37th Week of Pregnancy – What To Expect
The 37th week of pregnancy is a time when expectant parents are eagerly anticipating the arrival of their precious little bundle of joy. As the baby prepares to enter the world, a series of changes will be occurring to both mother and baby. There is a lot of excitement in the air, but it may also be a time of mixed emotions as the precious life inside of you wonders if it should stay in the cozy, warm environment of the mother’s womb.
Physical Changes for Mother
This week marks the end of the third trimester and it is normal to feel uncomfortable and tired. Physical changes for mother include:
- Increase in Braxton Hicks contractions
- Swelling
- Pain and discomfort
- Nutritional needs
It is important to pay attention to what your body is telling you and take extra care of yourself by eating a nutritious diet and resting as much as possible.
What to Expect for Baby
The baby is most likely engaged position and will be in full term mode during this week and can enter the world at any time. The baby is continuing to develop and grow and you can expect the following:
- The baby will now measure between 19 and 20 inches in length
- Weight of the baby can vary between 6 and 9 pounds
- Strong reflexes and faster movements within the womb
- Fully formed digestive systems and kidneys
What Needs to be Done?
At this point, it is important to make sure that all final preparations for the big day have been completed. This includes
- Making sure that the hospital bag and baby’s bag is packed and ready to go
- Having a list of phone numbers handy
- Double-checking if you require any additional special equipment
- Knowing the route to the hospital
As your 37th week of pregnancy draws to a close, resting as much as possible will be of utmost importance. Taking a break and allowing your body to relax and have some much-needed time to prepare for the arrival of your little one.
Congratulations on the 37th week of your pregnancy!
What signs indicate that labor is near in 37th week of pregnancy?
1. Dropping of the baby: You might feel the baby drop lower in the abdomen, typically referred to as ‘lightening’.
2. Increased Braxton-Hicks contractions: Women typically start to experience an increase in Braxton-Hicks contractions in the weeks before they go into labor.
3. Regular or frequent contractions/change in the pattern of contractions: You may feel these contractions as waves of tightening in the lower pelvic area.
4. A ‘bloody show’: This is when the mucus plug that has sealed the cervix during pregnancy comes loose and is expelled.
5. A burst of energy: Your body may prepare for labor by giving you an extra energy boost.
6. Water breaking: This is when the amniotic sac surrounding your baby breaks, and its membranes rupture releasing amniotic fluid.
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