few weeks would just disappear.

Where is the bucket and mop?

Don't be surprised if you wake up one morning and feel as if you were blind before and now your eyes have been opened. There is dust and dirt everywhere, and you don't understand why you didn't notice it. Welcome to the nesting stage.

If you used to feel a little tired, now you will be overwhelmed by the energy that overwhelms you. You want to organize everything and put everything on the shelves, sort through the boxes and throw away the excess. After the baby is born, you will be glad that you did a lot of cleaning - in the first weeks you will not be up to it.

Keep in mind that some pregnant women at this stage become a little "tyrant" and put a lot of pressure on their partner, and on themselves too. Try to focus on one task and finish it before moving on to the next. If family or friends offer to help, say yes.

It's not my fault!

Why do women in late pregnancy feel the need to organize their "nest"? This behavior is inherent in nature itself, and you are unlikely to be able to resist it. Just do what she says.

Physical changes at 36 weeks of gestation

It may turn out that this week you only have to dream about sleep. It is impossible to lie on your stomach, and it is not recommended to lie on your back, so sleeping on your side becomes the only option. The problem is that you only have two sides, and in the end it may end up with you tracking them both. Take more comfortable, supportive pillows to bed and consider putting a soft blanket under the sheet. It really works.

Get into the habit of going to the toilet several times a night. Your uterus becomes so large that your bladder overflows with minimal fluid. Don't get up too fast, let your blood pressure go back to normal. Do not turn off the light in the toilet all night - it will become your beacon in a dark apartment. At 36 weeks pregnant, a woman is rather clumsy, and you need to do your best not to stumble in your regular nocturnal adventures.
The doctor will suggest that you visit him weekly until delivery. During examinations, he will measure blood pressure, weight, the size of your uterus, take a urine test. He will check if the height of the uterine fundus corresponds to the gestational age. If something is wrong, you can have an ultrasound to more accurately determine the size of the baby and placenta, as well as the amount of amniotic fluid.
If you have a free minute, expose your stomach and observe the movements taking place in it. You will be able to see the outline of a small leg, elbow or knee. If you gently poke your finger in response, you will see how the baby moves away from him. Let your loved one join the game so that he also feels involved in your pregnancy. If he decides to talk to the child through the abdominal wall, the baby will most likely begin to move in response.
Over the next weeks your pelvic bones will begin to separate and their joints become looser and this can be painful. You will find yourself subconsciously placing your hands on your lower back, abdomen, hips, and even grimacing. You will cast knowing glances at other pregnant women because you know what they are going through. A warm shower or bath, a massage, relaxation, and just taking care of yourself will all help you get through the last weeks.
If your baby's head drops into the pelvis this week, it will become easier for you to breathe. Your lungs and diaphragm will be able to expand a little and move to a normal position. Almost.

Emotional changes at 36 weeks of pregnancy

The date of birth is close, but sometimes it seems that it will never come. The ninth month of pregnancy can seem endless, especially for women who experience intense physical discomfort and are already tired of being pregnant.
If you have children, you may secretly rejoice that you still have a few weeks left. During this time, you will have time to do, organize and control a lot. It's amazing what can be achieved when you feel the deadline approaching! Remember that you don't have to do everything yourself. Assign simple tasks to children, and serious tasks to your partner. Most men like to be given clear tasks, so make a to-do list and include all the necessary details in it.

What happens to the baby this week of pregnancy

Your baby weighs about 2. 7 kg this week and is about 51 cm long. If your baby were born this week, he would most likely be able to breathe on his own. However, there is a chance that the newborn will have minor problems with feeding and suckling.
A baby's intestines are filled with meconium, a sticky and tarry black substance that he will show you when he poops for the first time. Some babies may do this while still in the womb, which may be a sign of a stressed baby. Meconium will give the amniotic fluid a greenish tint. If your waters broke and they had an unusual color, tell your doctor.
Your little one's skull is complex: his bones are mobile and will fuse together as he gets a little older. During childbirth, it is important that the baby's skull can transform and adapt to the shape of the mother's birth canal. If this is your first pregnancy, your baby's head may start to sink into your pelvis this week.
At 36 weeks, the baby is in a comfortable position for delivery. He doesn't have enough room to turn and his movements are severely limited. If your baby is not in cephalic presentation, you should discuss delivery options with your doctor.

Tips 36 weeks

Do not forget about oral hygiene! Preterm labor can be caused by gum infection, so it's important that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss your teeth, and see your dentist regularly. If you have never been to him during your pregnancy, make an appointment for this week. The bacteria that cause dental caries are highly contagious and can get from the mother's mouth into the child's sterile mouth with saliva and breath.