Congratulations mama! You’re just a few short weeks away from meeting your little one. Your baby’s 37th week of life is a huge milestone for both of you. Your baby is considered full term and could arrive at any moment! Here are some important things to know about your 37 week old baby’s development:
Table of Contents
Physical Development
At 37 weeks old, your baby is about the size of a honeydew melon, weighing in at approximately 6.5 pounds and measuring around 19 inches long. Your baby’s organs are fully developed and ready for life outside the womb. Your baby’s lungs are also fully matured and ready to breathe air. In preparation for birth, your baby will drop lower into your pelvis to prepare for the journey down the birth canal. This process is called “lightening,” and you may notice that you can breathe a little easier now that baby isn’t pressing up against your lungs as much.
Source: bing.comBrain Development
Your baby’s brain development is ongoing at 37 weeks old. Your baby’s brain is growing and developing rapidly, and will continue to do so until around age 3. Your baby’s brain is also busy making connections between different parts of the brain, which will help with things like learning, memory, and problem-solving later in life. Your baby’s sense of hearing and smell are also fully developed at 37 weeks old.
Behavioral Development
At 37 weeks old, your baby is spending most of their time sleeping and practicing breathing. You may notice your baby hiccupping frequently, which is a good sign that their diaphragm is working properly. Your baby is also practicing swallowing and digesting amniotic fluid, which helps to prepare their digestive system for life outside the womb. Your baby’s nails have also grown long enough that they may need to be trimmed after birth.
Milestones
While your baby may not be hitting traditional developmental milestones at 37 weeks old, there are still some important things to watch for. Your baby’s movements will slow down as they prepare for birth, but you should still feel regular movements throughout the day. If you notice a decrease in your baby’s movements, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You may also notice some irregular contractions, which are known as Braxton Hicks contractions. These are a normal part of the third trimester and can help to prepare your body for labor.
Conclusion
As you approach the end of your pregnancy, it’s important to take care of yourself and prepare for your baby’s arrival. Make sure you’re eating a healthy diet, staying active, and getting plenty of rest. Don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider with any concerns or questions you may have. Before you know it, you’ll be holding your precious little one in your arms!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean if my baby hasn’t dropped yet at 37 weeks?
A: Every pregnancy is different, and some babies may not drop until labor begins. However, if your baby hasn’t dropped yet and you’re experiencing difficulty breathing or other discomfort, contact your healthcare provider to rule out any complications.
Q: Can I still have a vaginal birth if my baby is breech at 37 weeks?
A: While it’s possible to have a vaginal birth with a breech baby, your healthcare provider may recommend a cesarean section to reduce the risk of complications. Talk to your provider about your options.
Q: What should I do if I think I’m in labor at 37 weeks?
A: If you think you’re in labor at 37 weeks, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They will be able to advise you on what steps to take next.
Q: Is it safe to have sex at 37 weeks pregnant?
A: As long as your healthcare provider hasn’t advised against it, sex is generally safe throughout pregnancy. However, if you’re experiencing any complications or discomfort, it’s important to talk to your provider before engaging in sexual activity.
Q: When should I start packing my hospital bag?
A: It’s a good idea to start packing your hospital bag around 35-36 weeks, just in case your baby decides to arrive early. Make sure to include essentials like a change of clothes for you and baby, toiletries, and important documents like your insurance information.