Pregnancy Diary: 33 & 34 Weeks Pregnant – Maternity Leave & Final Prep

Hello all and welcome to my 33 and 34 weeks pregnant update. We’re getting so close now – just a matter of weeks until baby arrives! These past two weeks have been all about finishing work, getting final preparations sorted, and coming to terms with the fact that I’m about to become a mum. It’s exciting and terrifying in equal measure.

All my pregnancy diary blog posts:

Pregnancy Diary Week 4

Pregnancy Diary Week 5

Pregnancy Diary – 6 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary – 7 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary – 8 Weeks Pregnant

Pregnancy Diary – 9 Weeks Pregnant

Pregnancy Diary – 10 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary – 11 & 12 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 13 & 14 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 15 & 16 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 17 & 18 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 19 & 20 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 21 & 22 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 23 & 24 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 25 & 26 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 27 & 28 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 29 & 30 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 31 & 32 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 33 & 34 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 35 & 36 weeks pregnant

Pregnancy Diary: 37 & 38 weeks pregnant

Birth Story

33 & 34 Weeks Pregnant

It’s getting closer now – baby could be here in as little as 3-6 weeks! It’s both exciting and scary. Let me recap what’s been happening these past couple of weeks.

Starting Maternity Leave at 33 Weeks

I finished work for maternity leave, which was such a relief! I had five and a half weeks of holiday to take, so I’m lucky that I could finish this early. Although I’ve had it relatively easy work-wise – I’ve been working from home due to COVID, so I’ve been able to keep isolating and rest when I’ve not felt well – work was still constantly on my mind, and I had a lot of guilt about not being at my best. So it was lovely to finish and not have to think about it for the next 13 months. I can finally focus entirely on preparing for baby.

Hospital Bag Packing Progress

I’ve packed the baby’s hospital bag which felt like a major milestone! Now I just need to pack mine, and there are a few things I still want to add to each bag. I have my 36-week appointment on Tuesday, and we’ll go through birth plan and what to take so things, so things might change a bit depending on that advice. I want to get my bag completely finished in the next couple of weeks so it’s off my mind and I know we’re ready whenever baby decides to arrive.

Virtual Antenatal Class Experience

I attended an antenatal class over Zoom, which was different from what I’d imagined but still really helpful. It covered what to do when you go into labour, when to call the hospital, what happens during labour, pain relief options, and some things specific to our hospital – like where to go and what to expect. At the end, we set up a WhatsApp group, and there are five of us in it now. It’s nice to connect with other mums-to-be who are at the same stage.

Stretch Mark Update

In terms of stretch marks, it’s the same as my last update – just the ones on my legs and hips, with none on my stomach yet. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that stays the way, though I know I’ve still got a few weeks to go where they could appear!

Baby’s Development at 33-34 Weeks

The baby seems absolutely fine – I’ve had no appointments or anything concerning flagged up. He’ll be around 6lbs now, I think, which is quite scary to consider as some babies are that weight at full term! He moves around a lot still and keeps getting hiccups, which is the strangest sensation. I think he’s head down now, but I’ll get that confirmed at my 36-week appointment. It’s reassuring to feel all that movement, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Third Trimester Symptoms: Tiredness and Acid Reflux

Tiredness and acid reflux are my biggest challenges right now. The exhaustion is relentless – I could sleep all day and still feel shattered. The acid reflux is particularly bad at night when I’m trying to sleep, which doesn’t help with the tiredness! I’m uncomfortable most of the time, and honestly, it’s getting worse and worse by the day. I know it’s all worth it, but the final weeks of pregnancy are definitely tough going.

Final Thoughts

Weeks 33 and 34 have been all about finishing work and shifting into full preparation mode. It still doesn’t feel entirely real that I’m going to be a mum in just a few weeks’ time! Getting the hospital bags sorted and attending the antenatal class has made everything feel more concrete, though.

The tiredness and acid reflux are really challenging at this stage, and I won’t lie – I’m finding these final weeks quite uncomfortable. But I’m trying to rest as much as possible and remind myself that it’s all temporary. Not long now until we meet our little one!

How are you finding this stage of pregnancy if you’re at a similar point? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments.

Frequently Asked Questions: 33-34 Weeks Pregnant

When should I start maternity leave?

This is very personal and depends on your job, how you’re feeling, and your financial situation. I started mine at 33 weeks because I had holiday to use, and I’m glad I did as the tiredness was overwhelming by this point. Some women work right up until labour, whilst others finish earlier. Do what feels right for you.

What should be in baby’s hospital bag at 33 weeks?

By 33-34 weeks, it’s a good idea to have your baby’s hospital bag packed and ready. Mine included newborn and 0-3 month baby grows, vests, nappies, blankets, a going-home outfit, and a car seat. Check with your hospital for their specific list as some provide certain items.

What happens at a 36-week appointment?

At your 36-week appointment, your midwife will typically check baby’s position, measure your bump, check your blood pressure and urine, and discuss your birth plan in detail. They’ll also talk about what to pack for hospital and when to go in when labour starts. It’s a good chance to ask any last-minute questions.

How much should baby weigh at 34 weeks?

At 34 weeks, babies typically weigh around 4.5-5.5lbs (2-2.5kg), though this varies considerably. My baby was estimated to be around 6lbs at this point, which is on the larger side. Your midwife can give you a better idea based on your bump measurements.

Is extreme tiredness normal at 33-34 weeks pregnant?

Yes, extreme tiredness in the third trimester is very common. Your body is working incredibly hard growing a baby, you’re carrying extra weight, and sleep is often disrupted by discomfort, needing the loo, and acid reflux. I found the exhaustion at this stage as bad as the first trimester fatigue.

How can I manage acid reflux in late pregnancy?

Acid reflux got progressively worse for me in the third trimester. Sleeping propped up with pillows helped, as did eating smaller meals and avoiding trigger foods. Gaviscon was my best friend! If it’s severe, speak to your midwife as they can recommend safe treatments.