Pregnancy week thirty-eight is an exciting one! You are into your last weeks of pregnancy, and your due date is fast approaching. You are now full term and could give birth at any moment, although many women do not give birth for another week or two.
You might feel frustrated this week, ready to burst, and anxious to meet your new baby. False contractions and breathing exercises can only keep you distracted for so long, so get out of the house on a little walk to clear your mind.
But what else is happening this week? That is what we are here to tell you! Keep reading for our complete guide to week thirty-eight of pregnancy, including the common symptoms and what an ultrasound might show.
What’s Coming Up In The Article?
- What Does It Mean To Be 38 Weeks Pregnant?
- Will You Get A Positive Pregnancy Test At 38 Weeks?
- Should You Get An Ultrasound At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
- Can You Detect A Heartbeat At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
- Is Pregnancy Viable At 38 Weeks?
- What Are The Common Symptoms When You Are 38 Weeks Pregnant?
- How Big Is A Baby At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Are The Common Miscarriage Symptoms At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Precautions Should I Take To Maintain My Health At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
- How Do You Calculate Your Due Date From 38 Weeks Pregnant?
- What Body Changes Should You Expect At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
- How Can You Prepare For Pregnancy?
Key Points
- Your baby is about the size of a winter melon
- Your baby is now fully developed
- Your baby’s lungs can breathe on their own
- Your baby is storing meconium ready for their first poo after birth
- You might experience Braxton Hicks contractions this week
- You might feel frustrated or fed up as your pregnancy draws to a close
- You might feel tired, notice cramping or headaches this week
- You might have a urine test to check for preeclampsia this week
- Your doctor might run through your options for induction if labour does not start naturally
What Does It Mean To Be 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Art, thirty-eight weeks pregnant, you are full term and could give birth anytime. Most women typically give birth in a few weeks, so don’t panic if your baby does not arrive yet. However, you might notice some signs that labour is on its way.
You could lose your mucus plug this week and will likely notice it in your underwear with other vaginal discharge. You might also experience practice contractions this week, known as Braxton Hicks. These painless contractions can last a minute or so and might feel like tightening across your bump. Speak to your doctor or midwife if you notice any pain or bleeding during these practice contractions. They are an excellent opportunity to practice breathing techniques, ready for labour!
You might be feeling uncomfortable this week; after all, you have been pregnant for months! An itchy belly can happen as your skin stretches around your baby and amniotic sac. This continues to grow as your baby and placenta gain weight; don’t panic if the numbers on the scales continue to rise.
At thirty-eight weeks pregnant, the end is near, but you will likely have a few more weeks before labour starts. Use this time to keep moving, prepare for when your baby arrives and gather any final pieces of advice that you need.
Will You Get A Positive Pregnancy Test At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You might not get a positive pregnancy test at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. Pregnancy tests measure the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels in your blood or urine to confirm a pregnancy. Your hCG levels rise dramatically during the first trimester of pregnancy before levelling off and falling in your second and third trimesters. At thirty-eight weeks pregnant, your hCG levels might have dropped too low to confirm a pregnancy despite being visibly pregnant and about to give birth!
An ultrasound can confirm a pregnancy if it has not already been confirmed.
Should You Get An Ultrasound At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You might be invited for an ultrasound this week if you still need to get your second third-trimester scan. You might also have an ultrasound if your doctor is monitoring your baby closely or if you have any complications. Some women also pay for a private ultrasound or 4D scan this week.
An ultrasound at thirty-eight weeks pregnant will show your baby fully developed. Your baby’s lungs are now fully developed and able to breathe independently, a great sign that they are ready for life outside your womb. Your baby’s development is complete now, although they might need to spend more time in your womb gaining weight. Their previously wrinkled skin will be filled out nicely, and they will look bigger than the last time you saw them.
Are There Any Other Scans Or Tests I Should Consider At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You will likely have an antenatal appointment this week, where your bump will be measured with a tape measure. Your blood pressure will also be checked to ensure it is not too high or too low.
You might also have a urine test to check for any protein in your urine. This can be a sign of preeclampsia, a dangerous condition. A common symptom of this is swelling, especially around your feet and ankles, so be sure to report any swelling to your doctor or midwife.
You might also be told about newborn screening tests at this appointment. These tests are offered in the first six. to eight weeks of your baby’s life to check for any conditions that could impact your baby. These tests are optional, and you can wait to make a decision about them.
Can You Detect A Heartbeat At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You can detect a heartbeat at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. Your baby’s heartbeat can be heard through an ultrasound, stethoscope, or Doppler machine. Your midwife will use a Doppler or stethoscope to monitor your baby’s heartbeat between ultrasounds and check for any abnormalities or cause for concern.
You can also listen to your baby’s heartbeat at home. You can use a Doppler machine or stethoscope to do this. Be mindful that if your baby moves a lot, it can be hard to position the Doppler machine or stethoscope correctly. Don’t panic if it takes a few minutes to get the positioning right and hear the heartbeat.
Your baby’s heartbeat will still beat quickly, with an average of 110 and 160 beats per minute.
Is Pregnancy Viable At 38 Weeks?
Pregnancy is viable at thirty-eight weeks. As you are now full term, you can give birth without the worries you would have had in previous weeks. Your baby might be a little small if born at thirty-eight weeks, but it can continue gaining weight outside the womb.
The chances of your baby developing a health condition are very low this week as your baby’s lungs, brain, and nervous system are fully developed. There might be some complications, but these will vary from woman to woman. An existing health condition might cause them, or there might be a concern for your baby where doctors plan a caesarean or induce labour. This can be scary, but don’t panic; your doctor and midwife will be on hand to explain everything to you.
At thirty-eight weeks pregnant, it is not concerning to give birth if you have had a healthy or uncomplicated pregnancy.
What Are The Common Pregnancy Symptoms At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-eight weeks pregnant, the common symptoms include false contractions, pains around your stomach, trouble sleeping, and headaches. Some women will experience pelvic pain or pressure on their pelvis when their baby drops into position ready for birth, too.
You might also feel frustrated or fed up this week. Your pregnancy is nearing the end but is not over yet, and your growing bump and any aches or pains leave you frustrated or uncomfortable. Try adding some gentle stretches into your day to help with this, or add extra pillows to make you comfortable when sitting or lying down.
These symptoms will vary from woman to woman and change daily, so don’t panic if your symptoms seem different to other pregnant women. This is normal!
Is There Any Change To HCG Levels At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Your hCG levels continue to fall at thirty-eight weeks pregnant, averaging between 940 and 60,000 u/L.
Should I Expect Any Cramping At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You might experience cramping at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. This can be round ligament pains on the side of your stomach, painless contractions, or the signs of early labour! Watch for any changes to the cramping and any other accompanying symptoms. Speak to your midwife or doctor if you have any concerns or if the cramping becomes extremely painful.
Will I Experience Morning Sickness At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Morning sickness is more common during the first sixteen weeks of pregnancy, but you might experience morning sickness or nausea at thirty-eight weeks pregnant.
Will My Breasts Feel Tender At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Your breasts might feel tender or sore this week. They might also leak colostrum, an early yellow milk full of antibodies. You can wear breast pads to keep yourself dry and your bras stain-free. You might also experience aching or full breasts as your first milk comes in.
Will I Have Food Cravings At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Food cravings can happen throughout your pregnancy, including at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. You might crave foods that you previously did not like or unusual combinations.
Will I Pass Urine More Frequently At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You might continue to pass urine more frequently at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. This depends on the positioning of your baby and if they are adding pressure to your bladder. You should continue to drink plenty of water, even if you need to pee what feels like every five minutes. You must remain hydrated and empty your bladder; you don’t want to develop an infection.
Will I Feel Tiredness Or Fatigue At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Tiredness or fatigue is common during pregnancy week thirty-eight. You might struggle to get comfortable during the night or stay awake, especially if you are anxious about the birth of your baby. Adding extra pillows or a pregnancy pillow can make you more comfortable. You can also speak to your midwife or doctor about your concerns to see what support they can give you.
Will I Feel Bloated At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You might feel bloated at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. Avoiding eating late at night and swapping your usual three meals for small meals throughout the day can help.
Will I Get A Headache At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Headaches are common throughout pregnancy, including at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. Typically, women who suffer from headaches before pregnancy will likely experience more headaches during pregnancy. You can use pain relief to help with headaches or speak to your doctor if you have concerns.
Will I Experience A Metallic Taste In My Mouth At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
A metallic taste in your mouth is more common during the first few months of pregnancy, but you can also experience it at thirty-eight weeks pregnant.
Will I Have A Heightened Sense Of Smell At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
A heightened sense of smell is common during the first trimester of pregnancy, but it can also happen during week thirty-eight of pregnancy.
Can You Experience Shortness Of Breath At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You might experience shortness of breath at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. Typically, this improves once your baby moves into the engaged position, ready for delivery, as it frees up space around your lungs. Speak to your doctor if your baby is engaged and you are still experiencing shortness of breath or become concerned about your breathing.
Is It Normal To Get Diarrhea At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Diarrhea is normal during pregnancy and, at this stage, can be a sign of early labour! Look out for other symptoms like cramping or your waters breaking. You can speak to your doctor about your diarrhea to rule out labour if you are concerned.
Monitor any diarrhea and speak to your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after forty-eight hours.
Can You Get Vaginal Discharge At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Vaginal discharge can happen throughout pregnancy, including at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. You might notice more discharge this week or that your mucus plug is part of the discharge, too. This is normal and a good sign that labour is on its way.
Any changes in your discharge’s colour, smell, or texture should be reported to your midwife or doctor, as this can be a sign of infection.
Will I Experience Lower Back Pain At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Lower back pain can happen at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. As your baby drops into position, extra pressure can be added to your back, which can cause lower back pain or backache. A hot or cold compress can provide some pain relief, along with gentle stretches. Speak to your doctor or midwife if you are concerned or struggling with back pain.
Will I Experience Mood Swings At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Mood swings are more common during the first trimester of pregnancy, but you can experience them at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. Changing hormone levels in your body and anxiety around labour are usually to blame for mood swings.
Is Spotting Normal At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Spotting can happen at thirty-eight weeks pregnant and should be reported immediately to your doctor or midwife. While it could be harmless, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Ensure you are checked out immediately to ensure nothing is wrong with you or your baby.
What Other Symptoms Are Common When 38 Weeks Pregnant?
The following symptoms are also common at thirty-eight weeks pregnant:
- Shinier and thicker hair
- Spotty and oily skin
- Brown patches or darkened skin on your face
- Vaginal infections
- Urine infections
- Swollen feet and hands
- Dizziness
- Raised basal temperature (feeling hot)
- Leg cramps
- Constipation
- Piles
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- Swollen and bleeding gums
- Stretch marks
How Big Is A Baby At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Your baby is now roughly 49.8cm long and is the length of a rhubarb stick from head to heel. Your baby’s skin might have some patches of fine hair, lanugo, that was covering them in the second trimester. Most of this will have disappeared by the time you deliver your baby.
Your baby’s digestive system now contains sticky green slime known as meconium. This will be in their bowls and is made from everything they have swallowed in your womb, including hair and amniotic fluid.
This green slime will be their first poo after they are born. Some babies do poo in labour, which is often a sign of distress. Your baby will be monitored closely if this happens, and you might need to spend some time in the hospital. Your doctor and midwife will be on hand to explain this to you and offer any support you might need.
Can You Feel The Baby At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
Yes, you can feel your baby at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. While there is less room in your womb, that hasn’t stopped your baby from moving. You should still track your baby’s movements, counting every kick and punch. You might find that your baby has a cycle where they are more active for several hours and then seem to rest. This is your baby falling into a sleeping and waking cycle; we recommend using this to get some rest, too!
Should you notice any changes in your baby’s movements, speak to your midwife or doctor immediately. A decrease in movements or baby movements suddenly stopping can be a sign of trouble. Be sure to get checked out immediately. It is better to be safe!
What Are The Common Symptoms Of Miscarriage At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-eight weeks pregnant, a miscarriage is classed as a stillbirth. The common symptoms include a decrease in your baby’s movements or movements stopping, bleeding, abdominal pain, and any pregnancy symptoms disappearing. For some women, these symptoms can start quickly; their waters might break, and they will deliver their baby. For others, they might not have any symptoms and won’t know they have lost their baby until they attend a midwife appointment or ultrasound.
You will need to deliver your baby at this stage in your pregnancy. This is usually done in a hospital, with medication offered to induce labour. You might be allowed to return home to wait for labour to start, but this depends on any complications you are experiencing.
Your doctor and midwife will be on hand to offer any advice and support. They can also help to set up long-term support for you at this difficult time.
What Are The Chances Of Miscarriage At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
The chances of a stillbirth in a healthy and uncomplicated pregnancy are low at thirty-eight weeks. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare found that 2.6 of every 1000 births were stillbirths in 2020. While this is higher than in other developed countries, there is still a low chance that you will have a stillbirth,
Of course, some factors increase your chance of a stillbirth at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. These include complications, health conditions, age, or weight. Your doctor can walk you through these factors and how they might relate to your pregnancy.
What Precautions Should I Take To Maintain My Health At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
The following precautions should be taken to maintain your health at thirty-eight weeks pregnant.
Take Prenatal Vitamins
Continue taking your prenatal vitamins this week to provide you and your baby with the necessary vitamins and nutrients. You can take a prenatal multivitamin; check the dosage to ensure it has everything you need. You can also ask your doctor for some advice if you are unsure what multivitamin to take.
We recommend looking for one with high iron or Vitamin D levels if you are pregnant through the winter.
Eat A Healthy Diet
You should eat a healthy and balanced diet this week, too. You want to fuel your body with the nutrients it needs and ensure that your baby is getting everything it needs. Your diet should be varied, consisting of lean protein, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables, and carbohydrates. You should incorporate fibre-rich foods, too, especially if you are suffering from constipation.
Try to eat small meals throughout the day instead of three large meals, too, as this can keep hunger at bay and prevent bloating. Your doctor might recommend that you eat an extra 200 calories in your third trimester, but there is no need to eat more than this.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water is important during pregnancy, too. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) found that drinking water during pregnancy helps form the amniotic fluid around your baby, aids digestion, and circulates nutrients.
The ACOG recommends drinking eight to twelve glasses of water daily to remain hydrated throughout pregnancy.
Stop Smoking
You should stop smoking if you have not already done so. Smoking is incredibly dangerous for both you and your baby during pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that smoking doubles your risk of abnormal bleeding during pregnancy and labour.
They found that smoking also increases your chance of congenital disabilities and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Speak to your doctor if you need help to stop smoking during pregnancy.
Are There Any Foods I Should Avoid At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
At thirty-eight weeks pregnant, the following foods should be avoided.
- Raw juices and smoothies
- Highly processed foods
- Soft cheeses
- Unpasteurised dairy and dairy products
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables
- Raw sprouts
- Organ meat
- Raw or undercooked eggs
- Deli or processed meat
- Raw or undercooked meat
- Raw or undercooked fish
- Seafood with high mercury content
Are There Any Drinks I Should Avoid At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You should avoid all alcoholic drinks at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists found that drinking alcohol during pregnancy can increase your chances of a miscarriage, affect the way your baby and its brain develops, and how your baby grows in your uterus.
It can also cause Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), which is an umbrella term for a range of behavioural, emotional, intellectual, and physical disabilities that can impact your child for life. You should speak to your doctor if you need help to stop drinking during pregnancy.
You should also reduce your caffeine intake during pregnancy. The Royal College of Midwives found that consuming 350mg or more of caffeine a day can cause low birth weight, preterm labour, or a stillbirth. They recommend reducing your caffeine intake to 200mg daily during pregnancy to prevent this.
Are There Any Supplements I Should Avoid At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You should avoid taking any supplements that your doctor has recommended that you take. Most supplements are labelled unsuitable for pregnant women as they could harm your baby. We recommend only taking supplements if your doctor tells you to.
Instead, focus on getting the nutrients you need from your diet and take prenatal vitamins.
Can I Exercise While 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You can exercise at thirty-eight weeks pregnant if you feel able to do so. At this stage in your pregnancy, a gentle walk might be all you feel up to or some light stretching. We recommend short, frequent walks to keep you active at the end of your pregnancy.
You should avoid high-impact or contact sports that could harm you or your baby. Yoga or swimming can also be good exercises at the end of your pregnancy, but make sure that any yoga position is safe for you to do. You don’t want to fall or hurt yourself.
Is It Safe To Travel When 38 Weeks Pregnant?
It is not advised that you travel to thirty-eight weeks pregnant. Most airlines will not allow pregnant women to fly past thirty-six weeks due to the risks it poses or that you could go into labour in the air.
You could go into labour at any point, so you want to be close enough to your doctor, midwife, or hospital. Speak to your doctor if you have travel plans that you must attend or cannot rearrange at thirty-eight weeks to see their advice.
Are There Any Acitivites I Should Avoid At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
The following activities should be avoided at thirty-eight weeks pregnant.
- Roller coasters, bumper cars, and water slides
- Motorcycles and four-wheelers
- Contact sports
- Diving
- Downhill skiing
- Gymnastics
- Hot Yoga
- Hot pilates
- Horseriding
- Hot tubs
- Sauna
- Scuba diving
- Skydiving
- Snowboarding
- Waterskiing
- Cleaning cat litter
- Horseriding
- Hot tubs
- Sauna
- Scuba diving
- Skydiving
- Snowboarding
- Waterskiing
- Cleaning cat litter
Is It Safe To Have Sex When 38 Weeks Pregnant?
It is considered safe to have sex at thirty-eight weeks pregnant unless you are told otherwise by your doctor or midwife.
How Should I Sleep At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
You might have trouble sleeping at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. Getting comfortable with your growing belly and aches or pains can be tricky. Adding a pillow between your knees or using a pregnancy pillow can help you get more comfortable during the night.
What Position Is It Safe To Sleep In When 38 Weeks Pregnant?
It is best to sleep on your side at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. This is considered the safest sleeping position as it does not add any pressure to your baby or placenta.
How Do You Calculate Your Due Date From 38 Weeks Pregnant?
The best way to calculate your due date is to use the date of your last menstrual period. This is the LMP method and is the most common way to calculate an estimated due date. Take the first day of your last period and count forward forty weeks or 280 days. You can use a cycle tracking app to see the date of your last period if you use it to track your cycle.
Your doctor or midwife will also give you an estimated due date. This is usually given during the first ultrasound, the dating scan. Your baby is measured, and their development is assessed to determine how far into your pregnancy you are. From this, you will be given an estimated due date. This might differ slightly from the one you calculated; don’t panic.
These due dates are simply estimates. Most women give birth before or after their due date, so there is no need to worry if your due date passes and your baby does not arrive.
What Body Changes Should You Expect At 38 Weeks Pregnant?
There are a few body changes to expect at thirty-eight weeks pregnant. You might lose your mucus plug this week if you have not already. You might also experience Braxton Hicks contractions this week. These painless contractions can feel uncomfortable and like your bump is tightening. They don’t last long, but you should speak to your midwife if you become concerned about any pain.
You might notice swelling this week, too. It can be harmless and part of pregnancy, but keep an eye out for any sudden swelling. This can be a sign of preeclampsia, a dangerous condition during pregnancy. Speak to your doctor when you notice any swelling to rule out preeclampsia.
You might notice that you gained weight this week. Your baby is busy gaining weight in your womb and adding to your amniotic fluid (by urinating into it). This can cause you to gain some weight this week but don’t worry. This is normal, and you should lose this weight after giving birth.
What Is Your Body Doing During This Process?
Your body is preparing to give birth this week. Your practice contractions are your body getting ready to give birth, along with losing your mucus plug. Your body is also pumping an increased blood flow around your body, providing blood to you and your baby.
This increased blood flow means that your blood flowing through your body is slower than usual. This can leave you feeling dizzy or lightheaded, especially if you stand up too quickly. Be sure to take your time as you move around this week.
How Can You Prepare For Pregnancy?
The following tips can help you to prepare for the next few weeks of pregnancy.
Pack Your Hospital Bag
It’s time to pack your hospital bag if you have not already. This bag will accompany you to a hospital or the birth centre and should contain everything you and your baby need during your stay. Pack items like clothing for you and your baby, toiletries, maternity pads, and any supplies you need to breastfeed or bottle-feed your baby.
Some moms-to-be also take snacks (who wants hospital food?) and a tablet or iPad if they are in longer than anticipated. Your midwife can advise you on what should be in your bag, or there are plenty of videos online that can be helpful. This video is our favourite.
Look At Your Birth Plan Alternatives
You will have probably confirmed your birth plan by now, but this is an excellent time to look at any alternatives. Should you pass your due date and not give birth, you will need to explore other options, like an induction or sweep. Inducing labor isn’t something every woman wants to have, but sometimes it is unavoidable, so it’s worth considering what options you would be happy with.
Your midwife or doctor will likely discuss this with you this week, so be prepared with plenty of questions to help you make the right decision. Remember, these plans can change, too; don’t worry if you change your mind.
Wash Your Baby’s Clothes
Before you dress your newborn, all their clothes must be washed. Why not get a head start and wash what you have bought this week? This way, should you go into labour early, you have plenty of outfits to choose from.
Check the washing instructions on the labels before washing your baby’s clothes and ensure you have suitable washing liquid and fabric softener. Your baby’s skin will be sensitive; you don’t want to irritate it!
Keep Moving
As much as possible, and unless advised otherwise, keep moving. Short, frequent walks will not only make you feel physically better, but they can help with any feelings of frustration, boredom, or anxiety. You might feel cooped up, especially if you have finished work, so getting out in the fresh air regularly will help with those feelings, making the last few weeks of pregnancy a little nicer for you. You should speak to your doctor or midwife if you find you are struggling with your mental health, too, as they can offer support.
Use Your Support Network
Remember to make use of your support network this week. Whether you have the sudden urge to clean your entire home, wash every item of clothing, or feel overwhelmed, your support network is there to help you, so use them!
Turn to your friends, family, or partner to share any worries, get some help cleaning, or anything else you might need this week. You can look further afield for support, too. There are plenty of social media pages and apps you can use to find other expecting or new mothers in your area that could become your friends, offering support, advice, and anything you need.
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy week thirty-eight brings you one step closer to meeting your baby! While baby development should be complete, they still need some time to gain weight in your womb, so don’t worry if your baby does not arrive this week. Instead, you will have practice contractions to keep you company as your body prepares for labour and birth. Speak to your midwife or doctor about any concerns you might have, and soon enough, your baby will be in your arms!