Week 38 · 3rd trimester

Pregnancy Week 38: What to Expect

Baby's development, your body's changes, common symptoms, what to eat, and what to do this week.

Baby's size this week: Leek or spaghetti squash (~49 cm)

Baby's development at week 38

Baby continues to gain weight. Brain rapidly developing. Most babies are head-down. Baby's body fat continues to fill out. Baby's grasp reflex is strong. Baby has a "ready to be born" look and shape now.

What's happening in your body

Your uterus is at peak height. Heavy pelvic pressure. Sleep almost impossible. Possible Braxton Hicks contractions, sometimes intense and frequent. Possible mild diarrhea. Mood swings. Anticipation, anxiety. Sometimes mild depression — common in the last weeks.

Common symptoms at week 38

Pelvic discomfort. Mood swings. Anticipation, anxiety. Possible mild depression — common but should not be ignored. Possible swelling. Possible Braxton Hicks. Possible diarrhea. Strong fetal movements.

When to call your provider

Persistent contractions every 5 minutes for an hour — call, this may be active labor. Watery discharge or gush. Bleeding. Severe headache/vision changes.

How to feel better this week

Continue Kegels. Side sleeping with maximum pillow support. Hydration. Walk daily if you can — gentle exercise can help labor start. Practice labor positions: hands-and-knees, leaning on a birth ball, deep squats. Try eating dates if you like them. Rest.

Nutrition focus for week 38

Continue all nutrients. Hydrate. Eat dates. Iron, calcium, protein, healthy fats. Limit salt if swelling is bad.

For your partner

Be aware that mood can shift in the last weeks. Mild depression or sadness — common but worth mentioning to provider. Be present and patient. Help with errands; do not push for activity.

This week's to-do

Daily walks. Practice labor positions.

Is this normal?

Studies on dates (4-6 per day starting at week 36) show they may reduce induction rates, soften the cervix, and shorten labor. The evidence is modest but the side effects are nothing, so worth trying if you like them.

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Medical disclaimer: This content is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare provider about your specific pregnancy. If you have concerning symptoms, do not wait — call your provider or go to the emergency department.

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