Intense nesting instinct, more frequent Braxton Hicks, and labor signs approaching.
You’re 38 weeks pregnant! Your baby is fully developed and could arrive any day now. With only two weeks until your due date, your body is showing signs of early labor, and your baby is finishing last-minute preparations for birth.
Let’s explore your baby’s development, changes in your body, and how to manage symptoms at 38 weeks pregnant.
What’s Happening to Your Baby?
At 38 weeks, your baby is about the size of a winter melon (34-38 cm or 14-15.5 inches long, head to toe) and weighs around 3,000-3,200 grams (6.6-7.5 lbs). Your little one is considered full-term and just waiting for birth!
Major Developments This Week:
Baby is Ready for Life Outside! – All major organs are fully developed, including the lungs and brain.
Lanugo is Almost Gone! – The fine hair covering baby’s body is shedding, but some may still be present at birth.
Vernix Caseosa is Shedding! – This white, waxy coating that protected baby’s skin is peeling away.
Movements May Slow Down! – Less space means baby’s movements might feel more like rolling and stretching instead of kicks.
Baby’s Head May Be Engaged! – If your baby has “dropped,” their head is sitting low in your pelvis, preparing for birth.
Final Weight Gain is Happening! – Baby is still putting on a little fat each day for warmth after birth.
Meconium (First Poop) is Forming! – Baby’s intestines are filling with meconium, their first bowel movement.
What’s Happening to Your Body?
At 38 weeks pregnant, you may experience stronger pregnancy symptoms, early labor signs, and more discomfort.
Common Symptoms at 38 Weeks Pregnant:
Feeling Baby’s Movements Regularly! – Though baby has less space, you should still feel daily movements.
Bigger Baby Bump! – Your uterus is pushing against your ribs, but if baby has dropped, you may feel relief.
Back Pain & Pelvic Pressure – As baby moves lower, pelvic discomfort and back pain may increase.
Braxton Hicks Contractions – Practice contractions may become more frequent and intense.
Lightning Crotch! – Sharp, shooting pains in the pelvis due to baby’s head pressing on nerves.
Frequent Urination – Baby’s head pressing on your bladder means more bathroom trips.
Increased Vaginal Discharge – Your body is preparing for labor, and discharge may become thicker or more mucus-like.
Loss of Mucus Plug (“Bloody Show”) – You may notice a thick, jelly-like discharge, possibly tinged with blood, as your cervix prepares for labor.
Diarrhea or Loose Stools – Your body may clear itself out before labor.
Swelling in Feet & Ankles (Edema) – Fluid retention may cause mild swelling, especially after standing.
Leaky Breasts (Colostrum Production) – Your body is ready for breastfeeding.
Fatigue & Trouble Sleeping – Finding a comfortable sleep position is even harder.
Signs That Labor is Approaching
At 38 weeks, your body may start giving stronger signs that labor is near. Here’s what to watch for:
Signs That Labor is Close:
Baby Has “Dropped” (Lightening) – Your belly may look lower, and you may feel less pressure on your ribs.
More Frequent & Stronger Braxton Hicks Contractions – They may start feeling like real contractions.
Loss of Mucus Plug (“Bloody Show”) – A thick, jelly-like discharge with blood streaks may indicate labor is approaching.
Diarrhea or Loose Stools – Many women experience a “clear-out” before labor begins.
Water Breaking – A gush or slow trickle of amniotic fluid means labor is starting soon.
Cramping or Lower Back Pain – Dull cramps and back pain may be early signs of labor.
How to Cope with Week 38 Pregnancy Symptoms
1. Tracking Baby’s Movements
Baby should move at least 10 times in 2 hours.
If movements slow down significantly, drink cold water or gently poke your belly.
Contact your doctor if you notice decreased movement.
2. Easing Back Pain & Pelvic Pressure
Use a pregnancy pillow for support.
Wear a belly support band to relieve strain.
Do gentle prenatal yoga or stretches.
3. Managing Braxton Hicks Contractions
Stay hydrated – dehydration can trigger contractions.
Change positions – walking or resting may help.
If contractions become painful or regular, contact your doctor.
4. Relieving Shortness of Breath
Sit and stand up straight to give your lungs more space.
Take slow, deep breaths and avoid overexertion.
Sleep propped up with pillows for better airflow.
5. Reducing Swelling in Feet & Ankles
Elevate your feet when sitting or lying down.
Wear compression socks to improve circulation.
Drink plenty of water to flush out excess fluids.
6. Soothing Heartburn & Indigestion
Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
Avoid spicy, greasy, and acidic foods.
Don’t lie down immediately after eating.
7. Preparing for Labor & Hospital Stay
Pack your hospital bag with essentials (clothes, toiletries, baby outfits, documents).
Review your birth plan with your doctor.
Discuss pain management options.
What Should You Be Doing in Week 38?
Since you’re only 2 weeks from your due date, here’s what to focus on this week:
1. Keep Attending Weekly Prenatal Appointments
Your doctor may check your cervix for dilation and effacement.
Confirm baby’s position (head-down, breech, etc.).
2. Start Kick Counting Daily
Monitor baby’s movements at the same time each day.
If movements decrease significantly, contact your doctor.
3. Finalize Your Birth Plan
Review labor preferences (epidural, natural, C-section, etc.).
Discuss hospital or birthing center protocols.
4. Install the Car Seat
Most hospitals require a properly installed car seat before discharge.
5. Get Your Home Ready for Baby
Wash baby clothes and set up the nursery.
Stock up on postpartum care essentials (pads, nursing bras, etc.).
6. Rest as Much as Possible
Your body is working hard—take naps when needed.
Final Thoughts
You’re 38 weeks pregnant and almost at the finish line! Your baby is fully developed, gaining weight, and ready for birth. Symptoms like back pain, pelvic pressure, and fatigue may be intense, but you’re doing an amazing job!
