At 37 weeks pregnant, you’ve reached a meaningful threshold: your baby is now considered early term, and your body is actively preparing for labor — whether it happens tomorrow or weeks from now. This stage can feel paradoxical. You may feel ready in theory but deeply uncomfortable in practice. Excited, but impatient. Calm one moment and overwhelmed the next.
All of it makes sense. Week 37 is less about growth spurts and more about readiness — physical, emotional, and logistical. Here’s what to know as you move through this pivotal week.
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How You’re Feeling at 37 Weeks Pregnant
By week 37, pregnancy often feels heavier—not necessarily in pounds, but in sensation. Your body is carrying the culmination of months of change, and many people notice that symptoms shift rather than intensify.
Pelvic pressure and heaviness
If your baby has dropped lower into the pelvis, you may feel significant pressure in your hips, groin, and pelvic floor. Walking, rolling over in bed, or standing up from a seated position can feel slow or awkward, and that’s normal. This pressure is a sign that your body is preparing for birth.
More noticeable contractions
Braxton-Hicks contractions may feel stronger, more frequent, or more uncomfortable than in previous weeks. These contractions are typically irregular and may ease with rest or hydration. While not labor, they’re your uterus practicing for what’s ahead.
Changes in digestion
Heartburn, bloating, gas, or loose stools are common at this stage. As your body releases hormones that soften connective tissue and prepare the cervix, the digestive system can also be affected. Small, frequent meals and staying upright after eating may help.
Sleep disruption
Finding a comfortable sleeping position can be difficult, and frequent nighttime bathroom trips don’t help. Even if deep sleep is elusive, resting your body—lying down, closing your eyes, slowing your breath—still counts.
Swelling and circulation changes
Mild swelling in the feet, ankles, and hands is common, especially later in the day. Gentle movement, hydration, and elevating your legs when possible can support circulation. Sudden or severe swelling, especially with headache or vision changes, should be checked by your provider.
Emotional intensity
Many people feel more emotionally tender at 37 weeks. You may notice heightened sensitivity, impatience, or a strong desire to “nest”—organizing, cleaning, or mentally preparing your space. It’s also normal to feel anxious about labor or the transition into postpartum life. These emotions aren’t signs you’re unprepared; they’re signs you care.
What’s New With Your Baby at 37 Weeks
At 37 weeks, your baby is no longer focused on major development—they’re focused on fine-tuning and readiness.
Baby’s size and growth
Most babies at this stage weigh between 6 and 7 pounds and measure around 18 to 19 inches long. Weight gain continues steadily as baby builds fat stores that will help regulate body temperature after birth.
Organ systems are ready—with continued refinement
Your baby’s heart, kidneys, digestive system, and brain are fully formed and functioning. The lungs are structurally mature, though they continue to refine surfactant production, an important substance that helps keep air sacs open after birth. This is why every extra day in utero can still be beneficial, even though baby is considered early term.
Movement may feel different
As space becomes more limited, your baby’s movements may feel slower, more deliberate, or more rolling than sharp kicks. You should still feel regular movement patterns throughout the day. If movement decreases noticeably, it’s always appropriate to contact your provider.
Positioning for birth
Most babies are head-down by now, settling deeper into the pelvis. If your baby is still breech or transverse, your provider may discuss monitoring or potential interventions. Many babies turn on their own in these final weeks.
Practicing life outside the womb
Your baby is practicing sucking, swallowing, blinking, and breathing movements. They’re also shedding lanugo (fine body hair) and may have a full head of hair, or none at all. All of this is part of preparing for life in your arms.
Your Week 37 To-Do List
While much of this week is about waiting, there are still meaningful ways to support yourself and feel more prepared.
1. Finalize your hospital or birth-center bag
By now, your bag should be packed and accessible. Include comfortable clothing, postpartum essentials, personal care items, and anything that helps you feel grounded, whether that’s a familiar scent, music, or a favorite robe.
2. Review signs of labor with your provider
Make sure you know when to call, when to go in, and what to do if your water breaks. Having clarity around logistics can reduce anxiety and help you feel more confident if labor begins unexpectedly.
3. Confirm postpartum support
Whether it’s a partner, family member, friend, or professional support, clarify who will be helping you in the first days after birth. This includes meals, rest, emotional support, and practical help.
4. Prioritize rest over productivity
This isn’t the week to push through exhaustion. Rest supports your immune system, hormone balance, and stamina for labor. Even short periods of intentional rest can make a difference.
5. Gentle movement, if it feels good
Short walks, prenatal stretching, or light movement can ease stiffness and support circulation. Listen closely to your body—movement should feel supportive, not draining.
6. Check in emotionally
This transition is significant. Journaling, quiet reflection, or open conversations with a partner or trusted friend can help you process what’s coming—not just the birth, but the shift into a new chapter.
The Takeaway
At 37 weeks pregnant, your body and baby are aligned in preparation. While discomfort may be more present and patience may feel thin, this stage is purposeful. Your baby is nearly ready. Your body knows what to do. And you don’t need to rush or force anything.
This is a week for listening inward, resting often, and trusting that each day brings you closer—not just to birth, but to meeting the person you’ve been growing all along.
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and we recommend that you always consult with your healthcare provider. To the extent that this article features the advice of physicians or medical practitioners, the views expressed are the views of the cited expert and do not necessarily represent the views of Perelel.
References:
1. Mayo Clinic. 3rd trimester pregnancy: what to expect.
2. What to Expect. 37 Weeks Pregnant.
3. Babylist. 37 Weeks.
4. The Bump. 37 Weeks.
