37 Weeks Pregnant - Saudi Mums

Baby development at 37 weeks

Your Baby’s Hair:
Newborns exhibit a range of hair characteristics, from a full head of locks measuring 1/2 to 1 1/2 inches to a delicate peach fuzz. Expect variations in hair color, and don’t be surprised if it undergoes changes, falling out within the first six months only to regrow with a different color and texture.

Exploring Your Baby’s Eyes:
The true eye color of your baby may not be immediately apparent at birth. While some infants display their final eye color, others may start with dark blue or slate-gray eyes, gradually transitioning to shades of blue, green, hazel, or brown over the first year.

Weight Gain and Skin Smoothness:
As your baby continues to put on weight, the additional fat contributes to smoother skin, forming a protective layer for warmth after birth.

Your baby is about the size of a bunch of Swiss chard

Pregnancy symptoms during week 37

Practicing contractions, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, which are intermittent uterine contractions experienced throughout pregnancy, may occur more frequently as you approach delivery. In the later stages of pregnancy, these contractions may last longer and become more uncomfortable. However, if they become truly painful, it could be a sign of actual labor. Dehydration, physical activity, or a full bladder often trigger Braxton Hicks contractions.

The increased frequency of Braxton Hicks contractions, often referred to as “practice contractions,” in late pregnancy may aid in cervical dilation and effacement, potentially facilitating a quicker progression during labor.

Distinguishing between Braxton Hicks and true contractions can sometimes be challenging. Typically, Braxton Hicks are not painful and occur at irregular intervals, resolving with changes in position or rest. True labor contractions are more intense, usually initiating in the back and moving toward the front of the belly. They follow regular intervals, becoming progressively stronger and closer together over time.

Knowing when to go to the hospital or birth center during true contractions depends on factors such as contractions lasting about a minute, occurring every five minutes for an hour, and causing significant discomfort, as advised by your doctor or midwife in uncomplicated pregnancies.

Leaking breasts, a common occurrence in the last weeks of pregnancy, can be attributed to colostrum, the initial nutrient-rich milk for your baby. Nursing pads can be used to manage leakage, and it’s entirely normal if you’re not experiencing this as well.

By 37 weeks, an increase in vaginal discharge, including clear, pink, or slightly bloody discharge, might be noticed. This may include the mucus plug and possibly a “bloody show.” Any heavy spotting, bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or constant leaking should be promptly reported to your doctor or midwife.

Monitoring your baby’s movements remains crucial, and any significant decrease in movement should be reported to your healthcare provider. While gas, bloating, and lower back pain are common discomforts due to the baby’s crowding of organs, maintaining good posture, gentle exercise like swimming, and seeking a prenatal massage can provide relief. If these measures are ineffective, consulting with your healthcare provider for further guidance is advisable.

Pregnancy checklist at 37 weeks

Crafting Your Baby’s Debut Announcement: Plan ahead to decide who will be the first to know about your baby’s arrival or when you go into labor. Choose your preferred communication method, whether it’s social media updates, calls, texts, emails, or traditional mailed announcements.
Ensuring Safety: Car Seat Installation Check: Experienced parents emphasize the importance of installing your car seat by the 37th week. If unsure, visit an inspection station where certified technicians can ensure a safe installation. Find a technician online or contact your local fire or police department, often equipped with trained technicians.
Embrace the Nesting Instinct: Experience the common phenomenon of nesting reported by 73 percent of BabyCenter moms. Whether it’s preparing freezer meals, organizing the nursery, or tending to various tasks, indulge in the nesting phase. Maintain a balance by avoiding strenuous activities, taking breaks, and staying hydrated during these busy days.

37 weeks pregnant bellies

At 37 weeks, it’s the ideal moment to celebrate your baby bump. Despite the discomfort you may be experiencing now and the various challenges of pregnancy, your body has admirably supported and shielded your growing baby. If you’re up for it, take the opportunity to commemorate your nearly full-sized pregnancy belly.

In the future, you might want to share images of this special time with your child, showcasing the place they called home for nine months. Consider capturing more photos of your belly in all its magnificence. You could also create a belly cast or embellish it with henna. Some expectant mothers express their creativity by painting artistic designs on their bump or taking a side-by-side photo with their partner to compare belly sizes.