Pregnancy Week 38

This week your baby may be almost 21 inches in length and weighs around 7 pounds. Your baby is almost ready to be born now. Your baby’s head circumference is about the same as his or her abdomen.

Your baby’s intestines have developed a “black, green sticky” substance (meconium) from the liver, pancreas and gall bladder, which will be eliminated shortly after birth. Occasionally, babies have bowel movements before birth, which is a sign that the baby is under stress and can be very serious if babies inhale any amniotic fluid that contains meconium.

You are probably more than ready to get all this over with. You may be increasingly uncomfortable, fatigued and antsy. It may seem that these last couple of weeks are just crawling by, but just remember, pregnancy can’t last forever! Soon, youll be holding your new little one in your arms.

The top of your uterus is about 7 inches (or a little more) above your belly button. Your baby continues to wiggle around, but large movements can be quite uncomfortable for you. It’s a good idea to keep track of your baby’s movements and call your doctor or midwife if you notice any drop in frequency or change in the pattern.

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