At 38 weeks pregnant, you are very close to birth. The baby is often head down now, and labour can start at any point, although some pregnancies continue for a little longer before delivery begins.
This week follows 37 weeks pregnant and leads into 39 weeks pregnant. If you want to compare dates or due date estimates, use the pregnancy calculator.
The baby may be around 48-50 cm long and weigh roughly 3 kg, although size estimates vary. The body is rounder, the skin is smoother and the baby is close to the size and maturity needed for life outside the womb.
Many babies are already in a head-down position and can react to light, sound and touch. Movements may feel tighter and more like strong pushes than big rolls because there is much less room.
The lungs, brain and digestive system are still finishing late maturation, but the baby is now considered ready for birth in many care systems. Exact timing still depends on your pregnancy and your provider's guidance.
Pelvic pressure, back pain, tightening contractions, increased discharge and frequent urination are all common now. Some people also notice the mucus plug, a change in bowel habits or a strong sense that birth is getting close.
It can be harder to move around, stand up from a sofa or sleep comfortably. If you have waters breaking, bleeding, regular painful contractions, severe pain or reduced movement later in pregnancy, contact your maternity team promptly.
At this stage, small changes can matter more. When in doubt, call the birth unit or your midwife rather than trying to guess whether symptoms are normal labour or something that needs review.
Head down means the baby is in a vertex position with the head nearest the birth canal.
Mucus plug is the thick mucus that helps seal the cervix during pregnancy and may come away before labour.
Labour signs include regular contractions, waters breaking and other changes that may mean birth is starting.
Thirty-eight weeks pregnant is often described as about 9 months pregnant, but weeks are more precise than months.
38 weeks pregnant is in the third trimester.
Many babies are head down by 38 weeks, and that is the usual position for birth. Your provider can confirm presentation at an appointment if needed.
Labour signs can include regular contractions, waters breaking, increasing pelvic pressure, back pain or a change in vaginal discharge. If you are unsure, call for advice.
Call promptly for bleeding, fluid leakage, severe pain, reduced movement later in pregnancy, or contractions that are becoming regular and stronger.
