Trimester 3
Week 38
Your baby is about the size of a small watermelon.
Length: 49.8 cm · Weight: 3100 g
Common this week: Pelvic pressure, Braxton Hicks, Fatigue, Backache, Mucus show, Anxiety.
Baby development
- The lungs are fully mature and ready to breathe air.
- The baby continues to gain about 30 g per day.
- Most of the lanugo has disappeared; vernix may still be present in creases.
- Meconium (first poo) is fully formed in the intestines.
Changes for you
- Every day feels like a waiting game.
- Cervix continues to efface and may begin to dilate.
- You may notice stronger, more regular Braxton Hicks.
- Some women feel a surge of energy (the "nesting" last burst) just before labour.
Tips
- Stay close to home and keep your phone charged.
- Time your contractions using a contraction timer app.
- Eat light, easily digestible meals.
- Let your support person know to be on standby.
Appointments
- Weekly antenatal check.
Warning signs
- Decreased fetal movement — always call your hospital immediately
- Heavy bleeding
- Water breaking (especially if green/brown coloured)
- Severe headache
Australian notes
- Amniotic fluid that is green or brown (meconium-stained) is an obstetric emergency — call 000 immediately.
- The Pregnancy, Birth and Baby helpline (1800 882 436) is staffed 24/7 by midwives if you have any concerns.