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As the countdown continues, you might notice some significant changes this week.
Mostly, your body is just gearing up for the big day of giving birth. So, let’s dive right into what you can expect this week!
How Big Is Baby at 37 Weeks?
Coming in at about the size of a head of romaine lettuce, your baby is 19.1 inches long from head-to-feet and weighing about 6.3 pounds.
Tips for A Healthy Pregnancy at 37 Weeks
Sleeping – Getting and staying asleep might be somewhat of a challenge nowadays. And, for many reasons, too.
Not only are you uncomfortable, but once you do get to sleep, you wake up having to use the restroom. On top of that, your dreams are so vivid that you might as well be watching Netflix all night.
With all the odds stacked against you getting some much-needed rest, remember just to take it when you can get it. You can even resort to napping during the day if you have a free minute.
Nesting – Expecting women are notorious for what’s called nesting. This is sort of an obsessive cleaning, organizing, and moving things around endeavor.
Sometimes nothing actually needs to be cleaned, but you clean anyway. You look at your house with an over-critical eye.
This is viewed as an instinctive behavior and might be kicking in very soon.
Some believe it’s nature’s way of telling you that birth is right around the corner. There’s no time limit on nesting. You might do it for a few days or a few weeks.
Asking for Help – Even if you’ve hit your nesting phase, you might still be exhausted and not exactly the most mobile of humans.
It’s not uncommon to have an exceptionally difficult or emotional day. The end of a marathon such as pregnancy is often the hardest part emotion-wise.
So, don’t hesitate to ask for help from your partner or even to recruit friends and family to help get stuff done while you soak up a little rest.
How Many Months is 37 Weeks?
You are now eight months and three weeks pregnant, mama!
Ultrasound at 37 Weeks
If you think you’re feeling crowded, then you’re right. And, your baby is thinking the same thing.
He/she is just wrapping up the last few weeks of weight gain to meet the world as big and strong as possible.
Your baby is still active by practicing sucking, gripping, blinking, inhaling, and exhaling – all actions you’ll see your baby do shortly after giving birth.
37 Weeks Pregnant: Your Belly
There’s a good chance that a few last minute stretch marks might make an appearance this week. Just when you think your skin can’t stretch anymore, it does!
Just remember to keep yourself comfortable by putting lotion on your skin. Also, you can provide support for your stretching skin in the form of a belly band or a good bra.
37 Weeks Pregnant: Changes in Your Body
Nausea – Although nausea is mostly expected during the first trimester, it can often revisit during the end of the third trimester.
It’s often considered a sign that you’re about to go into labor, so pay close attention to it. Of course, the heartburn and digestive problems don’t make this an easy task to do.
Your insides are becoming so crowded that everything feels uncomfortable. Just know that the end is in sight, mama!
Mucus Plug – The mucus plug is what has protected your baby from germs passing through your vagina into your uterus. It’s just as it sounds, a thick mucus-like plug.
Before going into labor, many women release this plug either in one big glob or a little bit at a time. It typically means that you’re starting to dilate, which is how the mucus plug was released in the first place.
When released, there may be a tinge of blood in it, which is perfectly normal and why it’s also known as “bloody show.”
Stretch Marks – Not unlike the rest of your body, your skin takes a beating during pregnancy. Especially the skin on your belly, thighs, and breasts.
These are all common places for stretch marks to appear. Although the growth pace has slowed for both you and baby, it’s common for brand new stretch marks to show up towards the very end of your pregnancy.
Remember to lotion your skin to make it feel less itchy and more comfortable.
37 Weeks Pregnant: With Twins
You might have noticed some spotting this week, especially if you’re still sexually active. This is completely normal.
Be sure to monitor the amount of blood you see. If it’s any more than a few drops, then please call your doctor.
More than anything you’re probably just feeling huge and immobile. It’s a good thing the countdown has begun!
37 Weeks Pregnant: A Checklist
- Review all the signs of labor.
- Ask for help from your partner or friends on an especially hard day.
- Touch up on caring for a newborn and baby grooming basics.
- Learn about postpartum depression.