37 Weeks Pregnant

Your baby at 37 weeks

Your baby is now considered early term and is busy rehearsing the skills needed for life outside the womb, including breathing motions, sucking, and gripping. They continue to add a little fat each day, and the lungs and brain are still maturing in these final weeks, which is why every extra day of pregnancy counts. Coordination is improving, and your baby may have a surprisingly strong grasp.

Your body this week

You might feel increased pelvic pressure, more frequent trips to the bathroom, and surges of Braxton Hicks contractions as your body prepares. Some people notice the loss of the mucus plug or a stringy, blood-tinged discharge known as bloody show, which can be an early sign that labor may be approaching, though it can still be days or weeks away. Fatigue, swelling in the feet and ankles, and difficulty sleeping are all common this week.

Tips for week 37

Learn the difference between true labor and practice contractions: true labor tends to grow stronger, longer, and closer together and does not ease with rest or position changes. Keep your phone charged, your car ready, and your support people on call. Continue your daily movement counts and reach out to your provider right away if your water breaks, contractions become regular, or you have any concerns.