• Baby “dropping” (engagement): The baby’s head moves lower into your pelvis, increasing pressure and the need to urinate more often.
• Increased vaginal discharge: May become thicker or more mucus-like. A “show” (pink or blood-stained mucus) is a sign the cervix is starting to open.
• Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions may become stronger and more frequent.
• Period-like cramps or lower backache: Can signal the body is preparing for labour.
• Waters breaking: A gush or trickle of fluid from the vagina indicates the amniotic sac has ruptured.
• Nesting instinct: A sudden burst of energy and urge to prepare your home for the baby.

Yes, pressure often occurs when your baby’s head has engaged, meaning it has moved down into your pelvis in preparation for birth. This can cause a noticeable increase in pelvic pressure, a sensation of heaviness, and even discomfort as the baby presses on your cervix. You may also find yourself needing to urinate more frequently due to the added pressure on your bladder. While this is a normal part of late pregnancy, if the pressure is accompanied by severe pain, bleeding, or other unusual symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider to rule out any complications.

At 36 weeks pregnant, your baby is considered fully developed. While they are still gaining weight and refining functions like breathing and feeding, they are tightly curled up and ready to be born. If this is your first pregnancy, it’s likely that your baby’s head has moved down into your pelvis which is a sign that birth is approaching. Babies born at this stage are classified as late preterm, and most can breathe and feed with minimal medical support. However, continued development of the lungs and brain will occur over the next few weeks, so staying pregnant a little longer is still beneficial.

Though your baby is classified as “late preterm” if born now, most do very well with minimal intervention. That said, the final few weeks are vital for optimal brain development, which grows by nearly 30% between weeks 35 and 39. So every extra day in the womb counts.

If your pregnancy is progressing normally, it's generally safe to have sex and experience orgasm. Many people worry that sexual activity might harm the baby, but rest assured, your baby is well protected inside the amniotic sac, and sex won't cause harm.

However, there are certain situations where sex may not be recommended. These include if you:

• have experienced signs of miscarriage or premature labour
• have a history of cervical weakness
• are dealing with severe abdominal pain or cramping
• have been diagnosed with placenta praevia
• are experiencing vaginal bleeding, or have had unexplained bleeding
• suspect that your waters have broken

If any of these apply, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider before engaging in sexual activity.

If you need to leave for the hospital in a hurry, the most important thing is to get yourself and your baby to medical care safely. Don’t worry about packing. However, if there’s time, try to remember these three essentials:

1. Your pregnancy health record, so hospital staff have your medical history
2. Comfortable clothes and toiletries for labour and your stay
3. Baby essentials, like nappies, a wrap, and a change of clothes

Here’s a quick grab-and-go checklist (place this by the door):

• Health records & ID
• Maternity pads or period-proof underwear
• Phone + charger
• Baby’s first outfit & nappy
• Water bottle & snacks
• Cash or card for hospital parking