An Inside Look at 37 Weeks Pregnant

BABY DEVELOPMENT

Judging from the size of your baby bump, the little one in your belly isn’t quite so little anymore! As a result, there isn’t much room left for your baby’s impressive somersaults. You can still expect to feel some action, though, through the occasional kicks, elbow pokes and head turning. Whenever this happens, give your tummy a gentle poke to say hello back.

At around this time, your baby will mostly likely shed off the “peach fuzz” – i.e. very soft and fine hair –that’s been covering the skin and keeping it warm. Also peeling off will be the vernix – the white, cheesy-like substance that’s been protecting your baby’s skin from infection. All these changes mean that your baby’s getting ready to meet you soon!

YOUR BODY

With just a couple more weeks to go, expectations are at an all-time high and you’re probably feeling both excited and nervous. Who wouldn’t be?!

It’s hard not to get impatient, but try to stay as relaxed as you can so you can give birth in optimal conditions. Keep doing your regular relaxation and breathing exercises. If you feel a wave of contractions, look calmly at your watch, lie down and relax, breathing deeply and regularly as you note the time. You will feel the contractions subside. When they come back, look at your watch again. If the contractions are spaced more than 20 minutes apart, then you’re not going into labor just yet. In general, if the contractions are spaced 5 to 10 minutes apart, or if your water breaks, then it's time to go to the hospital. Can you believe how close you are to giving birth to your little darling? Just take it easy and savor each precious moment.

NUTRITION

One of the most frequently asked questions by pregnant women is whether you can continue drinking coffee and tea during pregnancy. According to recent studies, high caffeine intake has been linked to an increase in some side effects. As a result, most experts would recommend that you limit yourself to 1 cup of coffee or tea per day. Of course, your body may have different needs, so it’s always best to consult with your doctor before making any nutrition choices. When in doubt, exercise caution and choose the safest option.

TIPS

Have you thought about whether your partner should be with you in the room during the baby’s birth? The choice is really up to you both and what you’d feel more comfortable with. Maybe your husband has a fear of seeing blood and would only add to your anxiety. Talk openly to your partner about any fears and expectations. Then make a joint decision. Try not to put either yourself or your partner under any pressure. Simply get ready for your big joyful moment in the best way possible.

Still more to come at Week 38! Click here to see what’s about to unfold.