Trimester 3
38 Weeks Pregnant
In week 38, 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 Leek
50 cm
Length
3.1 kg
Weight
Week 1Week 13 - End of Trimester 1Week 27Week 42
Baby's Development This Week
In week 38, 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 fetus sheds the remaining vernix and lanugo into the amniotic fluid.
- The baby swallows the amniotic fluid, contributing to meconium (first stool).
- Firm grasp reflex is established.
- All organ systems are mature and functional.
- The baby's head circumference is nearly equal to the abdomen.
- About 49.8cm — the size of a leek.
Your Symptoms at Week 38
As you progress through week 38, 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.
Pelvic pressure and pain
Birthing ball, warm baths, and rest. (severe)
Birthing ball, warm baths, and rest. (severe)
Braxton Hicks (frequent)
Practice breathing; they may be harder to distinguish from real labor. (moderate)
Practice breathing; they may be harder to distinguish from real labor. (moderate)
Insomnia
Rest when you can; your body is preparing. (severe)
Rest when you can; your body is preparing. (severe)
Swelling
Elevate feet; drink plenty of water. (moderate)
Elevate feet; drink plenty of water. (moderate)
Anxiety and excitement
Focus on relaxation techniques; talk about your feelings. (moderate)
Focus on relaxation techniques; talk about your feelings. (moderate)
When to Call Your Doctor
- Contractions following the 5-1-1 pattern
- Water breaking (even a slow trickle)
- Decreased fetal movement
- Heavy bleeding
- Feeling of intense pressure like you need to push
Week 38 Checklist
- ✓Attend weekly prenatal visit (essential)
- ✓Review your hospital route and backup plan (essential)
- ✓Finalize who will be in the delivery room (recommended)
- ✓Have newborn essentials ready at home (essential)
- ✓Consider perineal massage to reduce tearing risk (optional)
Frequently Asked Questions
Continue Your Pregnancy Journey — Week 38
← →
Week 37 of Pregnancy
Review what happened last week with your baby's development
← →
Week 39 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.