What To Expect When You’re 38 Weeks Pregnant

Your baby is the size of a winter melon!

The homestretch is here, and you’re probably more than ready to meet your new baby.

Like the previous weeks, your body is all about getting ready for labor and delivery. Let’s see what’s in store this week!

How Big Is Baby at 38 Weeks?

As big as a winter melon, your baby is about 19.6 inches from head-to-feet and weighs around 6.8 pounds.

medical accurate 3d illustration of a fetus week 38

Tips for A Healthy Pregnancy at 38 Weeks

Anxiety – As you head down the homestretch of pregnancy, you might be feeling 100 different emotions.

Ranging from excitement to nervousness to exhaustion, the emotions a woman feels right before having her baby run the gamut.

All of these feelings at once can cause anxiety. Just remember to take it all in stride.

Your body is prepared to do its job, and so is your baby. Keep your mind calm by practicing breathing techniques, minimizing external stressors, and taking time for you each day.

Walk – You might be feeling somewhat immobile these days. And, there’s a good chance you’ve fully embraced the pregnancy waddle.

Although you might not make it far and you might not make it speedily, aim to get up and move often. Go for a short walk to get your blood flowing and keep your joints moving.

No need to be superwoman (you’ve already proven that), but keep yourself active enough to avoid stiffness or extra swelling.

Rest – In addition to getting up and walking around now and then, remember to focus on taking timeouts for yourself.

Not only does this focus on rest give your body the opportunity to relax, but it also gives your mind the chance to get anchored back in the moment rather than taking off in a whirlwind.

How Many Months is 38 Weeks?

You are officially nine months pregnant, mama!

Ultrasound at 38 Weeks

Your baby’s head circumference and waist circumference are around the same size this week.

Your baby is ready for birth but might want to hide out in your uterus for a little bit longer.

38 weeks pregnant ultrasound #1 38 weeks pregnant ultrasound #2 38 weeks pregnant ultrasound #3 38 weeks pregnant ultrasound #4

38 Weeks Pregnant: Your Belly

Your belly probably feels like it’s been stretched to the limit, so you might experience itchy skin this week.

Also, Braxton Hicks (or real) contractions will cause your belly to tighten throughout the day.

Just remember to watch and time your contractions. If you can’t find any relief when you move around, then you might just be in the early stages of labor.

38 Weeks Pregnant: Changes in Your Body

Contractions – You’ve probably been feeling contractions for a few weeks now.

But, what you felt was likely the very annoying and very common Braxton Hicks contractions.

While they are normal, especially during the latter part of pregnancy, they can be mistaken for the early stages of labor.

If your contractions increase in intensity and frequency or you can’t ease them by changing positions, then you’re likely in labor.

Itchy Belly – Your poor little belly has stretched about as far as it can stretch. And, you feel it!

You might be experiencing the same itchy feeling that you experienced when you first started to show your baby bump. Remember to stay hydrated from the inside out by drinking lots of water.

You can also help your skin feel better by putting lotion on your itchy belly.

Diarrhea – Strangely enough, diarrhea is a common indicator that you’re about to go into labor.

Much like nausea, diarrhea is brought on by a new rush of hormones triggering labor to start.

If you experience diarrhea then pay close attention. It could be that the food you ate might be causing you an upset stomach or it could be that baby is on the way.

38 Weeks Pregnant: With Twins

Statistically speaking, this is the week you’re most likely to give birth to your twins or multiples. And, you might be more than ready.

All the uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms get frustrating the closer it gets to delivery day. That special day is almost here, so hang in there!

38 Weeks Pregnant: A Checklist

  • Double check your hospital bag.
  • Wear a watch with a second hand to time contractions.
  • Remember to balance your active times with restful times.
  • Put your feet up as much as you can.
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