The 36-week pregnancy appointment marks a significant point as the due date approaches, shifting focus from general prenatal care to specific preparations for childbirth and the arrival of the baby. These weekly appointments, which typically begin around this time, ensure the well-being of both the pregnant individual and the baby in the final weeks of pregnancy.
Routine Physical Assessments
At this appointment, healthcare providers perform several standard physical checks. Blood pressure is measured to monitor for conditions such as preeclampsia, and weight is checked to track overall pregnancy progression. A urine sample is collected to screen for protein, which could indicate preeclampsia, and glucose, which may suggest gestational diabetes.
The fundal height is taken to assess the baby’s growth and confirm it aligns with the gestational age. Listening to the baby’s heartbeat assesses fetal well-being. Additionally, the healthcare provider assesses the baby’s position to determine if the baby is head-down for birth.
Key Screenings and Tests
A screening performed around 36 weeks is the Group B Streptococcus (GBS) test. GBS is a common bacterium that can be found in the intestines and lower genital tract of many healthy adults, often without causing symptoms. The test is performed to identify if the pregnant individual carries GBS, as it can be passed to the baby during a vaginal birth and potentially cause serious infection in the newborn.
The GBS test involves a swab of the lower vagina and rectal area. The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis, with results available within 48 hours to a few days. If the test result is positive, intravenous (IV) antibiotics are administered during labor to reduce the risk of GBS transmission to the baby.
Crucial Discussions and Planning
The 36-week appointment also involves conversations and planning for the upcoming birth. Healthcare providers discuss the signs of labor, such as regular contractions, rupture of membranes (water breaking), and changes in vaginal discharge. Guidance is provided on when to contact the hospital or birthing center, with specific recommendations often based on factors like distance from the facility and whether it’s the first pregnancy.
Discussions about the birth plan, if one has been prepared, allow the pregnant individual to share their preferences for labor and delivery with their care team. This includes pain management options, from epidurals and other medications to non-pharmacological methods like hydrotherapy or massage. Hospital admission procedures are also reviewed, ensuring a smoother process when labor begins. Initial postpartum expectations, including early recovery and newborn care, are also discussed.