Pregnancy Week 38: Preparing for Delivery
Pregnancy week 38 brings you very close to your baby’s arrival. During this stage, your baby continues gaining weight and preparing for delivery. Although your baby is already well developed, the final weeks of pregnancy are important for continued growth and development.
Many women notice that their baby’s movements feel slightly different now compared to earlier weeks. As your baby grows larger and space inside the uterus becomes more limited, movements may feel more like stretches, rolling sensations, or shifting positions rather than sharp kicks.
This stage of pregnancy can bring a mixture of excitement and anticipation as parents prepare to welcome their baby. Your body is also continuing to make important adjustments as it prepares for labor and delivery.
Baby Development at Week 38
At thirty-eight weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a leek and continues gaining weight each week.
Your baby’s organs are now fully developed, including the lungs, brain, and digestive system. These systems will continue refining their functions even after birth.
Your baby is also continuing to build fat beneath the skin. This fat helps your baby regulate body temperature after delivery and supports healthy growth.
Your baby’s brain is still developing rapidly. The brain will continue growing and forming new connections both before and after birth.
Your baby’s movements may feel slightly slower but still strong. Because the baby is larger and space inside the uterus is limited, movements may feel more like pushing or shifting.
Most babies are now positioned head-down in preparation for birth. This position helps the baby move through the birth canal during delivery.
Common Symptoms During Week 38
Common experiences during week 38 include:
Pelvic pressure
Frequent urination
Back discomfort
Fatigue
Braxton Hicks contractions
Pelvic pressure may increase as the baby moves deeper into the pelvis. This can make walking or standing for long periods feel uncomfortable.
Frequent urination may also occur because the baby’s position places additional pressure on the bladder.
Braxton Hicks contractions may continue as the body prepares for labor.
Although these symptoms can feel uncomfortable, they are generally normal during the final weeks of pregnancy.
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 settles lower into the pelvis, some women notice changes in breathing or pressure in the lower abdomen.
Your body is also increasing blood circulation to supply oxygen and nutrients to your baby through the placenta.
Your abdomen may feel heavier compared to earlier weeks as your baby continues gaining weight.
These changes are part of the natural preparation for labor and delivery.
Understanding Signs of Labor
As pregnancy approaches the due date, many women begin paying closer attention to possible signs of labor.
Early signs of labor may include regular contractions, lower back pressure, or changes in vaginal discharge.
Braxton Hicks contractions are different from true labor contractions because they are usually irregular and do not become progressively stronger.
If contractions become regular, stronger, or closer together, it may be a sign that labor is beginning.
Helpful Tips for Week 38
Rest when needed
Stay hydrated
Continue gentle movement such as walking
Prepare for labor and delivery
Gentle walking may help improve circulation and can sometimes help the baby move into a favorable position for birth.
Taking time to rest and listening to your body can also help manage fatigue during the final weeks of pregnancy.
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 Your Baby’s Arrival
As pregnancy approaches the due date, many parents begin focusing on final preparations for their baby’s arrival.
This may include packing a hospital bag, preparing baby essentials, and reviewing birth plans.
Helpful guides and resources can be found here:
Learning about labor, delivery, and newborn care can help you feel more confident and prepared as your baby’s arrival gets closer.