Overview of Week 37
As you approach the final stretch of pregnancy, welcome to the 37th week! This stage brings with it a mix of excitement and discomfort, as your body prepares for the imminent arrival of your little one. In this guide, we’ll cover your physical changes, your baby’s development, and the signs of labor.
Physical Changes at 37 Weeks Pregnant
Discomfort Levels Rise
At this point in your pregnancy, many mothers experience an array of sensations, ranging from fatigue to bursts of nervous energy. It’s essential to prioritize rest; those last-minute tasks can often be handled online from the comfort of your home. As labor approaches, maintaining your energy levels is crucial. Though finding a comfortable sleeping position might be challenging, try to relax whenever possible — it will benefit you later.
Cognitive Changes and Mood Fluctuations
You might already be familiar with the phenomenon known as “pregnancy brain.” Symptoms such as forgetfulness and a lack of focus can become more pronounced during the third trimester. While this can be frustrating as you prepare for your baby’s arrival, rest assured that these cognitive changes are normal and temporary.
Baby’s Development at 37 Weeks
Your baby is now roughly the size of a tray of lasagna, weighing around 6.5 pounds and measuring about 19 inches in length. Although officially classified as “full-term,” it’s best for your baby to remain in the womb a little longer if possible. If they haven’t assumed the head-down position yet, consult your healthcare provider for techniques to encourage this position and avert a breech birth.
Your developing baby is reaching significant milestones. Their facial muscles are fully formed, promising a range of adorable expressions in the near future. Additionally, their lungs are now prepared for air, which is vital for their first moments outside the womb. While nestled in your belly, they are busy blinking, shifting around, inhaling amniotic fluid, and even sucking their thumb.
Health Symptoms at Week 37
Cervical Changes
As your body readies itself for labor, your cervix may begin to dilate and efface. Throughout your pregnancy, a mucus plug has secured the cervix to prevent bacteria from entering the uterus. At this stage, losing the mucus plug indicates that your cervix is preparing for childbirth. However, this process can take time; the loss of the plug does not signal an immediate trip to the hospital, as labor may still be days or weeks away.
Understanding False Labor
You may have experienced Braxton Hicks contractions, which are often referred to as “practice contractions.” However, at 37 weeks, you might also experience false labor, which can mimic the signs of true labor. While Braxton Hicks contractions are generally painless and irregular, false labor can be more intense and sporadic. A key differentiator is changing positions; if the cramping subsides, it’s likely false labor. Always feel free to reach out to your healthcare provider with any concerns.
Pelvic Discomfort
As your baby’s head descends into your pelvis, you may feel increased pressure on your hips, bladder, and lower back. This discomfort is common in the final month of pregnancy, affecting up to 80 percent of expectant mothers. While complete relief may be elusive, using a pregnancy support belt can help alleviate some of the strain.
Twin Pregnancies
For those expecting twins, week 37 may signify either the end of your pregnancy or the onset of labor. Twins typically arrive two to four weeks earlier than singletons due to a variety of factors, including the body’s response to a larger pregnancy. As you approach delivery, you should be focusing on rest and relaxation.
When labor begins, you may experience your water breaking, which can feel like a trickle or a gush. If you notice this fluid, take note of the time and start timing your contractions. Early labor contractions usually last between 30-60 seconds with breaks of 5-20 minutes in between. As labor progresses, these intervals will shorten. Don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare team for guidance; they will be there to support you through this process.
Conclusion
As you navigate week 37, it’s essential to stay informed and ready for the exciting journey ahead. Your body is undergoing significant changes, and so is your baby. For additional insights on cost-effective options for home insemination, check out our previous blog post here. For comprehensive resources on pregnancy and donor insemination, visit American Pregnancy and Make A Mom.
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