Congratulations! You’ve reached the 38-week mark in your pregnancy, which means you’re now halfway through the ninth month. Your baby is growing rapidly and is close to making an appearance. Here’s what you can anticipate this week.
Your Baby’s Development at 38 Weeks
- Eyes Open for Business: Your baby’s eyes may be blue, gray, or brown right now, but exposure to light could alter their final color. You’ll discover their true hue by the time they hit the one-year milestone.
- Shedding the Lanugo: The fine hair known as lanugo, which has kept your little one warm, is now falling away as they prepare for delivery.
- Ready to Make Noise: The lungs are fully developed, and your baby’s vocal cords are ready, signaling that they’re prepared to communicate with the world through their first cries.
What’s Happening with You
As you approach the final weeks of pregnancy, you may notice various physical changes. Be on the lookout for any signs that labor may be approaching, such as the loss of your mucus plug or any light spotting, known as a bloody show.
A Quick Check-in: How Big is Your Baby?
At this stage, your baby is likely weighing around 7 pounds and measuring about 20 inches long—similar in size to a mini watermelon.
Connecting with Others
If you’re looking for community support, consider joining the Make a Mom Facebook group. It’s a great resource for those considering at-home insemination, like the service offered by Make a Mom, which provides reusable options that can ease your journey. Curious about how this process works? Check out how at-home insemination works to learn more.
If you’re exploring options for conception, you may find interest in how to elevate your family dynamic, perhaps by reading about how to elevate your son to big brother status.
For those looking to understand more about the success rates of intrauterine insemination (IUI), WebMD provides valuable insights.
And for additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination, make sure to visit Modern Family Blog.
Summary
At 38 weeks pregnant, you’re nearing the finish line! Your baby is developing well, with significant changes in lung and eye development. As you prepare for the arrival, stay informed and connected with supportive communities and resources.