Last updated: January 2026
At 38 weeks, your baby is fully developed and could arrive any day now - or take a few more weeks! Your baby weighs 2.8-3.4 kg and is the size of a small watermelon, with strong lungs ready to cry, fully formed nails, and possibly a full head of hair. Watch for labor signs while managing final pregnancy symptoms like frequent urination, discharge changes, and nesting instinct.
Watch: Always look for this early hunger cues.Do you feed your baby only after they start crying?
| Measurement | Details |
|---|---|
| **Length** | About 50 cm (19-20 inches) |
| **Weight** | Approximately 2.8-3.4 kg (6.2-7.5 pounds) |
| **Size comparison** | Like a small watermelon or pumpkin |
Lungs:
Physical Features:
Skin and Hair:
| Symptom | Why It Happens | What Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Frequent urination | Baby's head in pelvis | Limit caffeine, stay near bathroom |
| Mucus plug | Cervix preparing for labor | Monitor, note when it happens |
| Colored vaginal discharge | Cervix changing | Normal if pink/brown, call if red |
| Itchy belly | Skin stretched | Vitamin E oil, moisturizer |
| Tiredness/frustration | End of pregnancy | Rest, support, patience |
| Nesting instinct | Hormonal preparation | Don't overdo it |
| Insomnia | Discomfort, anxiety | Sleep routine, comfort measures |
Mucus Plug:
Bloody Show:
When to Call Doctor:
What It Is:
Be Careful:
Early Labor Signs:
Active Labor Signs:
Between Contractions:
During Contractions:
Why It Matters:
What to Wear:
Benefits:
Tips:
What Tests Happen:
Why They Matter:
| Sign | What It Means | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Regular contractions | Labor starting | Time them, call doctor when close |
| Water breaking | Labor beginning | Note time and fluid color, go to hospital |
| Bloody show | Cervix changing | Stay alert for other signs |
| Intense back pain | Could be labor | Monitor for pattern |
| Contractions + back pain | Strong sign of labor | Go to hospital |
Call Doctor First:
Go Immediately:
Go to Hospital If:
Call Doctor If:
A: Haan! 38 weeks pe baby fully developed hai aur labor anytime start ho sakti hai. But many babies wait until 39-41 weeks. Only 5% babies come on their due date. Be ready but also be patient - baby will come when ready.
A: Note the time it happens and the color of fluid (should be clear or slightly pink). Put on a pad. Call your doctor or go to hospital. If fluid is green, yellow, or smells bad, go immediately - could indicate baby passed meconium.
A: Nesting is common in final weeks but doesn't predict exact labor timing. It's your body preparing, but labor could still be days or weeks away. Don't exhaust yourself - you need energy for labor and early days with baby.
A: Yes, newborn nails can be sharp! Baby may even scratch face in womb. After birth, you can file nails gently or use baby mittens. Many hospitals trim nails before discharge. Never bite baby's nails (infection risk).
A: Insomnia affects 2/3 of women in late pregnancy. Try: sleep schedule, comfortable pillows, cool room, relaxation before bed, avoid screens, empty bladder before lying down. If severely affecting daily function, talk to doctor.
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This article was reviewed by a healthcare provider. At 38 weeks, your baby could arrive any day - stay alert for labor signs while enjoying these final days of pregnancy!
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