At 38 weeks pregnant, I was so ready to meet my baby, but also feeling a bit like a pressure cooker ready to explode. I’d made it through almost nine months of growing a little human, and now the discomfort seemed to be at its peak. My body ached, I was tired all the time, and sleep — well, let’s just say it was hard to come by. I remember pacing around my house, trying to keep busy, but also feeling that anticipation building. Every little cramp or ache made me wonder, Is this it? Is labor coming soon?
If you’re 38 weeks pregnant, I’m sure you’re feeling a lot of these same things. The end is in sight, and while you’re excited to meet your little one, your body is tired, and every day brings new sensations. I’ve been there, mama! But don’t worry — this post is here to guide you through these last few weeks with practical tips and support. We’ll talk about what’s going on with your body, how to stay comfortable, and what to expect as you approach your baby’s big debut.
Let’s get you prepared and feeling confident as you finish this journey strong.
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1. Your Baby’s Development at 38 Weeks Pregnant
At 38 weeks pregnant, your baby is nearly full-term and ready to meet the world! Here’s what’s happening in your baby’s development:
Size and Weight
Your baby is about the size of a canary melon or a head of Swiss chard, weighing around 6.5 to 7 pounds, and measuring about 19 to 20 inches long. Of course, every baby is different, so your little one may be a little bigger or smaller, but they’re getting close to their birth weight!
Brain Development
Your baby’s brain is continuing to mature at this stage, fine-tuning critical functions like breathing and digestion. This means your little one’s nervous system is nearly ready to handle life outside the womb.
Lung Strength
By 38 weeks, your baby’s lungs are fully developed and producing more surfactant. Surfactant helps keep the air sacs in the lungs open, making it easier for your baby to breathe once they’re born.
Baby’s Position
Most babies at this stage are in the optimal head-down position, also known as “lightening” or “dropping.” This means they’re getting ready for labor, though it may still take a little time. You might feel more pressure on your bladder as the baby moves lower into the pelvis, but the upside is that you can breathe a little easier!
Shedding Hair and Vernix
Your baby’s soft lanugo (the fine, downy hair) and the protective coating of vernix caseosa on their skin are mostly gone by now. This coating, which is swallowed by your baby, will turn into their first bowel movement (meconium).
2. What to Expect at 38 Weeks Pregnant?
As you approach the final stretch of pregnancy, there are some common symptoms that you’ll likely experience. It’s a mixed bag of discomfort, anticipation, and excitement — and a lot of new things you’ll need to manage. Here’s what you can expect:
Pelvic Pressure and “Lightning Crotch”
As your baby’s head moves lower into your pelvis, you may feel more pressure down there. This can make walking uncomfortable, and you may experience sharp, shooting pains, often referred to as “lightning crotch.” I remember feeling like I was going to fall over when these pains hit. It’s uncomfortable but totally normal!
Braxton Hicks Contractions
These practice contractions may become more frequent and intense as you get closer to labor. Unlike true labor contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular and tend to subside if you change positions or drink water. If you’re unsure whether it’s real labor, time them to see if they become more regular and stronger. But don’t worry if you’re still experiencing them — it’s just your body preparing.
Increased Vaginal Discharge and Loss of Mucus Plug
At 38 weeks, your body is preparing for birth, and that means more vaginal discharge. You may also notice the loss of your mucus plug, which is thick and yellowish or blood-tinged. Losing the mucus plug doesn’t mean labor is imminent, but it’s one of the many signs your body is getting ready.
Swelling (Edema)
Swelling in your hands, feet, and ankles is common. This happens because of fluid retention as your body works hard to support the baby. To manage this, try elevating your feet and staying hydrated. I found that taking a few minutes during the day to rest with my feet up made a huge difference in how much swelling I experienced.
Fatigue and Insomnia
It’s totally normal to feel drained at 38 weeks pregnant. Between the physical discomfort and the excitement of meeting your baby, sleep can be elusive. Try to use pillows for support and avoid drinking too many fluids before bed to limit bathroom trips. A warm bath or some light reading can also help you unwind.
Nesting Instinct
A sudden surge of energy can hit you around this time. This nesting instinct might make you want to clean, organize, and prepare everything for your baby’s arrival. While it’s great to get things ready, pace yourself! Overexerting yourself could leave you exhausted when you really need your energy.
3. Tips for Staying Comfortable at 38 Weeks Pregnant
By now, your body has been through a lot, and staying comfortable can feel like a challenge. Here are some tips that helped me during my 38th week of pregnancy:
Use a Pregnancy Pillow for Support
Sleeping at 38 weeks pregnant can be tough, but a pregnancy pillow can make a world of difference. It supports your belly and relieves pressure on your hips and back. I would recommend getting a U-shaped pillow — it was a game-changer for me!
Stay Hydrated
Water retention can make swelling worse, but staying hydrated helps your body flush out excess fluids. Plus, drinking water helps with digestion, energy levels, and preventing contractions from becoming too intense. I kept a water bottle with me all day to stay on track.
Gentle Exercise
If you’re feeling up to it, gentle exercise like walking or prenatal yoga can help relieve pressure and keep your body moving. A simple walk around the block in the evening helped me feel a little more comfortable and kept my mind relaxed. Just make sure to listen to your body and take it easy.
Rest and Elevate Your Feet
Rest is key at 38 weeks pregnant. Between the fatigue, pelvic pressure, and back pain, your body needs rest more than ever. Take naps when you can, and don’t hesitate to elevate your feet to reduce swelling. Even 10 minutes of putting your feet up made a noticeable difference for me!
Monitor Baby’s Movements
At this stage, your baby has less room to move, but you should still feel regular movement. Keep track of their movements, and if you notice any decrease or absence of movement, call your doctor immediately. I kept a log of my baby’s kicks, which gave me peace of mind.
4. What to Do at 38 Weeks Pregnant?
With labor around the corner, there are a few things you can do to prepare and stay on top of your health and baby’s well-being. Here’s your checklist for 38 weeks:
Start Weekly Checkups
Your doctor will likely want to see you weekly from now until your baby arrives. These visits help monitor your progress and ensure everything is on track. I found that the weekly checkups kept me feeling more confident and informed as I got closer to my due date.
Group B Strep Test
At 38 weeks, you’ll likely undergo a Group B strep test. This simple swab checks for a type of bacteria that could be passed to your baby during birth. If you test positive, you’ll receive antibiotics during labor to help protect your baby.
Pack Your Hospital Bag
If you haven’t already, it’s time to pack your hospital bag. Make sure you have everything you’ll need for yourself, your partner, and your baby. Double-check that your car seat is installed and ready to go — it’s one less thing to stress about when the time comes!
Review Your Birth Plan
It’s a great time to revisit your birth plan and go over it with your healthcare provider. Make sure you’re on the same page about your preferences, pain management, and any last-minute questions or changes you might have.
Prepare Your Home
Finish up the baby’s nursery, stock up on diapers and baby essentials, and prepare your home for those first few days after birth. You’ll be grateful to have everything set up and ready to go when the baby arrives.
5. Expert Insight : What the Experts Say?
According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), babies born at 38 weeks are considered “early term.” While most major organs are developed, they may continue maturing over the next couple of weeks. The good news is that by 38 weeks, your baby is almost ready for the world, and any extra time spent in the womb will only help them develop further.
6. Wrapping Up with Love & Support
Mama, you’re doing such an amazing job. I know the final weeks of pregnancy can feel like a whirlwind of emotions and physical discomfort, but just know that you’re so close to meeting your baby! These last few days might feel like a marathon, but they’re also the final stretch of an incredible journey.
Remember to take care of yourself, ask for help when you need it, and lean on your support system. You’ve got this, and your baby will be in your arms before you know it!
What’s been your biggest challenge at 38 weeks pregnant? Share your experiences in the comments below — I’d love to hear from you! And don’t forget to subscribe for more tips and support as you prepare for your baby’s arrival. You’re almost there, mama!