“Birth is the culmination of a quiet miracle. Every heartbeat, every flutter, has led to this moment of life unfolding.”

Welcome to Week 38 of pregnancy — you’re officially in the home stretch. With just two weeks to go until your due date, your body and your baby are making final preparations for the big moment. This is a time of heightened anticipation, emotional vulnerability, and physical readiness. Whether this is your first pregnancy or you’re welcoming another baby into your family, Week 38 marks the beginning of the final countdown.

Fetal Development at 38 Weeks

Your baby is now considered full term and is essentially ready to meet the world. At approximately 19.6 to 20 inches long and weighing around 6.8 to 7 pounds, your little one has reached the size of a small pumpkin.

• Skin: Your baby’s skin is now smooth and soft, thanks to layers of fat that have built up over the past several weeks. The vernix (the white, waxy coating) is mostly gone now.
• Organs: The lungs are fully developed and capable of breathing air, although the baby continues to practice breathing by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid.
• Brain: The brain continues to grow rapidly — a process that will continue after birth. Your baby is still learning and responding to your voice, light, and touch.
• Position: Most babies are in the head-down position by Week 38. If your baby is breech, your healthcare provider may discuss options like external cephalic version (ECV).

Your Changing Body

By now, your body feels very pregnant — and for good reason. The physical demands of carrying a full-term baby are significant. Here’s what you might be experiencing:

• Pelvic Pressure: As the baby drops lower into your pelvis (a process called lightening), you may feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen and pelvis.
• Frequent Urination: With the baby pressing against your bladder, trips to the bathroom may be constant.
• Back Pain: Your lower back may be sore due to the baby’s position and increased strain on your muscles and joints.
• Insomnia: Between physical discomfort and racing thoughts, sleep may feel elusive right now.
• Leaky Breasts: You may notice small leaks of colostrum — the early form of breast milk your body is preparing for feeding.

Signs of Labor to Watch For

At this stage, labor could begin any day. Knowing the signs can help you prepare:

• Regular Contractions: Unlike Braxton Hicks, true labor contractions come at regular intervals and gradually get stronger and closer together.
• Water Breaking: This can be a sudden gush or a slow trickle of amniotic fluid. If your water breaks, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Bloody Show: A thick discharge tinged with blood is a common sign that labor is near.
• Pelvic Pressure and Backache: Increasing pressure and cramping in your lower back and pelvis can be an early sign of labor starting soon.

Emotional Landscape

Emotionally, you may be feeling a mix of excitement, anxiety, and even impatience. It’s perfectly normal to feel emotionally raw as the birth draws near. Here’s how to nurture yourself:

• Talk About It: Express your feelings with a trusted partner, friend, or counselor. Talking can reduce stress and help you feel supported.
• Practice Affirmations: Positive affirmations like “My body knows how to give birth” can calm your mind and boost your confidence.
• Create a Soothing Space: Light candles, play soft music, and rest in a calm environment to maintain emotional balance.

What to Do This Week

Though it’s tempting to rest all day, keeping lightly active and organized can actually help you feel more grounded:

• Finalize Your Hospital Bag: Include essentials for labor, delivery, postpartum, and your newborn.
• Install the Car Seat: Most hospitals won’t discharge you without a properly installed infant car seat.
• Go Over Your Birth Plan: Review your preferences with your healthcare provider and birthing partner.
• Practice Breathing Techniques: Whether it’s Lamaze, Hypnobirthing, or deep breathing, practicing now will help you during labor.
• Meal Prep: Cook and freeze meals for the postpartum period when time and energy may be limited.

Partner’s Role This Week

Partners play a critical role during this phase. Encourage them to:

• Attend the final prenatal appointments
• Help with packing, organizing, and errands
• Learn or review birthing support techniques
• Be emotionally present and reassuring

When to Call Your Doctor

Even if you’re feeling great, you should contact your doctor immediately if you notice:

• Decreased fetal movement
• Vaginal bleeding
• Severe headache or vision changes
• Sudden swelling of face or hands
• High fever or flu-like symptoms

Looking Ahead

You’re nearly there. In the coming week, your baby may arrive or may decide to stay cozy for a bit longer. Either way, your body is orchestrating an incredible event. Trust yourself, stay prepared, and continue to rest and hydrate. Week 39 is just around the corner, and we’ll be right here to guide you through the final days of your pregnancy.

Be sure to check back next week as we delve into Week 39 and explore the final mental and physical preparations before labor begins.