What changes are occurring with your body at 37 weeks pregnant?
If you have been measuring your uterus throughout your pregnancy, you may notice a few week-to-week changes at 37 weeks pregnant. You will most likely not experience significant weight gain from this point on. Your total weight gain should be around 25 to 35 pounds (11.3 to 15.9 kg). The amount of amniotic fluid begins to decline around 37 weeks. Braxton Hicks contractions also increase in frequency. As your body begins to prepare for labor, your cervix will begin to dilate and efface. You will also pass the mucus plug, which blocked the opening of the cervix to prevent bacteria from entering during your pregnancy. Passing a mucus plug is a sign that your cervix is dilating, and your body is starting to prepare for birth. Labor could be hours, days, or even weeks away as the cervix gradually opens.
How big is your baby at 37 weeks?
Your baby is probably about 18 inches (45.7 cm) long and weighs 6 to 7 pounds (2.7 to 3.2 kg).
What is happening with your baby?
Even though your baby is considered full-term after after your 37th week of pregnancy, it is still better in most situations for the baby to remain in the womb until ready. If your baby is not in the head-down position, you should talk with your health care provider and partner regarding the various options that are available. There are several methods to help babies turn, including both natural and medical techniques. For more information regarding breech presentation and turning your baby, please see breech births.
What should you plan for pregnancy week 37?
You should be finishing up childbirth classes and taking care of any other preparations for your baby. Make sure your bags are packed, and you may want to practice driving to the hospital just to be on the safe side.
Tips for making your pregnancy better:
Basically, you are in a waiting game from this point on. However, just because you do not know when the big day will come, this does not mean you cannot prepare now. If there are any last-minute preparations that need to be completed before the arrival of your baby, now is a good time to finish these up. Some women also like to make sure things are in order, including cleaning the house or apartment.
When you first arrive back at home with your baby, life may feel quite chaotic. To better prepare yourself for this transition, it can be a good idea to have a supply of take-out menus available so a quick dinner can be ordered. Maybe you love to cook and can prepare several meals that can be frozen and eaten once you and the baby are back at home.
Tips for mom’s partner:
Is there anything you can help your partner with when she’s 37 weeks pregnant? Has she repeatedly asked you to put the crib together or finish painting the nursery? Perhaps there is another household chore she would like you to do or needs your assistance with. Or maybe you have done a great job in keeping up with her “honey-do” list, and you just need to take her out for one last “date” before the baby comes.
