38 weeks pregnant
At 38 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a pumpkin: around 49.8 cm head to heel and 3.08 kg. The organs are ready for life outside, and fat keeps building.
Your baby at 38 weeks
The organs are ready for life outside, and fat keeps building.
| Size | About the size of a pumpkin |
|---|---|
| Length | 49.8 cm head to heel |
| Weight | 3.08 kg |
Your baby's organs are ready to work on their own, and the bowel is full of meconium, which will be your baby's first poo. Your baby's grip is firm, and the vernix and lanugo are mostly gone. Your baby weighs about 3.1 kg and is gaining a little each day.
How far along are you at 38 weeks?
At 38 weeks pregnant you are in the ninth month of your pregnancy and the third trimester. You have about 2 weeks to go until your due date. Doctors count pregnancy from the first day of your last period, not from conception, so at 38 weeks your baby has been growing for about 36 weeks. Not sure of your dates? Use our due date calculator.
Your body at 38 weeks
You may feel pelvic pressure and a burst of nesting energy. Learn the signs of labour and when to call.
Common symptoms at 38 weeks
Every pregnancy is different, and you may have some, all or none of these.
- Swelling. Put your feet up and stay cool.
- Insomnia. Hard to get comfortable, and your mind may be busy.
- Pelvic pain. Pressure from your baby's head.
- More discharge. Normal, but a gush or trickle of fluid needs checking.
- Impatience and nerves. Very common in the final weeks.
- Braxton Hicks. They may come more often.
Your checklist for week 38
- Rest as much as you can, and accept offers of help.
- Confirm who will call family, and who will look after older children.
- Prepare your home: a place for your baby to sleep, nappies and clothes ready.
- Read about recovery after birth, including bleeding, stitches and mood changes.
- Ask your doctor when they would offer a membrane sweep or induction if your baby is late.
Tip of the week: Dates in late pregnancy
Dates are a traditional food at the end of pregnancy in many cultures. Some small studies suggest that eating around six dates a day from 36 weeks may help the cervix ripen and reduce the need for induction, though the evidence isn't strong. Dates are high in sugar, so check with your doctor if you have gestational diabetes.
For your partner
You're on call now.
- Keep your phone charged and the tank full
- Time contractions with the app
- Stay calm and keep her company
When to call your doctor at 38 weeks
Contact your doctor, midwife or maternity unit the same day if you have:
- Your baby is moving less, or the pattern has changed.
- Your waters break, bleeding, or regular painful contractions.
Call your doctor or hospital straight away for bleeding, severe pain, fluid leaking, severe headache or vision changes, or fewer baby movements.
Questions about 38 weeks pregnant
Can I do anything to start labour naturally?
Staying active, walking and eating dates are popular, but there is little strong evidence that any home method brings on labour. Avoid castor oil and herbal remedies, which can cause problems. A membrane sweep, done by your doctor or midwife, is the main proven first step.
What is the baby blues?
Many new mums feel tearful, anxious or low in the first few days after birth, as hormones shift. This usually passes within two weeks. If low mood lasts longer or feels severe, it may be postnatal depression, which is common and treatable. Tell your doctor.
How will I know it's real labour?
Real contractions come regularly, get stronger, last longer and come closer together, and don't ease with rest or a change of position. Braxton Hicks are irregular and fade. If you aren't sure, call your maternity unit.