How does my baby grow at 38 weeks?

At 38 weeks, your baby is around 49.8cm (the size of a stick of rhubarb) and weighs about 3kg.

Your baby’s bowels have been making a sticky green substance called meconium. This is made up of everything they have swallowed in the womb, including amniotic fluid and bits of hair. After birth, this will be your baby’s first poo.

Sometimes during labour, your baby may poo and expel the meconium. If this happens, then your midwife or doctor will be monitoring your baby closely, because while this can be normal, it could also mean they’re stressed.

What are the pregnancy symptoms at 38 weeks?

Labour will usually happen between 38 and 42 weeks of pregnancy. So it’s time to get ready for the birth! Most planned Caesarean sections are booked after 38 or 39 weeks, depending on the individual case. You may have an appointment with your midwife and doctor at this time, which gives you the opportunity to talk through any concerns or things you’re not sure about.

Leg cramps during the night will become common around this time. Try curling up to sleep with a pillow between your legs to help alleviate this. Watch out for labour contractions or a show, which is sticky mucus released by the neck of your womb. This can be the first sign that you may go into labour.

By now, your baby is filling out your tummy, so you'll have discovered the return of frequent nighttime trips to the toilet.

What Does My Pregnancy Look Like at Thirty-Eight Weeks?

Week 38 of pregnancy, including your baby’s development and labour preparation.