Pregnant week 38 – ready to give birth at any time

Pregnant week 38 is very close to the due date, and for many the wait now feels both intense and endless. The body is very much ready for birth, and the baby can in principle be born at any time. Everyday life can be characterized by unrest, anticipation and a great need for both physical and mental peace.

Week 38 is often about being ready – without knowing when it will happen.

What happens in the body during week 38 of pregnancy?

At 38 weeks pregnant, the uterus is very large, and the body is in full swing with the final preparations. The cervix may start to become shorter and softer, and some may be slightly dilated without being in labor. Picking contractions can be frequent and strong and can be difficult to distinguish from the onset of labor.

The baby may be deep in the pelvis, which can cause increased downward pressure, abdominal pressure, and frequent toilet visits. For some, breathing becomes easier, while walking and movement may become more difficult.

Symptoms in pregnancy week 38

Many pregnant women experience pronounced fatigue and restlessness in their bodies during the 38th week of pregnancy. Sleep may be interrupted by contractions, the baby's movements, thoughts and physical discomfort. Pain in the pelvis, lower back and hips are common, as are swollen legs and feet.

Some experience mucus discharge or increased vaginal discharge, which may be a sign that the body is preparing for birth.

What happens to the baby at week 38?

At 38 weeks pregnant, the baby is about 49–50 centimeters long and weighs approximately 3,100–3,300 grams. The baby is fully developed and ready for life outside the womb.

The movements are still evident, but more calm and pushing because the space is very limited. The baby continues to gain some weight and fine-tune its functions.

Pregnant week 38 and movements

In week 38 of pregnancy, it is very important to continue to feel life every day. The movements may feel different than before, but they should be there. Pressing, rolling and stretching are completely normal.

If you experience fewer movements, lack of life or significant changes in the baby's movement pattern, you should contact the maternity ward or midwife immediately.

Pregnant week 38 and the belly

This week, the belly is often very large and heavy. For many, the belly sits low, which can cause more pressure in the pelvis and less air in the lungs. This can affect both mobility and comfort in everyday life.

The need for support, rest and calm movements is often great.

What can you do in week 38?

In week 38 of pregnancy, it's mainly about being ready and taking care of yourself. Make sure to rest, eat regularly, and listen to your body's signals. Light movement can be nice, but it's important not to push yourself.

Many people find that it helps to find peace in knowing that the body knows when the time is right.

Thoughts and feelings in pregnancy week 38

The waiting period can be emotionally challenging. Impatience, nervousness, joy, and fatigue can change quickly. It is completely normal to feel both ready and anxious at the same time.

There is no right way to have it at this stage.

When should you seek medical attention?

In week 38 of pregnancy, you should contact the maternity ward or midwife if you experience signs of labor, such as regular contractions, water breaking, bleeding, fever, severe headache, visual disturbances or clear changes in the baby's movements.

Ready for next week

In week 39 of pregnancy, the due date is very close, and labor can begin at any time – if it hasn't already begun. Read about week 39 here.

Sources: Sundhed.dk, NHS, Mayo Clinic, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)