Quick guide:

• What’s happening with the baby at 37 weeks pregnant?

• How big is your baby at 37 weeks pregnant?

• How is your belly at 37 weeks pregnant?

• Common symptoms and how to manage them?

• Frequently asked questions at 37 weeks pregnant

What’s happening with the baby at 37 weeks pregnant?

Hair and eyes

• Hair: Some babies are born with a full head of hair, while others have only peach fuzz or none at all. Their hair color and texture might change during the first year.

• Eyes: Many babies are born with dark blue or gray eyes, but their true eye color may take months to develop.

Movements

Your baby’s movements may feel different now as space is tight. However, they should still be active. Let your provider know if you notice a significant decrease in movement, as this can be a sign of distress.

Brain and lungs

Your baby's brain contains around 100 billion neurons and is continuing to develop rapidly. The lungs are almost fully matured, ready to take their first breath once they’re born.

Preparing for life outside

Your baby’s skin is smoothing out as they add fat, and their liver, brain, and lungs will continue to mature over the next few weeks. Their body is practicing functions like swallowing, breathing, and even smiling or frowning in the womb.

How big is your baby at 37 weeks pregnant?

At 37 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a bunch of Swiss chard. They measure approximately 48.3 cm long from head to toe and weigh around 3.03 kg. Your baby continues to gain weight, adding fat to help keep them warm after birth, and they’re almost ready to meet you!

How is your belly at 37 weeks pregnant?

At 37 weeks pregnant, your belly is likely at its largest and most prominent as your baby has grown to full term. Here’s what you might notice:

Size and shape

• Your belly is likely round and heavy, as your uterus has expanded to hold your baby, amniotic fluid, and placenta.

• If your baby has dropped lower into your pelvis (lightening), you may feel more pressure in your lower abdomen and pelvis, but you might also notice some relief in your breathing.

Common symptoms and how to manage them?

1) Braxton Hicks contractions

These "practice contractions" may become more frequent and intense as your body prepares for labor. While they aren’t as painful as true labor contractions, they can still be uncomfortable.

How to manage: Stay hydrated, rest, and change positions to ease discomfort. If contractions become regular, painful, and closer together, contact your provider, as this may signal labor.

2) Leaking breasts

Your breasts may leak colostrum, the nutrient-rich first milk for your baby. This is perfectly normal as your body gets ready for breastfeeding.

How to manage: Use nursing pads in your bra to absorb leaks and stay comfortable. Don’t worry if you’re not leaking; it’s not an indicator of your ability to breastfeed.

3) Vaginal discharge or spotting

You might notice increased discharge, possibly mixed with blood (bloody show), as your cervix thins and dilates. You may also lose your mucus plug, a sign labor is approaching.

How to manage: Wear panty liners for hygiene and comfort. Contact your provider if you notice heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or suspect your water has broken.

4) Gas and bloating

Your baby is crowding your digestive system, leading to gas, bloating, and sometimes indigestion.

How to manage: Eat smaller, frequent meals, avoid gassy foods, and take gentle walks after eating to aid digestion.

5) Lower back pain

The weight of your baby and the loosening of joints can cause significant back pain.

How to manage: Practice good posture, use a supportive pregnancy belt, and try gentle exercises like pelvic tilts or swimming. A warm bath or prenatal massage can also provide relief.

6) Fatigue

Carrying a full-term baby and disrupted sleep can leave you feeling exhausted.

How to manage: Take naps when possible, rest with your feet elevated, and conserve energy by asking for help with chores.

7) Pelvic pressure

As your baby drops into your pelvis, you may feel increased pressure or even sharp pains (lightning crotch).

How to manage: Use a pregnancy support band, avoid standing for long periods, and try warm baths or gentle stretches.

Frequently asked questions at 37 weeks pregnant

Is it normal to feel Braxton Hicks contractions more often?

Yes, Braxton Hicks contractions often become more frequent and intense as your body prepares for labor. These are “practice contractions” and usually go away with rest or hydration. If they become regular, stronger, and closer together, contact your provider as they may signal true labor.

What does losing the mucus plug mean?

The mucus plug is a thick clump of mucus that blocks the cervix during pregnancy to prevent bacteria from entering the uterus. Losing it is a sign that labor may be approaching, but it doesn’t always mean labor will start right away.

Should I still monitor baby movements?

Absolutely! Even though space is tight, your baby should remain active. If you notice fewer than 10 movements in two hours, call your provider, as decreased activity can indicate distress.

Is it normal to have vaginal discharge or spotting?

Yes, increased discharge or spotting is common as your cervix begins to efface and dilate. However, call your provider if you experience heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or suspect your water has broken.

Can I go into labor at 37 weeks?

Yes, labor can happen at any time, but it’s more common in the weeks closer to your due date. Babies born at 37 weeks are considered full-term and typically do well, though additional monitoring may be needed.

Why am I experiencing so much pelvic pressure?

As your baby drops into your pelvis (lightening), you may feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen and pelvis. This is normal and a sign that labor is approaching.

What should I do if my water breaks?

If your water breaks, call your provider immediately. It may come as a sudden gush or a slow trickle of fluid that doesn’t stop. Be prepared to head to the hospital or birthing center.