Week 37 of Pregnancy
Baby practises breathing and sucking
Your baby is the size of a
Bundle of ugu leaves
(Swiss chard bunch) · approximately 48.6 cm
🌟 Baby's Development at Week 37
The baby is practising essential life skills: breathing, sucking, gripping, and blinking. The brain and lungs continue to mature. Fat continues to accumulate, especially around the elbows, knees, and shoulders. The baby's head circumference is nearly the same as the abdominal circumference. The immune system continues to develop.
Length
48.6 cm
Weight
2859 g (about 2.9 kg)
💚 Your Body at Week 37
You may notice increased vaginal discharge. The mucus plug that has sealed your cervix during pregnancy may start to come away (bloody show). Contractions may become more frequent but are likely still Braxton Hicks unless they become regular.
Common Symptoms
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Possible mucus plug loss
- Pelvic pressure and pain
- Braxton Hicks contractions
- Difficulty walking
- Extreme fatigue
- Nesting urge
💡 Tips for Week 37
Keep your hospital bag by the door. Make sure your phone is always charged. Have a clear plan for getting to the hospital, including a backup plan. If you have other children, arrange for their care during your hospital stay. Rest as much as possible.
🥘 Nutrition Advice
Continue eating dates daily. Maintain a balanced diet with plenty of fluids. Red raspberry leaf tea (available in some health food stores) may help tone the uterus in preparation for labour. Keep light snacks ready for early labour: crackers, biscuits, glucose sweets, and water. Coconut water is excellent for hydration.
🏥 What to Ask Your Doctor
Understand the difference between Braxton Hicks and real labour contractions. Real contractions are regular, get closer together, last longer, and become more intense. If your water breaks or you have regular contractions 5 minutes apart for an hour, head to the hospital.
Medical Disclaimer
This tool is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your pregnancy or health condition.