Trimester 3
Week 37
Your baby is about the size of a large cucumber.
Length: 48.6 cm · Weight: 2900 g
Common this week: Pelvic pressure, Nesting urge, Mucus plug loss, Back pain, Braxton Hicks, Restlessness.
Baby development
- Full term begins at 37 weeks (previously 38 — check with your provider).
- The brain continues to develop — it will nearly triple in weight in the first year.
- The baby is practising all the skills needed for life outside the womb.
- Grasping reflex, rooting, and sucking are all active.
Changes for you
- You are full term — the baby could arrive any day.
- Cervical changes (effacement and dilation) may be occurring.
- Bloody show and mucus plug loss are signs labour may be near.
- Nesting may feel urgent and intense.
Tips
- Know the signs of labour: regular contractions, water breaking, bloody show.
- When in doubt — call your hospital. That's what they're there for.
- Stay hydrated and eat lightly if contractions start.
- Try to rest while you can — labour is a marathon.
Appointments
- Weekly antenatal check.
Warning signs
- Heavy bleeding
- Water breaking
- Regular contractions every 5 minutes
- Severe headache
- Decreased fetal movement
Australian notes
- RANZCOG defines full term as 37–41+6 weeks. Early term (37–38+6) babies may face some additional respiratory challenges compared to those born at 39–40 weeks.
- Do not drive yourself to hospital if in active labour. Have your partner or call 000.