Welcome to the week-by-week guide for expecting parents! As you enter week 37 of your pregnancy journey, there’s a wealth of information to explore about your body, your baby’s development, and what to anticipate in the coming days.
Your Body at Week 37
Feeling Uncomfortable?
You’re in the final stretch, and let’s be honest—it’s not the coziest time. Many expectant mothers at 37 weeks oscillate between fatigue and bursts of nervous energy. Prioritize rest now; all that last-minute shopping can easily be done online while you’re lounging on the couch. When labor begins, you’ll want to harness as much strength and energy as possible. Sleep might remain elusive as finding a comfortable position becomes increasingly difficult, but make an effort to relax. Future you will appreciate the downtime.
Pregnancy Brain & Mood Swings
By now, you’re likely familiar with “pregnancy brain”—that charming mix of foggy thinking and forgetfulness that tends to peak in the third trimester. While this can be annoying, especially when you’re trying to prepare for your baby’s arrival, remember that it’s perfectly normal. You’ll soon return to your sharp self!
Your Baby at Week 37
At this point, your little one is roughly the size of a tray of lasagna, weighing around 6.5 pounds and measuring about 19 inches in length. Although your baby is officially considered “full-term,” it’s best for them to stay put a little longer. If they haven’t assumed the head-down position yet, it’s a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider about options to encourage them to turn and avoid a breech delivery.
Your baby is hitting some exciting milestones in the womb. Their facial muscles are now fully developed, so get ready for some adorable smiles and expressions (after labor, of course). Plus, their lungs are primed and ready to take in air. Inside the womb, they’re busy blinking, moving side to side, inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid, and even sucking their thumb.
Your Symptoms and Health at Week 37
Cervical Changes
Although you might still have a few weeks until labor, your body is gearing up for the big event. This means your cervix will begin to dilate and efface. Throughout your pregnancy, a mucus plug has been blocking the cervix to keep bacteria at bay. At week 37, your body may pass this plug, signaling that dilation is in progress. Don’t interpret this as an immediate call to the hospital; it could still be days or weeks before you give birth.
False Labor
You might have already encountered Braxton Hicks contractions—those practice contractions that happen before true labor. This week, you may experience “false labor,” which can feel surprisingly similar to real labor, often with painful contractions that come at irregular intervals. A good trick to differentiate between false labor and actual labor is to change positions. If the cramps persist, you might be entering labor. But if they ease up when you lie down, it’s likely just false labor. Always feel free to reach out to your doctor with any concerns.
Pelvic Pain
As your baby’s head descends into your pelvis, you may feel pressure in your hips, pelvis, and bladder, leading to discomfort. This pain is common in the last month of pregnancy, with around 80 percent of women experiencing it. While complete relief may not be possible, you might find that a pregnancy sling or belt can help alleviate some of the pressure.
For Those Expecting Twins
If you’re pregnant with twins, week 37 may mark either the end of your pregnancy or the onset of delivery. Twins often arrive two to four weeks earlier than singletons, either due to early contractions or medical advice for safety. It’s essential to rest as much as possible during this time. When labor begins, the cervix will start to dilate and efface, preparing for the arrival of your little ones. When your water breaks, it can feel like a trickle or a gush, and it’s crucial to differentiate this from a simple urine leak. Once you’re sure your water has broken, note the time and begin timing contractions.
As overwhelming as this journey can feel, remember that your medical team will be there to guide you every step of the way. You’re almost there—just one final push to meet your precious babies!
For more insights into your pregnancy journey, check out our other posts like this one on home insemination and resources on IVF for helpful information on fertility. You can also explore this guide for a deeper dive into your fertility journey.
Summary
At 37 weeks pregnant, your baby is the size of a tray of lasagna and is nearing full-term status. Your body is preparing for labor, and you may experience symptoms like cervical changes, false labor, and pelvic pain. It’s important to prioritize rest and stay in touch with your healthcare provider as you approach this exciting milestone.
Keyphrase: 37 weeks pregnant
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