Pregnancy Week 38: What to Expect

Exciting News!

At 38 weeks, your baby is now considered FULL-TERM, meaning your little one could arrive any day now. You’ve done an amazing job throughout pregnancy, and now it's time to stay calm, relaxed, and ready for labor.
Remember: If you experience strong contractions, water break, or any abnormal symptoms, head straight to the hospital.
Your baby is ready to meet you – and you’re about to have the most beautiful moment of your life!
You’re now in Week 38, and your baby is full-term! Your body is preparing for labor anytime now, and your baby is ready to enter the world. Your excitement and anxiety may be at their peak, but stay calm — you're almost there!
Mom’s Health Concerns
  • Weight gain: You may have gained 17-23 kg by now.
  • Pelvic pressure making it harder to walk.
  • Frequent sleep disturbances due to discomfort.
  • Increased vaginal discharge as labor approaches.
  • Shortness of breath (may improve as baby drops lower).
  • Water breaking may happen anytime now.
  • Strong back pain or period-like cramps.
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (common before labor).
Baby Activities
  • Your baby is about the size of a pumpkin, measuring around 49-50 cm (19-20 inches) long and weighing approximately 3-3.2 kg (6.6-7 lbs).
  • Lungs are fully developed, and your baby can breathe on its own.
  • Skin is smooth, and fat layers keep the baby warm.
  • Baby is practicing sucking and swallowing, preparing for breastfeeding.
  • Head is likely engaged in the pelvis, ready for birth.
  • Immune system is stronger, receiving antibodies from you.
  • Baby is less active due to limited space in the womb.
  • Fingernails and hair have grown completely.
  • Baby’s weight gain slows down as birth nears.
Symptoms
  • Increased pelvic pressure as the baby has fully dropped into your pelvis.
  • Frequent urination due to the baby pressing against your bladder.
  • Braxton Hicks contractions may become stronger and more regular.
  • Back pain and leg cramps due to the baby’s weight.
  • Vaginal discharge or mucus plug release (this is a sign labor is approaching).
  • Colostrum leakage from breasts (early breast milk).
  • Diarrhea or nausea as the body clears itself before labor.
  • Swollen feet and ankles (normal, but report sudden swelling).
  • Difficulty sleeping due to discomfort and anticipation.
  • Lightning crotch – Sharp vaginal pain caused by the baby’s pressure on the cervix.
emotional changes
  • Mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety about labor.
  • Eagerness to meet your baby.
  • Fear of labor pain – Discuss pain relief options with your doctor.
  • Strong nesting instinct – Cleaning, arranging, and preparing the baby's space.
  • Restlessness and impatience as the due date approaches.
When to Call the Doctor (Labor Signs)
  • Strong contractions that are 5 minutes apart and last 60 seconds.
  • Water breaking (gush or slow leak of amniotic fluid).
  • Heavy vaginal bleeding or abnormal discharge.
  • Severe back pain or pelvic pressure.
  • Baby’s movements slow down or stop.
  • Blurry vision, severe headache, or dizziness (sign of preeclampsia).
  • Sudden swelling in hands, face, or feet.
Signs That Labor Is Very Near
    Signs What It Means
    Water breaking Labor may start within 24 hours.
    Mucus plug discharge Thick, blood-tinged discharge from the vagina.
    Strong contractions Painful, regular contractions every 5 minutes.
    Severe back pain Baby’s head is pressing against the pelvis.
    Diarrhea or nausea The body is preparing for labor.
    Increased pelvic pressure Baby is fully engaged for delivery.
Preparation Tips for Week 38
  • Keep your hospital bag at the door – Include clothes, toiletries, documents, and baby items.
  • Plan transportation to the hospital – Ensure someone is always available to take you.
  • Discuss labor plans – Talk to your doctor about pain relief, delivery methods, and C-section options.
  • Postpartum care items – Nursing bras, sanitary pads, and comfortable clothes should be ready.
  • Know your hospital’s contact – Be ready to call anytime you experience labor signs.
  • Prepare a baby corner at home – Crib, diapers, clothes, baby toiletries, etc.
What’s Next? (Labor Expectations)
  • Water breaking could happen anytime.
  • Mucus plug release (bloody show) is common.
  • Contractions may start gradually and become stronger.
  • Baby’s arrival is very close — within days or a week.
  • Stay calm, positive, and hydrated.
Labor Pain Relief Options
    Pain Relief Option Description
    Epidural (most common) Numbs the lower body but keeps you awake.
    IV Medication Reduces pain but may cause drowsiness.
    Breathing exercises Helps manage pain naturally.
    Water therapy Taking a warm shower or tub bath can relax muscles.
safe-actions
The Good
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The Bad
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Food to Eat
  • Protein-rich foods – Eggs, chicken, fish, tofu, lentils, nuts.
  • Calcium for bones – Milk, yogurt, cheese, leafy greens.
  • Iron for energy – Spinach, red meat, beans, dates.
  • Fiber for digestion – Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Healthy fats – Avocados, nuts, fish (low mercury).
  • Hydration – Drink at least 3 liters of water daily.
  • Energy-boosting snacks – Dry fruits, nuts, fruits, and smoothies.
Food To Avoid
  • Raw or undercooked meat, eggs, and seafood.
  • Unpasteurized dairy products.
  • High-mercury fish like shark, swordfish, king mackerel.
  • Excess caffeine (limit to 200 mg/day).
  • Fried, spicy, or heavy foods to avoid heartburn.
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