Congratulations on reaching the 38th week of pregnancy! You’re now in the final stretch of your journey, and your baby is fully developed and ready for birth. While this is an exciting time, it can also be filled with uncertainty as you prepare for labor.

This guide will walk you through your baby’s development, the physical and emotional changes you may experience, signs of labor, and practical tips to ensure you’re ready for the big day.

Baby’s Development at 38 Weeks

At 38 weeks, your baby is nearing full-term and getting ready for life outside the womb. Here’s what’s happening this week:

Size and Weight

• Size: Your baby is roughly the size of a small watermelon or pumpkin, measuring around 19 to 20 inches in length.
• Weight: The baby weighs between 6 and 7 pounds, although this can vary.

Key Developments

• Lung and Organ Maturity: The lungs are fully mature and capable of supporting breathing after birth.
• Fat Stores: Fat is accumulating under the skin, helping the baby regulate body temperature once they’re born.
• Hair and Nails: Many babies at this stage have head hair, and their fingernails may even extend beyond their tiny fingertips.
• Brain Growth: Your baby’s brain is still developing, forming essential connections to support vital functions like breathing and feeding.

Movement

Although space is limited in the womb, you should still feel your baby’s movements, including shifts, rolls, and kicks. If you notice a significant reduction in movements, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Positioning

By 38 weeks, most babies have moved into the head-down position, which is ideal for a vaginal delivery. If your baby is still breech, your doctor may recommend techniques like an external cephalic version (ECV) to encourage turning.

Maternal Symptoms and Changes

Your body is making the final preparations for labor and delivery. Here’s what you can expect at this stage:

Physical Changes

• Pelvic Pressure: As your baby drops lower into your pelvis (lightening), you may feel increased pressure in your abdomen and groin, making walking or sitting uncomfortable.
• Bladder Sensitivity: With increased pressure on your bladder, you’ll likely make more trips to the bathroom.
• Braxton Hicks Contractions: These irregular “practice” contractions may become more noticeable but will go away with rest.
• Cervical Effacement and Dilation: Your cervix may begin to soften, thin, and open, preparing for labor.
• Backaches and Cramps: Mild cramping or aching in the lower back is common as your body readies itself for childbirth.

Emotional Changes

It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions as you near labor. While excitement about meeting your baby builds, some anxiety and impatience may arise. A sudden burst of energy (nesting) to prepare your home is common.

Signs of Labor to Watch For

Labor could begin anytime now, so it’s important to recognize the signs:

1.Regular Contractions

True labor contractions are more intense, regular, and grow stronger over time. Unlike Braxton Hicks, they don’t go away with rest.

2.Loss of the Mucus Plug

Losing the mucus plug (a jelly-like substance that seals the cervix) can indicate that labor is near, though it doesn’t always mean it will begin immediately.

3.Water Breaking

A sudden gush or slow trickle of fluid from your vagina might indicate that your amniotic sac has ruptured, signaling the start of labor. Contact your doctor right away.

4.Bloody Show

A pinkish or brownish discharge (bloody show) can indicate cervical changes and that labor may be approaching.

Things to Do at 38 Weeks

Now is the time to finalize your preparations:

1.Finalize Your Birth Plan

Review your birth preferences with your doctor, including pain management options, delivery positions, and any special requests for the delivery room.

2.Double-Check Your Hospital Bag

Ensure you have everything packed, including comfortable clothes, toiletries, snacks, baby clothes, diapers, and important documents like your ID and insurance card.

3.Make Transportation Plans

Arrange transportation to the hospital once labor begins. If you have other children, make arrangements for their care.

4.Stay Active, But Rest Too

Engage in light activities like walking or prenatal yoga to help prepare your body for labor, but make sure to balance with plenty of rest.

5.Monitor Baby Movements

While movements may feel different due to limited space, you should still feel regular shifts. If movements significantly decrease, contact your doctor immediately.

Self-Care Tips at 38 Weeks

Take care of yourself during these final weeks of pregnancy:

1.Ease Discomfort

• Use a pregnancy pillow for support when resting.
• Try warm baths or ask your partner for a gentle massage to relieve tension.
• Gentle prenatal yoga or stretching exercises can provide relief from aches and pains.

2.Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

• Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, which can sometimes trigger false labor contractions.
• Eat smaller, nutrient-dense meals throughout the day to stay energized. Focus on foods rich in iron, calcium, and protein.

3.Relax and Breathe

• Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness to manage any anxiety.
• Listen to calming music or engage in activities that bring you joy, like reading or spending time with loved ones.

When to Contact Your Doctor

It’s essential to reach out to your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

• Severe or Persistent Pain: Abdominal pain or back pain that doesn’t subside.
• Fluid Leakage or Gush: If your water breaks, whether it’s a gush or trickle of fluid.
• Vaginal Bleeding or Heavy Discharge: Contact your doctor if you notice any unusual bleeding.
• Severe Swelling: Swelling in your hands, face, or feet could be a sign of preeclampsia.
• Decreased Baby Movements: A significant reduction in movements should be evaluated by your doctor.
• Vision Changes: Blurry vision or seeing spots could indicate preeclampsia.

Consult Dr. Namrata Kachhara for Expert Pregnancy Care

Reaching the 38th week is an exciting milestone, and with just weeks to go, it’s essential to stay prepared and focused on your health and wellness. For expert prenatal care in Indore, trust Dr. Namrata Kachhara, the best gynecologist in Indore, to provide personalized guidance and support through these final weeks.

Schedule an appointment today to ensure you and your baby are fully prepared for a smooth and healthy delivery.