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Discover what happens during week 38 of third trimester. Baby development, body changes, symptoms, and a weekly checklist.
Just half a month to go! You are nearing full term, which means your little bundle of joy will be here any time! Pamper yourselves as much as you can, before all the attention is grabbed by the newcomer!
Third Trimester is a time of rapid change — for both you and your baby. Every pregnancy is unique, and the information below will help you understand what's happening and how to prepare for the weeks ahead.
Your uterus places significant pressure across the pelvis, hips, bladder, and lower back. Hormones continue softening joints and preparing the cervix while the body conserves energy for labor and delivery. Your center of gravity remains significantly shifted forward now.
You may feel stronger downward pressure, tighter stretching sensations, or more noticeable contractions. Changes in discharge, appetite, sleep, or energy levels can also become more noticeable now.
The lungs and brain continue refining key functions, even though most major development is complete. Your baby practices breathing motions, gripping, blinking, and swallowing regularly throughout the day. Space inside the uterus is now extremely limited.
Each week brings new things to prepare for. Here's what expecting parents during week 38 typically track in the BabySteps Companion app. Items are sorted by priority so you can focus on what matters most.
Finish setting up your cozy nursing station – a haven of comfort and bonding with your baby.
Dive deeper into pain management techniques for both labor and postpartum. You're adding tools to your superhero toolkit!
You can expect to see your specialist every week until your little one is in your arms. At these visits, your doctor will check your weight, blood pressure, and urine. They will also listen to your baby's heartbeat and do ultrasounds to check the baby's development.
Scoop up those final essentials from your registry. It's like the ultimate baby shopping spree before showtime!
Shop for postpartum essentials – think comfy loungewear and all the pampering goodies you deserve.
Get reminders, mark items as done, and never miss a step.
Get week-by-week guidance tailored to your role, health & history, symptoms, and stage of pregnancy.
Every pregnancy is different, but these are some of the most common sensations women report during week 38. Your experience is valid — whether you feel all of these or none at all.
Pregnancy can lead to changes in your cervix, the lower part of the uterus. As pregnancy progresses, the cervix may become softer, higher, and more closed. These changes are normal and help support your growing baby. However, if you experience any unusual discharge, bleeding, or pain, it's important to contact your healthcare provider.
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Your growing uterus puts pressure on your bladder, which can make you feel like you need to pee more often. While frequent urination is normal, it's essential to stay hydrated and empty your bladder regularly to prevent urinary tract infections. If you experience pain, burning, or other symptoms along with frequent urination, consult your healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment.
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Trouble sleeping, including difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and anxiety. To improve sleep quality, establish a relaxing bedtime routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. If sleep problems persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance on managing symptoms safely during pregnancy.
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Swelling or edema in the ankles and feet is common during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and pressure on the blood vessels from the growing uterus. To reduce swelling, elevate your legs when possible, avoid standing or sitting for long periods, and stay hydrated. If swelling is sudden or severe, particularly in the face or hands, consult your healthcare provider, as it could be a sign of preeclampsia.
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The rupture of the amniotic sac, known as the water breaking, is a sign that labor may soon begin. This can happen as a gush of fluid or a trickle. If you suspect your water has broken, contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital for evaluation, especially if you're near your due date or experiencing contractions.
Read moreAsk BabySteps AI and get guidance based on your pregnancy stage.
Learn more about what to expect with expert-guided videos and articles curated for this stage of your pregnancy.
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