Trimester 3
37 Weeks Pregnant
In week 37, your baby is putting on weight quickly and fine-tuning their lung and brain function. They are becoming more responsive to light and sound from the outside world as they prepare for the big transition to life outside.
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Your baby is the size of a Swiss chard bunch
49 cm
Length
2.9 kg
Weight
Week 1Week 13 - End of Trimester 1Week 27Week 42
Baby's Development This Week
In week 37, your baby is putting on weight quickly and fine-tuning their lung and brain function. They are becoming more responsive to light and sound from the outside world as they prepare for the big transition to life outside.
- The baby is now 'early term' — nearly ready for birth.
- Brain and lung maturation continues.
- The baby practices breathing, sucking, and gripping.
- Fat stores are sufficient for temperature regulation.
- The baby gains about 1/2 ounce of fat per day.
- About 48.6cm — the size of a bunch of Swiss chard.
Your Symptoms at Week 37
As you progress through week 37, you may feel more physical strain as your baby grows. Back pain and difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position are common. Keep your feet up when you can and take pride in how far you've come in this incredible process.
Lightning crotch (sharp pelvic pain)
Caused by baby pressing on nerves; change positions. (moderate)
Caused by baby pressing on nerves; change positions. (moderate)
Nesting urge (intense)
Organize and prepare, but avoid heavy lifting. (mild)
Organize and prepare, but avoid heavy lifting. (mild)
Mucus plug discharge
Normal — your body is preparing. Call if heavy bleeding. (mild)
Normal — your body is preparing. Call if heavy bleeding. (mild)
Diarrhea
May signal labor approaching; stay hydrated. (mild)
May signal labor approaching; stay hydrated. (mild)
Difficulty sleeping
Rest in short naps; your body is getting ready. (severe)
Rest in short naps; your body is getting ready. (severe)
When to Call Your Doctor
- Regular contractions 5 minutes apart lasting 1 minute for 1 hour (5-1-1 rule)
- Water breaks — note color, time, and amount
- Heavy bleeding (more than spotting)
- Baby not moving normally
- Severe headache or swelling
Week 37 Checklist
- ✓Attend weekly prenatal visits (essential)
- ✓Review labor signs one more time with your partner (essential)
- ✓Make sure your phone is always charged (recommended)
- ✓Set up postpartum support (meals, help with older children) (recommended)
- ✓Rest and conserve energy for labor (recommended)
Frequently Asked Questions
Continue Your Pregnancy Journey — Week 37
← →
Week 36 of Pregnancy
Review what happened last week with your baby's development
← →
Week 38 of Pregnancy
What's coming next week — new developments and symptoms to expect
Guide
Third Trimester Overview
Everything happening during your third trimester — symptoms, tests, and milestones
Symptom
Braxton Hicks Contractions
How to tell practice contractions from the real thing
Symptom
Swollen Feet & Ankles
Normal swelling vs. warning signs of preeclampsia
Tool
Contraction Timer
Time contractions to know when to head to the hospital
Related
Group B Strep Test
Routine test between weeks 35–37 — what a positive result means
Nutrition
Third Trimester Nutrition
Foods for energy, labor prep, and healthy final weight gain
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance about your pregnancy.