Pregnancy week 37

Your baby’s development

Week 37 is the start of "term", when your baby is considered ready for birth. From now to 38+6 is called early term. Your baby is about 48.6 cm long and weighs around 2859 g, roughly a bunch of Swiss chard. The organs, especially the lungs, are making their final preparations for life after birth. Your baby is still gaining weight and storing fat. The grip has become strong, and the fingers can close tightly. Most of the fine body hair has gone, and the vernix layer may begin to thin. In most babies the head has settled into the pelvis. The pattern of movement may have changed, but your baby should still be moving. As your body gets ready for labour to begin in its own time, you can try to greet the long-awaited moment with patience. From this week on, labour starting is regarded as normal for your baby's health, yet every baby has its own calendar.

Changes in the mother

From this week your baby's birth is no longer considered early. This means that if contractions or your waters breaking begin, your baby is ready, although for most people birth still happens a few weeks later. As your body prepares you may notice pelvic pressure, more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions, the passing of the mucus plug, a thicker discharge, or looser stools. These can mean labour is near but cannot predict the hour. True labour contractions come at regular intervals, grow closer and stronger, and do not ease with rest. If your waters break, note the colour and time and call your healthcare provider or hospital. Relaxation, breathing and comfort techniques can help now. Remember that labour could start at any time and make sure your bag, documents and travel plan are ready.

To do this week

• Learn to time your contractions to see whether they are regular.
• Clarify with your provider the signs of labour and when to go to hospital.
• Check that your bag, documents and car seat are ready.
• Keep your phone charged and write emergency numbers somewhere visible.

Tip for the partner

Keeping your phone charged and nearby and the bag close to the car is the most practical support in these days.

Nutrition tip

For energy during labour, have easy-to-digest carbohydrate snacks and water ready.