Welcome to the week-by-week pregnancy guide from Home Insemination Kit! We’re here to provide you with all the insights on what to expect during your pregnancy journey, from weekly symptoms to your baby’s growth and everything in between. Let’s dive into what you can expect at 37 weeks pregnant.
Your Body at Week 37 of Pregnancy
As you approach the finish line, comfort might feel like a distant memory. At this stage, many moms-to-be experience a mix of fatigue and nervous excitement. It’s crucial to focus on resting now—those last-minute errands can certainly wait or even be done from your cozy couch. When labor begins, you’ll want to have plenty of energy stored up. Sleep may remain elusive as finding a comfortable position becomes increasingly challenging, but taking time to relax is essential—you’ll appreciate it later.
It’s also common to experience “pregnancy brain,” a phenomenon characterized by forgetfulness and a fuzzy head, especially in the third trimester. While it can be frustrating when you’re trying to prepare for your little one’s arrival, remember that this is entirely normal and will fade eventually.
Your Baby at Week 37
At this point, your baby is approximately the size of a tray of lasagna, weighing around 6.5 pounds and measuring about 19 inches. While your baby is now considered “full-term,” they should ideally stay put for a little longer. If they haven’t turned head-down yet, you might want to discuss options with your healthcare provider to facilitate this transition and avoid breech complications.
Your baby is reaching some exciting developmental milestones. Their facial muscles are fully developed, paving the way for those adorable smiles and expressions soon to come—after you navigate through labor, of course. Their lungs are also ready to function outside the womb, and they’re busy in there, blinking, shifting around, inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid, and even sucking their thumb.
Symptoms and Health at Week 37
Cervical Changes
Even though labor may still be a little way off, your body is preparing for the big day. Your cervix may begin to dilate and efface. Throughout your pregnancy, a mucus plug has been safeguarding your cervix, blocking bacteria from entering the uterus. Now, as you enter week 37, it’s normal for the mucus plug to pass, signaling that your cervix is starting to prepare for childbirth. Don’t rush to the hospital just yet; this process is gradual and could still take days or weeks.
False Labor
You might have had experiences with Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as “practice contractions,” which prepare your body for labor. At this stage, you may encounter something called false labor, which can feel quite convincing—often painful and unpredictable. Unlike true labor, where contractions come at regular intervals, false labor can be erratic. A good way to distinguish between the two is to change your position; if the discomfort eases, it’s likely just false labor.
Pelvic Pressure
As your baby descends lower into the pelvis, you might feel increased pressure in that area, leading to discomfort in your hips and bladder. This is a common experience for many women during the last month of pregnancy, with about 80% reporting pelvic pain. While you might not find complete relief, using a pregnancy support belt can help alleviate some pressure.
Expecting Twins?
If you’re carrying twins, week 37 might mark either the final week of your pregnancy or the week you give birth. Twins often arrive two to four weeks earlier than single babies, either due to the increased size of your bump triggering contractions sooner or your doctor’s decision for safety reasons. Resting is crucial during this time. You’ll likely notice dilation and effacement occurring as your body prepares for labor. When your water breaks, it can feel like a slow trickle or a sudden gush—be sure to note the time and start timing your contractions.
While this stage can be overwhelming, remember that your medical team will support you throughout the process. You’ve come this far—just one last push to meet your little ones!
For more insights, check out this link to another blog post on our site. Additionally, if you’re seeking authoritative information, visit this resource, which offers valuable information related to this journey, and explore this excellent guide on pregnancy.
Summary
At 37 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a tray of lasagna, signaling that you’re nearing the end of your pregnancy journey. With your body preparing for labor through cervical changes and experiencing a mix of symptoms, it’s important to focus on rest and self-care. As you navigate through potential false labor and pelvic discomfort, remember that your medical team is there for support.