Week 38 of Pregnancy

Baby Size Comparison in Week 38

In week 38 of pregnancy your baby measures about 49 cm long and weighs about 3.1 kilograms: roughly the size of Small watermelon. Remember these are approximate averages from standard growth charts; every baby grows at their own pace, and your doctor follows your baby's personal growth curve across visits, not a single number. If an ultrasound measures a little bigger or smaller than average, that is usually normal as long as growth continues at a steady rate.

Baby Development in Week 38

The baby's grip grows stronger; it grasps a finger placed in its palm firmly (the grasp reflex), and all its organs work with high efficiency. The intestines are full of meconium (the first dark stool it will pass after birth), and the lungs are strong and ready for the first breath.

The brain keeps forming nerve connections at an astonishing pace, and fat accumulates, so the body becomes plump and pink. Its head may drop lower into the pelvis, increasing bladder pressure. The weight is about 3.1 kilograms and the length 49 cm. The baby is now the size of a small watermelon; all internal preparations for life outside are complete.

The baby's grip grows stronger; it grasps a finger placed in its palm firmly (the grasp reflex), and all its organs work with high efficiency. The intestines fill with meconium (the first dark stool it will pass after birth), and the lungs are strong and ready for the first breath. The brain keeps forming nerve connections at an astonishing pace, and fat accumulates, so the body becomes plump and pink. The head may drop lower into the pelvis, increasing bladder pressure. All internal preparations for life outside are complete.

Your Body Changes in Week 38

Pelvic pressure is severe: heaviness, tingling, and difficulty walking and sitting comfortably. Nighttime urination every hour, and near-constant insomnia.

Braxton Hicks contractions are strong and sometimes close together, causing false trips to the hospital; common and nothing to be embarrassed about. Discharge increases and the mucus plug may come out. Weight gain is about 14 to 19 kilograms. Emotionally: total impatience and the urge to get the baby out; remember that waiting a few extra days serves its interests. Watch for danger signs and do not hesitate to contact your doctor.

Watch for danger signs and do not hesitate to contact your doctor. Keep counting kicks daily. Prepare frozen meals and home help for the days after birth now. And sleep during the day whenever you can.

Practical Tips for Week 38

• Watch for danger signs: vaginal bleeding, severe headache, blurred vision, sudden swelling, reduced baby movement.
• Keep counting kicks daily; it is your last safety line before birth.
• Prepare frozen meals and home help for the days after birth now.
• Sleep whenever you can during the day; the nights after birth will be interrupted.

Frequently Asked Questions About Week 38