As your pregnancy journey comes close to its end, your little one is still hard at work inside your womb. At 38 weeks, your baby is considered full-term and could arrive at any moment. So, what’s happening in there? Let’s take a look at what’s going on with your baby’s development at 38 weeks in the womb:
Table of Contents
Size and Weight
At 38 weeks, your baby is about the size of a pumpkin, weighing in at around 6.8 pounds and measuring about 19.6 inches in length. However, keep in mind that every baby is different and may fall outside of this range.
Lungs and Breathing
At this stage, your baby’s lungs are fully developed and ready for outside air. In fact, your little one has been practicing breathing for several weeks by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid. This process helps strengthen the lungs and prepares your baby for life outside the womb.
Brain and Nervous System
Your baby’s brain is still developing and growing rapidly, with some areas of the brain continuing to mature even after birth. At 38 weeks, your baby’s nervous system is well developed and able to control basic body functions such as breathing and temperature regulation.
Sleep and Wake Cycles
Just like newborns, babies in the womb have sleep and wake cycles. At 38 weeks, your baby may be sleeping up to 90% of the day and having periods of active movement during wake cycles.
Positioning
At this stage, your baby is likely in the head down position, ready for delivery. However, some babies may still be in the breech position or transverse position, which may require a different delivery method.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it safe to deliver a baby at 38 weeks?
Most babies born at 38 weeks are healthy and fully developed, making delivery safe. However, there is a slightly higher risk of complications such as respiratory distress syndrome for babies born before 39 weeks. Talk to your doctor about the best delivery plan for you and your baby.
2. What can I do to prepare for delivery?
As your due date approaches, it’s a good idea to pack your hospital bag, make arrangements for childcare for any other children, and discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider. You may also want to consider taking childbirth classes to prepare for labor and delivery.
3. Can my baby’s position change before delivery?
It’s possible for your baby’s position to change before delivery, especially if you’re not yet in labor. However, if your baby is still in the breech position close to your due date, your doctor may recommend a cesarean section to ensure a safe delivery.
4. What should I expect during labor and delivery?
Every woman’s labor and delivery experience is different, but it’s important to trust your body and your healthcare team. You may experience contractions, have your water break, and feel pressure as your baby moves down the birth canal. Remember to breathe, stay calm, and communicate with your healthcare provider throughout the process.
5. How can I best care for my baby in the first few weeks after delivery?
In the first few weeks after delivery, it’s important to take care of yourself and your baby. This includes getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and feeding your baby frequently. You may also want to consider enlisting the help of family and friends for support, as this can be a challenging but rewarding time.