Week 37 of Pregnancy
You’ve officially reached early term, which means baby is nearly full-term and could arrive any time in the coming weeks. While labor might not start just yet, your body is making noticeable shifts to prepare. You may be feeling more pressure in your pelvis, experiencing stronger Braxton Hicks contractions, or noticing increased discharge. Now is the time to finalize birth plans, rest when you can, and stay tuned into your body’s signals. You’re in the final stretch!
Baby’s Size
Your baby is about the size of a Daikon Radish.
Baby’s Development at 37 weeks
Baby’s Lungs Are Ready to Breathe
By Week 37, your baby’s lungs are typically fully developed and capable of functioning outside the womb. While they may still get stronger in the coming weeks, this is a huge milestone that supports a smooth transition at birth.
Practicing Reflexes
Your baby is refining key reflexes like sucking, gripping, and blinking. These are important for feeding, bonding, and adapting to life outside the womb.
More Fat, Less Wrinkles:
Your baby continues to add fat under their skin, smoothing out their appearance and helping regulate body temperature after birth.
Head May Be Engaged
If your baby is head-down, the head may be dropping into your pelvis, known as "lightening." This can relieve pressure on your lungs but increase bladder pressure.
Pregnancy Symptoms during Week 37
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As your baby moves lower into your pelvis, you may feel increased heaviness or even sharp twinges. This is completely normal and often a sign your body is getting ready for labor.
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These “practice contractions” may become stronger or more frequent now. While still irregular, they help prepare your uterus for the real thing.
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With baby pressing down, your bladder is under constant pressure, leading to more bathroom trips, even in the middle of the night.
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You might notice more discharge or lose your mucus plug around this time. This is a sign your cervix is preparing for dilation, but labor may still be days or weeks away.
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Many parents feel a burst of energy or an urge to clean and organize. Follow your instincts, but try not to overdo it, rest matters, too.
Pregnancy checklist at 37 weeks pregnant
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Hospitals usually won’t let you leave without a properly installed rear-facing infant seat. Practice securing it and have it inspected if possible.
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Review your preferences with your provider and print extra copies for your partner or doula to have on hand.
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Include essentials like snacks, ID, toiletries, comfortable clothing, nursing bras, and the Hospital Packing List from ChildbirthU’s free resources.
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Familiarize yourself with the signs of labor and when your care provider recommends calling or heading to the hospital. This typically includes contractions that are regular and strong, your water breaking, or decreased fetal movement.
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These last appointments often include cervical checks and discussions about labor timing. Be sure to ask any final questions or voice concerns.
37 Weeks Pregnant Belly
Your bump is likely lower now as baby has descended, especially if this is your first pregnancy. You may find it easier to breathe but harder to walk without waddling. Your belly skin might feel tight, itchy, or heavy, consider using a belly support band or moisturizer to ease discomfort. Many parents begin noticing signs of early labor around this time, so keep your birth plan and hospital bag ready.
Tips & Resources
Use Relaxation Techniques: Practice breathing, visualization, or use our Relaxation Techniques for Labour guide to stay calm and focused as labor approaches.
Review Infant CPR & Safety: Take advantage of ChildbirthU’s Free Infant CPR Class if you haven’t yet, it’s quick, informative, and potentially life-saving.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Eating small, nutrient-dense meals and drinking plenty of water helps support your body’s final push through the end of pregnancy.
Talk to Your Partner or Support Person: Make sure everyone knows the plan for when labor begins, who’s driving, who’s watching the kids, and how to communicate with your care team.
Trust Your Intuition: You know your body better than anyone else. Don’t second-guess yourself if something feels different or off, reach out to your care provider.