Pregnant in week 37
In week 37 your baby is full term! The lungs are ready for the first breath, and everything is now in place for life outside the womb. Labour can start any time in the coming weeks – rest when you can.
Your baby in week 37
Your baby measures around 48.6 centimetres and weighs about 2,900 grams. From this week it is considered full term, and most organs are ready to work on their own.
The lungs are now mature enough that your baby can breathe on its own after birth. It still practises breathing, sucking and swallowing – all important skills for the first feed at the breast.
Your baby has a firm grip and responds to light, sound and touch. For most it lies head-down, well down in the pelvis, ready for birth.
Your body and symptoms in week 37
Labour can now begin any time, and it is completely normal to swing between anticipation and impatience. Listen to your body, and rest as much as you can.
The downward pressure is strong when your baby lies deep in the pelvis, and many experience frequent urination, pelvic pain and a waddling gait. Braxton Hicks contractions can be hard to tell from real ones.
Watch for the signs of labour: regular, increasing contractions, waters breaking or a bloody mucus plug. Keep feeling your baby's movements – they should be there, right up to the birth.
Good advice for week 37
Know the signs of labour
Regular contractions that get closer and stronger, waters breaking or a bloody mucus plug are signs labour has started. Call the maternity unit whenever you are in doubt.
Keep feeling for movements
Your baby should move right up to the birth. With clearly fewer or weaker movements, contact the maternity unit immediately – even now.
Rest and conserve your energy
You don't know when it will start. Sleep when you can, eat well, and keep your energy in reserve for the big day.
Have everything ready to go
Hospital bag, car seat, papers and a transport plan should be ready, so you can leave calmly when contractions come.
Checklists for this stage
Tick things off as you go – the list remembers where you got to, and you can share it with your partner.
Relevant with us in week 37
This is what we can offer you at this point in your pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions in week 37
What does full term mean?
From week 37 your baby is full term, meaning it is mature enough to be born without being considered premature. Most organs are ready for life outside.
When should I go to the hospital?
As a rule of thumb, with regular contractions a few minutes apart, when your waters break or if there is bleeding. The maternity unit will always guide you if you call.
Is it normal to feel very impatient?
Yes. The final weeks can feel long, and it is completely normal to swing between joy, nerves and impatience. Try to enjoy the last calm days.
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Read on in week 37
The hospital bag – what to pack, and when?
How do you prepare for birth? – A guide for expectant mothers
