What happens during pregnancy week 37?

If you are 37 weeks pregnant, you need to know that you could be welcoming the baby any day now since your baby is currently full-term! This means that the baby is big enough and can survive outside the womb with no issues. You are currently 9 months pregnant!

If you are expecting twins. Higher chances are you’ll give birth during this week. Most babies are facing the pelvis, preparing to leave the womb at any time. Regardless if your baby is still not facing downwards, it’s not a cause for concern because it will happen soon.

Your baby’s development

During this week, your baby’s weight averages at 6 pounds which is similar to Swiss chard. Even though your baby won’t be kicking as much, you will still feel it stretching since the baby grows bigger as each week passes.

Right now the baby can inhale the amniotic fluid, suck his or her thumb and blink! Lastly, the baby’s head is huge at week 37 and it will continue to grow as time passes.

Common signs and symptoms during week 37

Here are the main symptoms you’ll experience during week 37:

1. Pelvic pain since the baby is sitting on top of your pelvis.

2. You may experience difficulty in breathing since your baby could be pressing against your lungs.

3. Nausea

4. Imbalance and clumsiness

5. Contractions

What can you do to prepare for your unborn baby?

1. You can practice labour positions to make the process more familiar.

2. You can research feeding options for your child

3. You can get help from your family and friends during this time with chores and so on

4. You can visit your doctor to ensure everything is fine and your pregnancy is safe.

You can visit us at Jacaranda Maternity hospital. During the visit you’ll have your vitals and physical examination taken. The midwife will ask you how frequently your baby is moving, information about signs of labour and danger signs. If possible discuss postdate planning and scheduling of post-date induction of labour. Presentation ultrasound (a third ultrasound that checks the position of your baby and whether the baby is in breech position) will be done and a HIV test.