38 Weeks Pregnant: Labour Signs, Baby Position and Changes

At 38 weeks, the big event could happen any day. Learn about labour signs, sleeping positions, swelling, and tips for staying healthy before delivery.

The big event could happen any day now! At 38 weeks pregnant, your baby is probably sitting low in your pelvis, bumping into nerves and causing new discomfort. Watch out for signs of labour as you navigate these final days. Your baby does not have enough room to move much and spends most of their time sleeping and resting to conserve energy for birth.

You will probably notice bursts of strong, powerful activity from your baby. However, if there is any significant slowing down of your baby's movements or something feels wrong, trust your instincts and have a check-up with your midwife or doctor.

Physical Changes at 38 Weeks Pregnant

Belly prominence: Your tummy is the first thing entering a room. It has been weeks since you could see your feet while standing.
Sleeping position: Lying on your front is not an option and lying flat on your back is not recommended because the heavy uterus compresses the vena cava (a major blood vessel). The best position is lying on your left side with your upper leg bent at the knee and supported by a pillow.
Swelling: Your feet and ankles may have merged into the much-maligned "cankle" this week due to fluid retention.

Helpful Hints for Week 38 of Pregnancy

Avoid illness: Stay away from crowds and people who are unwell. You need to be in the best possible shape to deliver your baby and maintain your energy stores.
Choose a paediatrician: Speak with friends and family who have had a baby recently. If they had a positive experience with their paediatrician, mention this to your own doctor.
Labour signs to watch for: Early signs include a bloody show, diarrhoea, nausea, contractions, back pain, and your water breaking. Let your doctor know if any of these occur.

Kimberly-Clark India makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness or accuracy of the information. This information should be used only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical or other health professional advice.

FAQs on Week 38

Early signs of labour at 38 weeks include a bloody show, diarrhoea, nausea, contractions, back pain, and your water breaking. Let your doctor know immediately if you experience any of these signs so they can guide you on next steps.

The best sleeping position is on your left side with your upper leg bent at the knee and supported by a pillow. Lying on your back is not recommended because the heavy uterus compresses the vena cava, a major blood vessel. Lying on your front is no longer possible.

Swollen feet and ankles (sometimes called "cankles") at 38 weeks are caused by fluid retention common in late pregnancy. Your body is carrying extra weight and fluid, which pools in the lower extremities. This is a normal part of the final weeks.

Your baby has less room to move at 38 weeks and spends most time sleeping to conserve energy for birth. You will notice bursts of strong activity. However, if there is significant slowing or something feels wrong, trust your instincts and have a check-up immediately.

Stay away from crowds and people who are unwell. You need to be in the best possible shape for delivery and maintain energy stores. Limit exposure to large groups and focus on rest, nutrition, and keeping yourself healthy for the big day.

Pregnancy week