Pregnancy Week 37

What to Expect

Congratulations! You’ve officially reached full-term pregnancy! Your baby can now arrive any day from now. Your body is making the final preparations for labor, and your little one is ready to enter the world. It’s time to finalize all arrangements and stay alert for signs of labor.

Exciting News!

At 37 weeks, your baby is officially full-term, and you could go into labor anytime now. Your body is doing a fantastic job, and soon you’ll be holding your baby in your arms. Get ready, stay strong, and look forward to the most precious moment of your life.

Mom’s Health Concerns
  • Weight gain: You may have gained 16-22 kg by now.
  • Difficulty walking or sitting due to pelvic pressure.
  • Frequent and painful Braxton Hicks contractions.
  • Increased vaginal discharge or mucus plug loss.
  • Nausea or diarrhea as the body prepares for labor.
  • Difficulty sleeping due to anxiety or discomfort.
  • Water breaking may happen anytime now.
  • Lower back pain or menstrual-like cramps could indicate early labor.
Baby Activities
  • Your baby is about the size of a winter melon (ash gourd), measuring around 48-49 cm (19 inches) long and weighing approximately 2.9-3 kg (6.5-6.8 lbs).
  • Lungs are fully developed and ready for the first breath.
  • Skin is smooth and soft due to fat accumulation.
  • Baby’s immune system is strong, receiving antibodies from the mother.
  • Head is likely engaged (head-down position) in the pelvis for delivery.
  • Baby is practicing breathing movements, swallowing amniotic fluid.
  • Baby’s brain and nervous system are completely developed.
  • Fingernails and hair have grown completely.
Symptoms
  • Increased pressure in the pelvis as your baby drops lower (lightening).
  • Braxton Hicks contractions – More frequent practice contractions.
  • Increased vaginal discharge (thick, clear, or slightly bloody).
  • Leaking of colostrum (early breast milk).
  • Swelling in feet, hands, and face (mild swelling is normal).
  • Nesting instinct – You may feel the urge to clean, organize, and prepare for the baby.
  • Lower back pain, pelvic pain, and leg cramps due to baby’s weight.
  • Fatigue and sleep disturbances due to discomfort and anticipation.
  • Frequent urination as the baby pushes against your bladder.
  • Diarrhea or loose stools – Your body may clear out before labor.
  • Baby movements may slow down slightly as there’s less space in the womb.
emotional changes
  • Excitement and anxiety about labor and delivery.
  • Fear of labor pain or complications.
  • Eagerness to meet your baby.
  • Strong nesting instinct – Cleaning, arranging, and setting up the baby’s room.
  • Mood swings due to hormonal changes and nervousness.
When to Call the Doctor (Labor Signs)
  • Strong and regular contractions (every 5-10 minutes).
  • Water breaking (fluid leaking).
  • Heavy vaginal bleeding or blood discharge.
  • Decreased baby movement or no movement for hours.
  • Intense back pain or pelvic pressure.
  • Blurred vision, dizziness, or severe headache (signs of preeclampsia).
  • Sudden swelling in hands, face, or legs.
Signs That Labor Is Near
    Signs What It Means
    Water breaking Amniotic fluid may start leaking, indicating labor is starting.
    Mucus plug discharge Thick, blood-tinged discharge from the vagina.
    Strong contractions Painful, regular contractions every 5 minutes.
    Diarrhea or nausea The body is preparing for labor.
    Lower back pain Continuous back pain that doesn’t go away.
    Pelvic pressure Baby’s head is fully engaged in the pelvis.
Preparation Tips for Week 37
  • Keep your hospital bag ready – Include baby clothes, toiletries, sanitary pads, and documents.
  • Keep your house clean and organized – This will help you focus on recovery later.
  • Talk to your doctor about pain relief (epidural or normal delivery options).
  • Plan your hospital transportation – Know how to get there in case of labor.
  • Stock up on postpartum essentials – Nursing bras, sanitary pads, and comfortable clothes.
  • Practice breathing exercises for labor.
What’s Next? (Labor Expectations)
  • Water breaking could happen any day.
  • Strong and regular contractions may start.
  • Baby may arrive anytime between week 37-40.
Final Advice
  • Stay calm, hydrated, and relaxed.
  • Keep your phone, hospital bag, and documents within reach.
  • Rest as much as you can, as labor can be physically exhausting.
  • Avoid traveling long distances.
  • Keep monitoring baby’s movements every day.
safe-actions
The Good
green-signal
green-signal
green-signal
green-signal
The Bad
red-signal
red-signal
red-signal
red-signal
Food to Eat
  • Protein for energy and muscle strength – Eggs, chicken, fish, lentils, beans, tofu.
  • Calcium for strong bones – Milk, yogurt, cheese, leafy greens.
  • Iron to prevent anemia – Spinach, red meat, beans, dry fruits.
  • Fiber to prevent constipation – Whole grains, fruits, vegetables.
  • Healthy fats for baby’s brain – Avocados, nuts, olive oil, fish (low mercury).
  • Hydration – Drink at least 3 liters of water daily.
Food To Avoid
  • Raw or undercooked meat, eggs, or seafood.
  • Unpasteurized dairy products.
  • High-mercury fish like shark, swordfish, king mackerel.
  • Junk food, sugary snacks, or processed food.
  • Excess caffeine (limit to 200 mg/day).