Pregnancy Week 38 means your baby's arrival is getting very close. Your baby continues to grow and gain weight while important systems, including the brain and lungs, continue to mature.
At this stage, you may feel physically ready for pregnancy to end, especially if you are experiencing pelvic pressure, tiredness, difficulty sleeping or frequent urination.
Your baby's movements should still remain noticeable, even though they may feel different because there is now much less space inside the uterus.
What Happens During Pregnancy Week 38?
During Week 38, your baby continues gaining weight and storing body fat.
The brain continues developing, and the lungs continue maturing in preparation for life outside the uterus.
Your baby's digestive system and other organs are also preparing for the transition after birth.
Many babies are positioned head-down and may move lower into the pelvis as birth approaches.
How Big Is the Baby at Week 38?
Your baby is approximately the size of a leek, although exact measurements can vary.
Your baby continues gaining weight during the final weeks of pregnancy.
Every baby grows differently, and your healthcare provider will monitor your baby's development according to your individual pregnancy.
Baby's Position at Week 38
Many babies are in a head-down position at this stage.
If your baby has moved lower into your pelvis, you may notice:
- Increased pelvic pressure
- More frequent urination
- Discomfort while walking
- A feeling of heaviness
- Pressure in the lower abdomen
However, not every baby moves into the pelvis at the same time.
Your healthcare provider can discuss your baby's position during prenatal appointments.
Baby's Movement at Week 38
Your baby's movements should continue to be noticeable every day.
You may feel:
- Kicks
- Stretching
- Pushing
- Turning
- Shifting
- Hiccups
- Pressure under the ribs
- Movement low in the abdomen
Because there is less room inside the uterus, movements may feel stronger but less dramatic than earlier in pregnancy.
You may feel more pushing and stretching instead of large rolling movements.
Understanding Your Baby's Movement Pattern
Your baby has periods of activity and sleep.
The important thing is to know what is normal for your baby.
Do not assume that decreased movement is normal simply because your due date is approaching.
If you notice a significant reduction or concerning change in your baby's usual movements, contact your maternity care provider promptly.
Baby's Brain Development
Your baby's brain continues to develop rapidly.
Important connections between nerve cells continue forming.
These connections support movement, sensory processing and other important functions.
Brain development will continue after birth and throughout childhood.
Baby's Lungs
Your baby's lungs continue maturing during Week 38.
The respiratory system is becoming increasingly prepared for independent breathing after birth.
The remaining time in the uterus continues to support important development.
Baby's Skin and Body Fat
Your baby continues accumulating fat beneath the skin.
This body fat helps with temperature regulation after birth.
The skin becomes smoother, and your baby's body has a fuller appearance.
Pregnancy Symptoms During Week 38
Common symptoms may include:
- Pelvic pressure
- Back pain
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty sleeping
- Tiredness
- Heartburn
- Constipation
- Mild swelling
- Leg cramps
- Breast tenderness
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Braxton Hicks contractions
Every pregnancy is different, and you may experience some symptoms more strongly than others.
Pelvic Pressure
As your baby grows or moves lower into the pelvis, pelvic pressure can become stronger.
You may feel:
- Heaviness
- Pressure when walking
- Discomfort when standing
- Pain or discomfort when changing positions
- Increased pressure on the bladder
Rest when necessary and avoid activities that cause significant discomfort.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions may become more noticeable at Week 38.
They can feel like tightening or hardening of the uterus.
They are often irregular and may decrease after:
- Resting
- Changing position
- Drinking fluids
However, if contractions become regular, stronger, longer or closer together, contact your maternity care provider.
Changes in Vaginal Discharge
You may notice changes in vaginal discharge as your body prepares for birth.
Some women may notice:
- Increased discharge
- Thicker mucus
- A jelly-like discharge
- Mucus with a small amount of blood
Heavy vaginal bleeding is not normal and requires urgent medical attention.
If you think your water has broken, contact your maternity care provider.
Back Pain and Discomfort
Back pain may become more noticeable as your body prepares for labor.
Helpful strategies can include:
- Maintaining good posture
- Avoiding heavy lifting
- Using pillows for support
- Taking gentle walks if appropriate
- Practicing pregnancy-safe stretching
- Taking regular breaks
Contact your healthcare provider if pain is severe, sudden or unusual.
Frequent Urination
If your baby has moved lower into your pelvis, pressure on your bladder may increase.
You may need to urinate more frequently.
Continue drinking enough water throughout the day.
Contact a healthcare professional if urination becomes painful or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Mild Swelling
Mild swelling in the feet and ankles can occur during pregnancy.
Resting and changing positions may help.
However, sudden or significant swelling, especially when accompanied by a severe headache, vision changes or upper abdominal pain, requires prompt medical attention.
Breast Changes
Your breasts continue preparing for feeding after birth.
You may notice:
- Increased fullness
- Tenderness
- Darker areolas
- More visible veins
- Small amounts of colostrum
A comfortable and supportive bra may help reduce discomfort.
Nutrition During Pregnancy Week 38
Continue focusing on a balanced and varied diet.
Protein
Good protein sources include:
- Eggs
- Chicken
- Lean meat
- Beans
- Lentils
- Yogurt
- Tofu
- Nuts
- Low-mercury fish
Fruits and Vegetables
Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables to provide:
- Fiber
- Vitamins
- Minerals
Whole Grains
Choose foods such as:
- Oats
- Brown rice
- Whole-wheat bread
- Quinoa
- Whole-grain cereals
Healthy Fats
Healthy sources include:
- Avocado
- Olive oil
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Low-mercury fish
Important Nutrients
Iron
Iron supports your increased blood supply and overall health during pregnancy.
Good sources include lean meat, beans, lentils and fortified foods.
Calcium
Calcium supports healthy bones and teeth.
Folate
Continue taking folate or folic acid according to your healthcare provider's recommendations.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D supports calcium absorption and bone health.
Follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding prenatal supplements.
Staying Hydrated
Drink water regularly throughout the day.
Hydration supports digestion, circulation and other important body functions.
It may also help reduce constipation.
Foods to Avoid
Continue following pregnancy food-safety recommendations.
Avoid:
- Alcohol
- Raw or undercooked meat
- Raw or undercooked eggs
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- Raw shellfish
- Fish high in mercury
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
Caffeine During Pregnancy
A commonly recommended limit is 200 mg of caffeine per day.
Caffeine can be found in:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Chocolate
- Energy drinks
- Some medications
Remember to consider your total daily caffeine intake.
Exercise During Week 38
If your pregnancy is uncomplicated and your healthcare provider has not recommended restrictions, gentle activity may still be appropriate.
Possible activities include:
- Walking
- Gentle stretching
- Prenatal yoga
- Swimming
Listen to your body and avoid activities that cause pain, dizziness or increase the risk of falling.
Sleep During Week 38
Sleep may be difficult because of:
- Pelvic pressure
- Frequent urination
- Heartburn
- Baby movements
- Anxiety or excitement
- Difficulty finding a comfortable position
Use pillows to support your belly, back and legs.
Rest whenever possible, even if you cannot sleep for long periods at night.
Prenatal Care at Week 38
Continue attending your prenatal appointments.
Your healthcare provider may monitor:
- Blood pressure
- Baby's position
- Baby's growth
- Your pregnancy symptoms
- Your overall health
Ask your healthcare provider about any changes or symptoms that concern you.
Preparing for Labor
At Week 38, your baby could arrive soon.
Make sure you have:
- Your hospital bag ready
- Important documents prepared
- Transportation arranged
- Important phone numbers saved
- Essential newborn supplies at home
- A plan for practical support after birth
You may also want to review when and how to contact your maternity unit.
Signs of Labor
Regular Contractions
True labor contractions usually become:
- More regular
- Stronger
- Longer
- Closer together
If you are unsure whether your contractions are true labor, contact your maternity care provider.
Your Water Breaking
Your water may break as:
- A sudden gush of fluid
- A continuous trickle
If you think your water has broken, contact your maternity care provider.
Bloody Show
You may notice mucus with a small amount of blood as your cervix begins preparing for labor.
Heavy bleeding requires urgent medical attention.
Increasing Pelvic Pressure
Increasing pelvic pressure may happen as your baby moves deeper into the pelvis.
However, pelvic pressure alone does not always mean labor has started.
Emotional Well-Being
During the final weeks, you may experience many different emotions.
You may feel:
- Excited
- Nervous
- Impatient
- Happy
- Worried
- Overwhelmed
These feelings can be normal.
Talk to someone you trust about your concerns.
Focus on rest and practical preparation rather than trying to make everything perfect.
If persistent anxiety or sadness is affecting your daily life, speak with a healthcare professional.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
Contact your healthcare provider or maternity unit promptly if you experience:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Fluid leaking from the vagina
- Regular or increasingly painful contractions
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Severe headache
- Vision changes
- Sudden significant swelling
- Fever
- Fainting
- Sudden or severe difficulty breathing
- A significant reduction or concerning change in your baby's movements
Do not ignore severe or unusual symptoms during pregnancy.
Pregnancy Week 38 Checklist
- Continue taking recommended prenatal supplements.
- Attend all prenatal appointments.
- Pay attention to your baby's normal movement pattern.
- Keep your hospital bag ready.
- Prepare important documents.
- Confirm transportation.
- Review the signs of labor.
- Keep important phone numbers available.
- Prepare a safe sleeping space for your baby.
- Organize newborn essentials.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Drink enough water.
- Rest whenever possible.
- Make time for relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the baby at Week 38?
Your baby is approximately the size of a leek, although individual measurements can vary.
Should my baby still move at Week 38?
Yes. Your baby's movements should remain noticeable. They may feel different because there is less space, but a significant reduction or concerning change should be reported promptly.
Can labor start at Week 38?
Yes. Labor can begin at Week 38. Contact your maternity care provider if you experience regular contractions, fluid leakage, bleeding or other signs of labor.
What is the difference between Braxton Hicks and labor contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions are often irregular and may decrease with rest or a change in position. True labor contractions generally become more regular, stronger, longer and closer together.
What should I prepare at Week 38?
Keep your hospital bag, important documents, transportation plan, newborn supplies and support arrangements ready.
Conclusion
Pregnancy Week 38 is an exciting stage because your baby's arrival may be very close. Your baby continues gaining weight while the brain, lungs and other body systems continue to mature.
Your baby's movements should remain noticeable every day. Although they may feel different because of limited space, a significant reduction or concerning change should always be taken seriously.
Your body may also be showing more signs of preparation for birth, including pelvic pressure, Braxton Hicks contractions, increased vaginal discharge and back discomfort.
Continue attending prenatal appointments, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated and resting whenever possible.
Keep your hospital bag and practical plans ready, and make sure you know how to contact your maternity care provider when labor begins or if you experience any concerning symptoms.
Every pregnancy is unique, and your baby may arrive soon or continue developing for another few weeks.
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