Introduction

Congratulations! At 38 weeks, you’re almost at the finish line of your pregnancy journey. Your baby is fully developed and ready to meet you, though they might still take their time to arrive.

This stage can be both exciting and challenging as you prepare for labor while managing the physical and emotional changes of late pregnancy.

Here’s everything you need to know about the 38th week, from baby development to self-care tips, to keep you ready and confident for the big day.

Baby’s Development at 38 Weeks

Your baby is now full-term and doing final preparations to thrive outside the womb. Here’s what’s happening this week.

1.Size and Weight

By 38 weeks, your baby is about the size of a small watermelon or pumpkin, weighing approximately 6-7 pounds and measuring around 19-20 inches in length.

2.Final Developmental Stages

Lungs and Organs: The lungs are fully mature, and all other organs are functioning perfectly, making your baby ready to breathe, eat, and regulate body functions after birth.

Fat Stores: The baby continues to gain fat under their skin, which will help them maintain body temperature and keep warm once born.

Hair and Nails: Many babies at this stage have head hair and fingernails that may even extend beyond their tiny fingertips.

Brain Growth: Brain development is still ongoing, with neurons and connections forming to support life outside the womb.

3.Movement
While your baby doesn’t have much room to move in the womb, you should still feel shifts, rolls, and kicks. If you notice a significant reduction in movements, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

4.Positioning
Most babies are in the head-down position by now, ideal for a vaginal delivery. If your baby is still in a breech position, your doctor might recommend strategies such as an external cephalic version (ECV) to encourage them to turn.

Your body is completing its final preparations for delivery. At 38 weeks, expect to experience the following changes.

1.Physical Changes

Pelvic Pressure: With your baby dropping lower into the pelvis (lightening), you may feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen and hips. This can make walking or sitting more uncomfortable.

Bladder Sensitivity: The baby’s position may lead to more frequent trips to the bathroom as they put additional pressure on your bladder.

Braxton Hicks Contractions: These “practice” contractions may become more noticeable. They are often irregular and go away with rest, unlike true labor contractions.

Cervical Effacement and Dilation: Your cervix may begin to thin, soften, and open (dilate) in preparation for labor, though this process varies for everyone.

Backaches and Cramps: You might feel mild cramping or an aching lower back as your body prepares for childbirth.

2.Emotional and Mental Changes

It’s perfectly normal to feel a mix of emotions at 38 weeks—excitement about meeting your baby soon, anxiety about labor, and perhaps even impatience as the days feel longer. Here are common feelings and behaviors at this stage:

Nesting Instinct: Many women experience a sudden burst of energy and an urge to clean or organize things in preparation for the baby.

Fatigue: Your body is working hard, so occasional bouts of tiredness are expected. Listen to your body and rest when needed.

At 38 weeks, labor could begin at any time, or it could still be a few weeks away. Keeping an eye out for signs of labor ensures you’re ready when the time comes.

• Regular Contractions
  True labor contractions are more intense than Braxton Hicks. They occur at regular intervals, progressively last longer, and grow stronger over time.
• Bloody Show
  You might notice a pinkish or brownish mucus discharge, often referred to as the “bloody show.” This is a sign of cervical changes and may indicate labor is approaching.
• Water Breaking
  A sudden gush or steady trickle of fluid from your vagina may mean that your amniotic sac has ruptured. This is a strong indicator that labor is beginning, and you should reach out to your doctor or midwife immediately.
• Lower Back Pain
  Intense, radiating back pain that doesn’t subside could indicate early labor contractions, especially if it occurs with other signs.

Now is the time to finalize preparations and ensure you’re ready for the baby’s arrival.

1. Finalize Your Birth Plan

Review your birth plan with your healthcare provider, considering your preferences for pain management, delivery procedures, and who will accompany you to the delivery room.

2. Double-Check Your Hospital Bag

Pack items such as comfortable clothes, toiletries, snacks, phone chargers, and essentials for the baby like diapers and blankets. Don’t forget important documents like your ID and insurance card.

3. Make Transportation Plans

Ensure you have a clear plan for getting to the hospital when labor begins. Arrange childcare if you have older children.

4. Stay Active, But Rest Too

Light activities like walking can help your body prepare for labor. Balance these with plenty of rest to conserve energy.

5. Monitor Baby Movements

Baby movements may feel different now due to limited space, but you should still feel noticeable shifts. If the movements decrease significantly, contact your healthcare provider.

Self-Care Tips at 38 Weeks

Caring for yourself is essential in these final days of pregnancy.

1.Ease Discomfort

Use a pregnancy pillow to support your body while resting.

Take a warm bath or ask your partner for a gentle massage to relieve muscle tension.

Try prenatal yoga or stretching exercises for added relief.

2.Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Keep yourself hydrated to prevent dehydration and false labor contractions.

Eat smaller, nutrient-rich meals throughout the day to stay energized. Focus on foods rich in iron, calcium, and protein.

3.Relax and Breathe

Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness to manage any anxiety.

Listen to calming music or spend time doing things that make you happy, like reading or chatting with loved ones.

It’s important to know when to seek medical attention during this week of pregnancy. Call your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Regular, painful contractions that become closer together over time.
• Your water breaks (whether it’s a gush or a trickle).
• Vaginal bleeding or heavy discharge.
• Severe swelling in the hands, face, or feet (a possible sign of preeclampsia).
• Vision changes, severe headaches, or sudden pain in your abdomen.
• A significant decrease in your baby’s movements.

  Prepare for a safe and confident delivery with Dr. Supriya Puranik, the best pregnancy doctor in Pune. Schedule your consultation today!

You’ve made it to the 38th week, an incredible milestone in your pregnancy. While the waiting game may feel long, remember your body is doing exactly what it’s meant to do. Trust in the process and stay as rested and prepared as possible.

Whether labor begins today or in a week, know that you’re ready to meet your little one. For any doubts or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider—they’re here to support you every step of the way.

If you’re seeking expert care during these final weeks, consult Dr. Supriya Puranik, one of the most trusted pregnancy doctors in Pune, for personalized guidance and support.

Soon enough, you’ll be holding your baby in your arms. Take it one day at a time, and know you’re closer than ever to the most magical moment of your life. You’ve got this!

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• About Author

  Dr. Supriya Puranik

  Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist

Dr. Supriya Puranik, a renowned gynaecologist and infertility expert, leads the IVF & Gynaecology department at Sahyadri Hospitals Momstory in Shivaji Nagar, Pune. She is committed to helping couples overcome infertility challenges.