What happens at 38 weeks pregnant?

At 38 weeks, your baby-to-be has inched further down your pelvis, compressing your bladder. This makes bathroom visits a frequent part of your daily routine. At the same time, your baby might be leaning on various nerves, causing sporadic pain and numbness in your legs, rear, and back. 1 

What is considered full term at 38 weeks?

A pregnancy is considered full term at 39 weeks. From 37 weeks through 38 weeks and 6 days, babies are considered “early term.” 7  While a baby is just about ready for birth at 38 weeks, there is still some last-minute development going on during that last week or two in the uterus.

What happens to mucus plug at 38 weeks pregnant?

edema (swelling), especially in feet and ankles increase in vaginal discharge Around 38 weeks pregnant, you may lose your mucus plug — the glob of mucus (there’s really no better way to describe it, honestly) that protects your cervix from infection.

How much should a newborn weigh at 38 weeks?

In fact, a healthy newborn’s length (height) can range from 17 3/4 inches (45 centimeters) to nearly 22 inches (55 centimeters), 3  while their birth weight can be between 5 1/2 pounds (2,500 grams) to 10 pounds (4,500 grams). 4  By week 38, your baby is shedding the soft, fine hair (known as lanugo) that covers their body in utero.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtL51n0mxeY

At 38 weeks pregnant your doctor may perform a routine blood pressure check and test your urine for protein deposits that could indicate complications like preeclampsia. Your baby could come at any time now, so it’s important that you feel as prepared as possible to give birth. Remember, your due date is just a guideline.

What is meconium at 38 weeks pregnant?

Meconium is a slimy substance that is made up of anything your baby may have swallowed in the uterus. The biggest change you might notice in your body at 38 weeks pregnant is an increase in pressure in your lower abdomen. Around this time is when your baby will start to change its position in the womb; with the head facing downward in the pelvis.

Is nausea a sign of Labor at 38 weeks?

Nausea. Some slight nausea can crop up again at 38 weeks pregnant or in the following weeks, and it can sometimes be a sign that labor is starting. If you’re feeling queasy, try to eat several smaller meals throughout the day, and stick to bland foods like bananas, rice, or toast.