Baby born at 35 weeks: Development, Average Weight, NICU?

If your baby has just been born at 35 weeks, you might have some questions. In this blog, we will give you more information about having a baby born at 35 weeks.

This blog includes:

• Are babies born at 35 weeks considered premature?
• Is my baby fully developed at 35 weeks?
• Do babies born at 35 weeks need NICU?
• Treatment in the NICU after a premature birth
• Can I visit my premature baby in the NICU?
• What is the average weight of a baby born at 35 weeks?
• What to be aware of with a preterm baby born at 35 weeks
• Signs of preterm birth at 35 weeks

The idea of giving birth before 40 weeks can be quite scary. You must let your healthcare provider know if you think you are going into early labour. They will give you the most accurate advice and information.

Are babies born at 35 weeks considered premature?

Babies that are born before the 37-week mark are considered premature. However, there are different names depending on how early the baby arrives.

Babies born before 25 weeks are considered ‘extremely preterm’. Your baby can also be very preterm (26 – 31 weeks) and moderately preterm (32 – 33 weeks).

At 35 weeks, a baby is considered ‘late preterm’ – 34 – 36 weeks. This indicates that the baby is early but that they are almost full-term. Between 37 and 40 weeks is considered full term, and babies born after 41 weeks are considered late term or post-term (after 42 weeks).

In most cases, actions will be taken to avoid babies being born post-term. This may include the mother being invited for an induction to help bring on the labour.

Is my baby fully developed at 35 weeks?

A baby born at 35 weeks is considered late premature, and they are still developing. At 35 weeks, the premature baby will look similar to a full-term baby, but they may be slightly smaller.

Their internal organs will still be developing as they are born. In some cases, this can mean that premature babies need extra support and care after birth. Don’t worry – your healthcare provider will ensure that you are informed at every stage.

Given that just two more weeks in the womb would mean they are full-term, many babies have no issues at 35 weeks. The development rate of late preterm babies shouldn’t be too dissimilar to full-term babies that are born closer to their due date. Some preterm babies can also experience the following.

• Body hair
• Less muscle tone
• Thin skin
• Abnormal breathing pattern

Do babies born at 35 weeks need NICU?

NICU stands for neonatal intensive care unit, and some babies have to go there when they’re born. This can be quite upsetting for new parents, but it is for the best. It allows the baby to get the treatment and special care they need.

Infants born at 35 weeks will usually need to be monitored for a day or two. This monitoring might be completed in the NICU.

Providing that your baby is stable when they arrive, you should still be able to have skin-to-skin contact. A lot of the time, the monitoring of your baby will be precautionary so that any issues can be identified early.

NICU isn’t just used for preterm birth. It can also be used for babies born with a low birth weight or babies that need further care.

Treatment in the NICU after a premature birth

Your baby’s treatment in the NICU depends on the issue being dealt with. Some babies may be placed in an incubator. This helps the medical team to ensure the baby is warm enough.

The medical team will be monitoring babies for many things, such as breathing, body temperature, blood oxygen levels and heart rates. They will record all of this data so that patterns can be identified.

A very small number of babies born at 35 weeks may struggle to breathe alone. If this happens, do not panic. The doctors will do what they can to help them breathe.

In addition to breathing support, some babies may also need a feeding tube. This can help to ensure they get the essential nutrients they need. Some premature babies have a feeding tube in the nose and others in the mouth to reach the baby’s stomach.

The trained healthcare professionals will keep you updated when your baby is receiving treatment.

Can I visit my premature baby in the NICU?

This will depend on the hospital’s policies, so check this. However, most NICUs allow parents to visit at all hours.

You may be able to have other visitors at specific times during the day. You’ll be told about these. The hospital staff will do everything they can to make you feel at ease.

What is the average weight of a baby born at 35 weeks?

Late preterm infants usually weigh around 5 1/2 to 6 pounds. In comparison, a full-term baby typically weighs around 7 pounds.

It’s important to remember that every baby is different. Your doctor will monitor your baby’s weight in the hospital. After this, you can weigh your baby at home.

Your health visitor will also be involved to support you. They will check your baby’s weight and assess their developmental milestones.

Babies born at 35 weeks will usually weigh less than full-term babies, so remember this when you’re checking the weight. Read our article on the average baby weight.

What to be aware of with a preterm baby born at 35 weeks

Most babies born at 35 weeks will be safe and well, but they may also experience a few effects of being early.

• Increased chance of neurodivergence
• Respiratory issues
• Developmental delays
• Mental health conditions

Your health visitor will assist you throughout your baby’s early life. They can help you to spot the signs of the above. If you are concerned, don’t wait for your next visit. Instead, make an appointment with your doctor. They will be able to support you and conduct tests to form conclusions.

Just because your baby was born prematurely doesn’t mean they will experience any of the above. Many babies are totally healthy when born at 35 weeks.

Signs of preterm birth at 35 weeks

If you’re yet to give birth but you think you might be experiencing preterm delivery, seek advice as soon as possible.

• Regular contractions
• Increased pressure
• Release of the mucus plug
• Waters breaking
• Back pain

You must let them know about any other changes you experience, such as movement changes or bleeding. It’s very important that premature babies have access to professional treatment as soon as possible.

There are many reasons why your baby may arrive early. The important thing to do is seek advice early. You should also conduct research and make yourself aware of warning signs to look out for.

Many babies born at 35 weeks can live healthy lives with no issues. A small number of babies may require further support after birth. Premature babies will be monitored at the hospital for at least 24 hours.

It’s very important that you seek advice if you notice any changes in your baby when you leave the hospital. It’s always better to get changes checked out.

We hope this article has been useful for your baby born at 35 weeks and wish you all the best with parenting!