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37 weeks pregnant: baby, body and what to expect

Trimester 3 of 3About 8.5 months3 weeks to go
Week 37 of pregnancy: baby is about the size of a winter melon
Week 37 at a glance

At 37 weeks, pregnancy is early term, and most babies are ready for birth. Labor may still be a few weeks away, but call your provider right away if you have contractions, bleeding, fluid leaking, severe pain, or less movement.

37 weeks pregnant is about 8.5 months. You are in month 9 of pregnancy and the third trimester.

Your baby at 37 weeks

Baby is early term and ready for birth

37 weeks: pregnancy is early term

At 37 weeks, pregnancy is considered early term. Most babies born at this point do well, and their organs, including the lungs, are mature enough for life outside the uterus. Labor may still start in the next few weeks.

The due date is an estimate, not a strict deadline. Babies are often born in the weeks around it, and many providers recommend staying in close contact with your care team.

What is usually happening with baby now

  • The lungs are mature, and the brain and nervous system continue to develop.
  • Many babies have moved head down in preparation for birth.
  • Sucking and swallowing reflexes are well developed.
  • Movements may feel different because there is less room, but you should still feel regular movement.
  • Baby continues to gain weight and fat, which helps keep them warm after birth.
Contact your provider right away if you have contractions, bleeding, fluid leaking from the vagina, severe pain, or noticeably fewer movements.

The celery comparison is a simple way to picture baby's size. What matters most now is how baby is growing, how often they move, and how you are feeling. Keep your prenatal appointments, and ask your provider what signs of labor to watch for.

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Your body at 37 weeks

Easier Breathing, More Bladder Pressure

What does belly dropping mean?

Belly dropping is often called lightening. It usually happens in the days or weeks before labor, when the baby settles lower into the pelvis to get ready for birth. The baby may move down by a few centimeters (about 1 to 2 inches).

How might you feel?

  • Breathing may feel easier because the uterus no longer presses as hard against the diaphragm.
  • Heartburn and the feeling of fullness after eating may decrease.
  • Pressure on the bladder may increase, so you may need to urinate more often.
  • You may notice new pressure in the pelvis or discomfort when walking.

Does this happen the same way for everyone?

For first-time pregnancies, lightening may happen a few weeks before labor, or it may not happen until labor starts. In later pregnancies, it often happens closer to labor or once labor has begun.

If your belly has not dropped yet, that is common too. Every pregnancy is different, and your body will prepare for birth at its own pace.

When to call your provider

Call your OB-GYN, midwife, or labor and delivery unit right away if pelvic pressure comes with regular, painful contractions, fluid leaking from the vagina, or any bleeding.

Common symptoms at 37 weeks

Pelvic pressure

Feeling heavy or pressure low in your pelvis is common as the baby settles lower. Changing positions, resting with your feet up, and wearing supportive underwear can help.

Needing to pee more often

More frequent trips to the bathroom are common because the baby presses on your bladder. Try to drink fluids steadily during the day and cut back a bit in the evening.

Easier breathing

Many people notice they can take deeper breaths after the baby drops. Your stomach may feel less tight under your ribs, which can also help with eating.

Vaginal discharge

You may notice more discharge, which can be thin or thick and sometimes pinkish or streaked with mucus. Tell your provider if you see bright red blood, fluid that seems to leak, or a foul smell.

Braxton Hicks contractions

Tightening in your belly that comes and goes and does not get stronger or closer together is often Braxton Hicks. Resting, drinking water, or changing position may ease them.

Lower back and hip ache

Shifting weight and loosening joints can make your back and hips sore. A warm bath, gentle stretching, and a pillow between your knees while lying down may help.

Your week 37 checklist

Tests and appointments

  • Group B strep test. A swab of the vagina and rectum is usually taken between 36 and 37 weeks to check for group B strep, which can be passed to the baby during birth.
  • Weekly prenatal visit. Visits are often scheduled every week from about 36 weeks, where your provider checks your blood pressure, weight, baby's position, and heartbeat.
For your partner: You can help by learning the warning signs, such as contractions that get closer together, fluid leaking, or bleeding, and knowing when to call the provider. Offering rest, food, and help with errands can also make these last weeks feel lighter.

Questions about week 37

How many months is 37 weeks pregnant?

37 weeks pregnant is about 8.5 months. You are in month 9 of pregnancy and the third trimester.

What trimester is 37 weeks?

Week 37 is in the third trimester. The first trimester runs through week 13, the second from week 14 to 27 and the third from week 28 until birth.

What is happening with the baby at 37 weeks?

At 37 weeks, pregnancy is early term, and most babies are ready for birth. Labor may still be a few weeks away, but call your provider right away if you have contractions, bleeding, fluid leaking, severe pain, or less movement.

Is it normal to have diarrhea at 37 weeks?

Loose stools can happen near the end of pregnancy as hormones and pressure change. If it is severe, lasts long, or comes with fever or pain, contact your provider.

How do I know if this is real labor?

Real labor usually brings regular contractions that grow stronger and closer together over time. If you are unsure, or you notice fluid leaking or bleeding, call your provider or go to the hospital.

Can I still travel at 37 weeks?

Some people can still travel, but it is best to check with your provider first. Plan for bathroom stops, stay hydrated, and have your birth location in mind.

Safe or not?

Generally OKCan you eat mayonnaise when pregnant?LimitIs coffee safe during pregnancy?LimitCan I eat deli meat while pregnant?LimitCan I go in a hot tub while pregnant?

Guides for this stage

Medical careBirth plan: how to make a document for your care teamExerciseBreathing Techniques for Labor Contractions and PushingTrying to conceiveCord Blood Banking: Is a Storage Contract Worth It?Medical careWhat fetal heart rate monitoring is and why it is often used near the end of pregnancy

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General information only; it does not replace advice from your doctor or midwife.