Week 38 of Pregnancy
Third trimester
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
Baby is
about the size of a leek
19.5 inches · 6.8 lbs
Baby this week
- •Lungs are fully mature and ready to breathe air
- •Settling into head-down position for birth
- •Practicing breathing movements and swallowing
- •Skin is smooth and less wrinkled as fat deposits increase
You this week
- •Increased Braxton-Hicks contractions, some becoming irregular but intense
- •Pelvic pressure and heaviness as baby drops lower
- •Frequent urination and possible urinary urgency
- •Difficulty sleeping due to discomfort and anticipation
- •Cervical changes that your provider may monitor
- •Possible bloody show or mucus plug loss
This week's tips
- •Stay alert for signs of labor—regular contractions, rupture of membranes, or vaginal bleeding—but don't panic about every symptom
- •Rest when you can; labor is physically demanding and sleep now will help
- •Keep your hospital bag packed and in an easily accessible location
- •Practice comfort measures you plan to use during labor: breathing techniques, positions, heat/cold therapy
- •Time contractions if they occur, but don't obsess; most aren't true labor yet
- •Eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated to maintain energy reserves
- •Take short walks if comfortable; movement can help with positioning and endurance
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
You're in the home stretch. Most babies arrive between weeks 38-40, though some take a bit longer. Your provider may discuss what happens if you go past your due date, including monitoring options and induction timelines.
Track your pregnancy on BringBaby
Join free to track your pregnancy week-by-week and find baby-friendly places to visit as baby grows.
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
More free tools
Looking for places to bring baby?
Explore BringBaby