37 Weeks Pregnant

Content last reviewed 2026-08-10.

Your baby this week

Baby is now considered "early term" and weighs about 6.3 pounds at roughly 19.1 inches long. Baby is actively practicing breathing, sucking, and gripping — all essential skills for life outside the womb. The lungs continue to produce surfactant, ensuring baby can breathe air effectively at birth. Fat stores continue to build, giving baby the adorable chubby cheeks and rounded limbs you'll see at birth. Baby's immune system is receiving a final surge of antibodies from you through the placenta, providing protection for the first months of life.

How you may feel

Your cervix may begin to soften, thin (efface), and even dilate slightly as your body prepares for labor. You might notice the "bloody show" — a small amount of blood-tinged mucus — or the passing of your mucus plug, which sealed the cervix during pregnancy. Pelvic pain and pressure are intense as baby's head pushes against your cervix. You may experience shooting pains in your legs (lightning crotch) as baby presses on nerves. Sleep becomes increasingly difficult, and many women feel restless and anxious as the due date approaches.

Common symptoms

  • You are now "early term" — baby is nearly fully developed.
  • Nesting instinct may kick in — a sudden urge to clean, organize, and prepare.
  • Increased vaginal discharge and possible loss of the mucus plug.
  • Pelvic pain, pressure, and frequent Braxton Hicks are constant companions.

This week's tips

Review the signs of true labor: contractions that come at regular intervals, gradually get closer together, last longer, and feel stronger over time. Unlike Braxton Hicks, true labor contractions don't stop when you change position or drink water. Know when to call your provider or head to the hospital — generally when contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour (the 5-1-1 rule). Keep your car seat installed, hospital bag ready, and phone charged. If your water breaks, note the time, color, and odor, and contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Eating well

  • Eat easily digestible, energy-rich foods — pasta, oatmeal, and fruit.
  • Stay hydrated to keep your energy up and prevent contractions from dehydration.
  • Include probiotic foods to support your immune system before delivery.

Nutrition focus

  • Continue prenatal vitamins and iron — you'll need strong blood stores for delivery.
  • Keep up DHA intake — baby's brain makes its final growth spurt.

Everyday wellbeing

  • Channel nesting energy wisely — avoid climbing or heavy lifting.
  • Practice labor positions with your partner: slow dancing, leaning, squatting.
  • Confirm your childcare, pet care, and transportation plans for labor day.

For your partner

Make sure the hospital bag is by the door and ready to go. Review the birth plan one more time and make sure you're clear on her wishes. Keep your gas tank full and your schedule as flexible as possible. Practice being calm and supportive — your energy will directly affect hers during labor. Learn comfort measures like counter-pressure on the lower back, offering ice chips, and words of encouragement.

Signs to mention to your provider

  • Contractions that are regular, increasing in intensity, and getting closer together.
  • Bright red bleeding (more than spotting) could signal a serious complication.
  • Severe headache, vision changes, or upper abdominal pain — preeclampsia can occur late.
Disclaimer: BabyBerry is for general information and self-tracking. It is not a medical device and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

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