38 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Baby Development & Signs of Labor

At 38 weeks pregnant, you are now in the last stretch of your pregnancy. At this stage, your baby is considered a complete-term, and delivery can come after a day or 40–41 weeks of pregnancy. Some mothers alone go into labor within this week, while others can take up to 40 or 41 weeks before giving birth.

Your body is preparing you to meet your child, and you can be both worried and excited while waiting. Let’s look at the 38 weeks pregnancy in detail: what is expected, the development of the child, the signs of labor, and how to take care of yourself in this decisive week.

38 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect

In 38 weeks, your body is getting ready to give birth. During this phase, you can see some things:

Increased pelvic pressure: Baby may have decreased in your pelvis (light) because you gave birth for the last time.

Frequent urination: Due to your child’s condition, the pressure on your bladder increases significantly.

Brexon Hick contraction: They become faster and sometimes stronger over time.

Colostrum leakage: Some mothers reported noticing yellow pre-silk fluids from their breasts that appeared as an unexpected yellow tint.

Back pain and discomfort: due to excess weight and child movement.

Fatigue and sleep issues: 38 weeks pregnant, while a comfortable position can be difficult to find.

At this stage, the expected parents can expect labor at any moment; Therefore, make sure your hospital bag is well-stocked.

Baby Development at 38 Weeks Pregnant

Your child has now entered its last quarter of pregnancy, and it is time to check what is happening inside its womb:

Size: This watermelon resembles a small watermelon in terms of its dimensions and size.

Weight: between 3.0 and 3.2 kg.

Length: 49-50 cm, and organs are fully developed and functional.

Lungs: Attractive and fully mature for breathing.

Brain and nervous system: Our bodies continue to expand at an astounding rate.

Reflexes: Powerful sucking, grasping, and rooting reflexes have taken hold.

At 38 weeks of gestation, your unborn baby may appear and behave just like an infant, ready and waiting to make their debut.

Baby’s Position in the Womb

By this week, most babies have moved into a head-down position.

Head-down (vertex) positioning: Ideal for birth.

Posterior Position: With your head turned towards your belly, this position could cause back labor. Breech position (bottom or feet first), though less frequent, sometimes persists past 38 weeks of gestation. At 38 weeks, if your baby’s head-down position has not changed, your physician may suggest monitoring or interventions such as external cephalic version (ECV).

38 Weeks Pregnant Ultrasound

Here’s what to expect during a 38 weeks ultrasound:

The baby is safe. Her position has been established. Placenta health is assessed, while amniotic fluid levels are measured. The baby’s heartbeat and breathing movements were reviewed. Estimated baby weight and size tracked. As you approach labor, this scan ensures all is in order.

Signs of Labor at 38 Weeks Pregnant

Labor could begin any moment now. Here are the most indicative signs that labor has begun at 38 weeks:

Regular contractions: Strong, rhythmic, and closer together.

Water Breakage: When amniotic fluid suddenly bursts open during labor.

Bloody Display: Disposing of a mucus plug infused with blood.

Increased pelvic pressure: Baby dropping further down.

Lower Back Pain: Persistent and more intense than expected.

If you experience these symptoms, call your physician or birth center immediately.

38 Weeks Pregnant Baby Weight in kg

In 38 weeks of the womb, your baby should usually weigh 3-4 kg (6.5-8 pounds). Average weight range: 3.0 to 3.2 kg. Some children can do slightly less or more weight, which is completely normal. Boys weigh, on average, more than their female counterparts. Your doctor will estimate your baby’s weight at 38 weeks via ultrasound measurements.

38 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms Not to Ignore

At 38 weeks pregnant, most symptoms should be normal; however, any unusual signs should not be ignored:

Do you experience severe headaches and blurred vision? These could be signs of preeclampsia. Swellings on hands, face, or feet require immediate evaluation. Substantial decrease in baby movement – If your infant’s movements decrease abruptly, seek medical advice immediately. Heavy Vaginal Bleeding – Seek medical assistance immediately if the bleeding persists or worsens. Leak of green or brown fluid – May indicate meconium contamination of the fluid. Trust your instincts; if something seems amiss, seek medical assistance immediately.

38 Weeks Pregnant: How Many Months?

At 38 weeks pregnant, you are in month 9 of your gestation.

Pregnancy usually lasts 40 weeks; however, full-term gestational periods range from 37 to 42 weeks. Labor can occur at any moment now, so you’ve reached the last hurdle!

Is 38 Weeks Safe for Delivery?

Yes, 38 weeks is considered safe for labor. Babies born at this stage tend to be full-term and typically healthy. People can breathe on their own. Feeding instincts are strong. Some individuals may require mild monitoring for blood sugar or jaundice. Though 39-40 weeks is considered optimal, most 38-week babies thrive without issue.

Is My Baby Fully Developed at 38 Weeks?

Yes, your baby has fully developed at 38 weeks of gestation. All major organs are functioning. Baby is learning the fundamentals of breathing and swallowing. Only two developments remain underway: Fat accumulation for warmth. Brain development. Doctors advise women to begin labor naturally in order to give the baby every possible advantage in terms of development and growth.

What Should I Avoid at 38 Weeks Pregnant?

What is the best way to avoid 38 weeks pregnancy for optimal health here:

To avoid foods: raw fish, undercooked meat, and unexpected cheese.

Alcohol and smoking: Both substances can damage the development of a child.

High-risk activities: heavy lifting, high-impact exercise, or long journeys.

Lack of stress and rest: Protection of energy for labor.

Pay attention to lots of hydration for gentle activities, healthy food, and optimal welfare.

Diet & Lifestyle Tips for Week 38

At week 38 pregnancy, diet and lifestyle play an even larger role.

Diet tips:

For optimal management of resentment, consume small amounts of food throughout the day. This can help keep symptoms under control and reduce their severity. Add iron-rich foods (spinach, lean meats, and legumes). Stay hydrated by drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Border processed and sugar snacks. Eat fiber-rich foods to manage constipation.

Lifestyle Tips:

Consider walking, prenatal yoga, or gentle exercise during your pregnancy. Whenever possible, relax and nap. Pillows provide the required abdominal and back support. Prepare your hospital bags and related documents. Practice breathing and relaxation. In 38 weeks, your body requires both nutrition and relaxation in the preparation for labor.

As you wrap up week 38, your body is just finishing its preparation for the main event: ovulation. The journey is just beginning, and what happens next is crucial.

Ready to find out about ovulation, fertilization, and the very first signs of development?

Continue to Week 39 Pregnant: Your Next Steps and What to Expect

FAQs About 38 Weeks Pregnant