35 weeks pregnant: the GBS swab and your pain relief choices

At 35 weeks pregnant, the Group B Streptococcus (GBS) swab is due. KKH recommends a swab from the vagina and rectum between 35 and 37 weeks to check whether you carry GBS, a bacteria that can cause serious infection in a newborn. It's also time to choose pain relief, because some options need planning.

The GBS swab

It's a quick swab. If it shows you carry GBS, KKH says that may affect whether you're given antibiotics during labour after your water bag breaks.

Your pain relief options

Labour isn't a test of toughness, KKH says, so ask for pain relief when you need it. The options:

Plan for pain relief even if you hope for a birth without drugs, KKH advises, because an epidural needs an anaesthetist to be ready, and leaving it to the last minute can mean waiting. Our guide to the epidural and other pain relief explains costs and side effects.

Cord blood: decide early

Cord blood, left in the placenta and cord after birth, is rich in blood stem cells that can treat some cancers, immune problems and genetic disorders, KKH says. Normally it's thrown away with the placenta. You can donate it to the Singapore Cord Blood Bank, store it for your family through the bank's community banking, or use a private bank. Tell your doctor early.

KKH's timeline for 35 to 37 weeks also suggests starting to think about birth control after the birth.

Your baby at 35 weeks

Your baby is growing fast and settling head-down, HealthXchange says. Most of the work now is gaining weight.

What's due in Singapore at 35 weeks

When to go to the hospital

Regular contractions, leaking fluid, bleeding, fewer movements or pre-eclampsia signs need the hospital now.

Where to go: at KKH, if you're 22 weeks or more with leaking fluid, bleeding or signs of labour, head directly to the Delivery Suite on Level 2 of the Women's Tower. NUH's Delivery Suite is Ward 22, Level 2 of the Main Building. Other hospitals have their own, so find out where yours is before you need it.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I test positive for GBS?

KKH says it may mean you're given antibiotics during labour after your water bag breaks.

When should I decide on an epidural?

Before labour if you can. KKH says an epidural needs an anaesthetist and preparation, so plan for it even if you might not use it.

Is pethidine safe for my baby?

KKH says the pain relief options are considered safe for babies, but pethidine can't be given too close to delivery because it can cause drowsiness and breathing problems, which are easily reversed.

35 weeks pregnant is how many months?

About eight months, counted from the first day of your last period.

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