← All 37 weeks
At 38 weeks your baby is about the size of a leek

Third trimester · Weeks 28 to 40

38 Weeks Pregnant

Your baby is about the size of a leek.

Length

19.6"

Weight

6.8 lb

To go

2 wks

Week 4You are here · week 38Week 40
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Your baby

What is developing at 38 weeks

Your baby has a firm, reflexive grasp and continues to shed most of the fine downy hair called lanugo, though some may remain at birth. Your baby's organs are nearly ready to work on their own, though the lungs and brain are still maturing, which is why providers wait for labor rather than scheduling an early delivery without a medical reason. Your baby keeps adding fat that gives the skin a smoother, fuller look. The brain and nervous system are still developing right up until birth and well beyond.

Your body

What you may be feeling

You may feel heavy and ready, with ongoing pelvic pressure, swelling, and contractions that come and go. Some people experience a burst of energy or the urge to clean and organize, often called nesting, while others feel mostly tired and achy. Trouble sleeping is very common now, so rest in short stretches whenever your body allows.

This week

Tips for week 38

Keep doing your daily fetal movement checks and call your provider if you notice a meaningful decrease, since your baby should stay active even with less room. Review your plan for getting to the hospital or birth center and who will be with you. Eat balanced meals, stay hydrated, and try gentle walks or stretching to stay comfortable while you wait.

Following along week by week?

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.

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About 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.