Pregnancy Week 37: Early Term Pregnancy
Pregnancy week 37 is an important milestone because pregnancy is now considered early term. Your baby has developed significantly and is almost ready for birth.
Although your baby may continue growing during the final weeks of pregnancy, most of the major body systems are already developed and preparing for life outside the womb.
Many women notice their baby moving regularly throughout the day. Movements may feel slightly different now because the baby has less room to move inside the uterus. Instead of sharp kicks, you may feel stretching, rolling, or shifting movements.
As your due date approaches, your body continues preparing for labor and delivery. This stage of pregnancy often brings excitement as parents begin anticipating the arrival of their baby.
Baby Development at Week 37
At thirty-seven weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of Swiss chard and continues gaining weight each week.
Your baby’s lungs are now well developed and preparing for breathing after birth. Although development continues during the remaining weeks of pregnancy, the lungs are now strong enough to function outside the womb.
Your baby’s brain is also continuing to develop rapidly. The brain will continue growing and forming connections both before and after birth.
Your baby’s digestive system is developing as well. The baby practices swallowing small amounts of amniotic fluid, which helps prepare the digestive system for feeding after birth.
Your baby’s bones continue strengthening, although the skull bones remain flexible to allow easier passage through the birth canal.
Many babies are now positioned head-down in preparation for delivery, although some babies may still shift position before labor begins.
Common Symptoms During Week 37
Common experiences during week 37 include:
Pelvic pressure
Frequent urination
Back discomfort
Fatigue
Braxton Hicks contractions
Pelvic pressure may occur because the baby is settling deeper into the pelvis. This position helps prepare the body for labor.
Frequent urination may also occur because the baby’s position places pressure on the bladder.
Although these symptoms can feel uncomfortable, they are often signs that your body is preparing for delivery.
Changes in Your Body
Your uterus has reached one of its largest sizes during pregnancy and continues supporting your baby’s growth.
As the baby moves lower into the pelvis, some women notice increased pressure in the lower abdomen.
Your body is also producing increased blood volume to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your baby through the placenta.
You may also notice that your baby bump feels heavier as the pregnancy progresses toward the final weeks.
These changes are a natural part of preparing your body for labor.
Understanding Early Term Pregnancy
Pregnancy is considered early term between weeks 37 and 38.
Although babies born during this time are generally healthy, many healthcare providers encourage allowing pregnancy to continue until full term if possible.
Full term pregnancy usually occurs between weeks 39 and 40, when the baby has had additional time to grow and mature.
Your healthcare provider will continue monitoring your pregnancy to ensure both you and your baby remain healthy during these final weeks.
Helpful Tips for Week 37
Rest when needed
Stay hydrated
Continue gentle exercise such as walking
Prepare for labor and delivery
Taking time to rest and allowing your body to recover can help manage fatigue during the final weeks of pregnancy.
Gentle movement such as walking may also help improve circulation and support overall comfort.
Track Your Pregnancy Progress
Track your pregnancy week and milestones here:
This tool helps you track pregnancy stages, important milestones, and your estimated due date.
Preparing for Birth
As your due date approaches, many parents begin focusing on final preparations for their baby’s arrival.
This may include reviewing birth plans, preparing baby essentials, and learning about newborn care.
Helpful guides and resources can be found here:
Learning about labor, delivery, and the early days of newborn care can help you feel more confident as you prepare to welcome your baby.