You’re sitting on the couch, your belly is huge, and suddenly it hits you: In just a few weeks, your baby will be here. You may have already heard about birth preparation courses—or friends rave about them. But is it too late at 35 weeks? Don’t worry: Now is actually the ideal time for compact, intensive courses that will teach you exactly what you really need.

Watercolor scene of a pregnant woman in her late thirties sitting cross-legged on a yoga mat in a sunlit studio with large windows, warm afternoon light streaming in, she is practicing breathing exercises with eyes gently closed, hands resting on her round belly, surrounded by soft cushions in muted earth tones, potted plants on windowsills, peaceful and focused atmosphere, gentle shadows creating depth, warm ochre and sage green palette, intimate close-up perspective at eye level, shallow depth of field emphasizing her serene expression

Why the 35th Week is the Perfect Time

Many classic birth preparation courses start between the 25th and 30th week of pregnancy—but if you’re just now getting into it, you’re by no means too late. The 35th week is perfect for compact intensive courses that convey the essentials in a short time.

Why right now? You still have enough time to practice breathing exercises at home and truly internalize the techniques—but you're close enough that everything becomes very concrete and real. This greatly increases your motivation.

  • Compact weekend courses starting from weeks 30 to 35 are perfect for late starters
  • You can practice what you've learned for another 4–5 weeks before it begins
  • Birth feels real—you absorb the content differently
  • Your partner can usually participate better than in long evening courses

These 5 Types of Courses Will Really Help You

1. Compact Crash Courses for Couples

These intensive courses often take place over a weekend (e.g., Saturday 2 hours, Sunday 4 hours) and teach you everything essential about childbirth, the postpartum period, and pain management. You will learn birth-preparation measures, breathing techniques, and how to work as a team through labor together with your partner.

Watercolor illustration of a diverse couple in a birthing preparation class, African woman and European man sitting together on floor mats, midwife demonstrating breathing technique in background, bright modern classroom with anatomical charts on walls, morning light from side windows, warm and encouraging atmosphere, medium shot from slightly elevated angle, natural colors with soft blues and warm skin tones, other couples visible in soft focus, sense of community and learning

Perfect for you if: You have little time, want your partner to be involved, and need a quick overview.

2. Pregnancy Yoga - Connecting Body and Mind

Yoga not only affects your body but also relaxes your mind. In special pregnancy yoga classes, you learn breathing techniques, pelvic floor exercises, and positions that can help during labor. Many women report feeling a deeper connection to their baby through yoga.

Perfect for you if: You are seeking relaxation, want to stay active, and prefer a gentle approach.

3. Pilates for Pregnant Women - Strength for Birth

Pilates is a perfect exercise during pregnancy for birth preparation. You specifically strengthen your back, abdomen, and pelvic floor muscles—exactly the areas you need during childbirth. The controlled movements also help you become more aware of your body.

Watercolor scene showing pregnant Asian woman on exercise ball in pilates studio, wearing comfortable workout clothes, performing gentle pelvic tilts, instructor beside her demonstrating posture, studio has large mirrors and soft natural light from frosted windows, calming atmosphere with lavender and cream tones, wide angle view capturing spacious room, deep depth of field, empowering and focused mood

Perfect for you if: You enjoy being active, want to strengthen your muscles, and prefer a body-focused approach.

4. Shiatsu and Acupressure - Releasing Blockages

Shiatsu releases tensions and blockages through stretching, massage, and gentle pressure. This Eastern technique can help you relieve tension, reduce fears and harmonize your energy flow. Some courses even teach your partner techniques he can use during labor.

Perfect for you if: You are open to alternative methods, suffer from tension, or seek a holistic approach.

5. Hypnobirthing - Birth Without Fear

Hypnobirthing combines self-hypnosis, visualization, and breathing techniques to reduce fear and pain. You learn to trust your body and see childbirth as a natural process. Many women report calmer, more self-determined births.

Perfect for you if: You have fears about childbirth, prefer a mental approach, or aim for as natural a birth as possible.

Watercolor illustration showing five distinct panels arranged like a visual guide, each panel represents a different birth preparation method: first panel shows couple practicing breathing, second shows woman in yoga tree pose, third depicts pilates ball exercise, fourth illustrates shiatsu pressure points on back, fifth shows peaceful hypnobirthing meditation, soft pastel color palette with gentle watercolor washes, educational poster style, even lighting, organized composition with subtle arrows connecting panels, informative and calming aesthetic

What Will You Learn in Birth Preparation Courses?

Regardless of which course you choose, most cover these central topics—adjusted to their specific focus:

  • Birth process: Contractions, stages of labor, what happens in the body
  • Breathing techniques: How to relieve pain and maintain control through breathing
  • Pain management: Positions, movement, massage, medical options
  • Postpartum period: The first weeks with the baby, healing, emotional rollercoaster
  • Breastfeeding and infant care: Basics for the first time
  • Partner's role: How your partner can support you
  • Practical information: Insurance, workplace rights, pediatrician choice

How to Find the Right Course for You

With so many options, choosing can be difficult. Listen to your gut feeling—literally. What appeals to you? Are you more sporty or looking for relaxation? Do you want your partner to be there or prefer to be with women only?

Watercolor scene of pregnant Portuguese woman sitting at kitchen table in late afternoon, warm golden hour light through window, she is looking at laptop screen showing online course options, notebook and herbal tea beside her, cozy domestic setting with plants on windowsill, thoughtful expression, warm amber and soft green color palette, intimate over-the-shoulder perspective, shallow depth of field focusing on her face, peaceful decision-making moment

Practical tips for your decision:

  • Ask your midwife for recommendations in your area
  • Read reviews from other mothers online or in local forums
  • Try a trial class, if possible
  • Check the qualifications of the instructor (midwife, certified trainer)
  • Consider the group size—smaller groups allow for more individual attention
  • Keep practical factors in mind like travel, timing, costs

Frequently Asked Questions About Birth Preparation Courses at 35 Weeks Pregnant

Is it too late for a course at 35 weeks?
No, not at all! Compact crash courses are specifically designed for this time. You still have 4–5 weeks to practice what you’ve learned.

Does my partner have to come?
It depends on the course. Partner classes are great for learning together, but all-women classes often offer more space for intimate topics. Decide based on your needs.

Does health insurance cover the costs?
Many basic insurances cover part of the costs for birth preparation courses led by midwives. Check your policy or ask your insurance directly.

Can I combine several types of courses?
Absolutely! Many women attend a basic crash course and complement it with yoga or hypnobirthing. Just make sure not to overwhelm yourself.

What if my baby comes early?
Even if you only manage part of the course, it’s valuable. You usually learn the essential breathing techniques in the first hours. Many courses also offer online materials that you can catch up on later.

Your Next Step

Now, at 35 weeks pregnant, is the perfect moment to take action. Pick a course this week and sign up. Even if you think it’s too late—it’s never too late to prepare and gain confidence in yourself and your body.

Childbirth is one of the most intense experiences of your life. With the right preparation, you will approach this special moment empowered, informed, and confident. You can do this—and you don't have to do it alone.