Your baby
Your baby's central nervous system and lungs are continuing to mature, getting closer to ready for life outside the womb. The waxy vernix coating on the skin is getting thicker to protect them in the amniotic fluid. Your baby's fingernails have reached the tips of their fingers, and their movements remain strong even as space gets tighter.
Your body
You may feel increased pressure in your pelvis as your baby settles lower, along with ongoing back and hip discomfort. Fatigue, swelling, and Braxton Hicks contractions are all common at this stage. Some people notice more vivid dreams, which is a normal part of late pregnancy.
This week
Keep your prenatal appointments, as your provider will be watching your baby's position and your progress closely now. Rest with your feet up when you can, and lean on your support people for help with daily tasks. Reviewing the early signs of labor now will help you feel more prepared and calm when the time comes.
Try our baby size tool, due date calculator, and food safety checker, and book your prenatal care with Garden OB/GYN across Brooklyn, NYC, and Long Island.
Book your prenatal visitAbout this guide
This page is general educational information, compiled from publicly available guidance from trusted medical sources, including the NHS and MedlinePlus. It is not medical advice from Garden OB/GYN or its providers, and it is not a substitute for care from your own clinician. Every pregnancy is different, so always talk with your OB/GYN about your specific situation. See our full medical disclaimer.
