Third trimester
38 weeks pregnant
Baby is about the size of a leek.
Week 38 of 40 · in your third trimester · Updated
Your baby this week
Baby's organs are ready. The brain and lungs continue to mature.
- All major organ systems are working independently.
- The brain continues developing in coming weeks and after birth.
- Baby has a firm grip — may grab the umbilical cord (don't worry, they don't strangle themselves).
Your body this week
Many first-time moms hit this week without delivering — totally normal.
- Lots of waiting now. First-time moms commonly deliver between 39–41 weeks.
- Cervix may begin to thin (efface) and dilate.
- Watch for signs of labor every day.
Common symptoms
- Sleep difficulties (anxiety)
- Loose stools
- Pelvic pressure
- Mucus plug
- Strong Braxton Hicks
Things to do this week
- Rest as much as possible — every bit of sleep helps
- Final preparations: car seat, hospital bag, contact list
- Practice breathing exercises
For partners this week
The waiting weeks
- Handle the "Any news yet?" texts so your partner doesn't have to.
- Rest up yourself, too — you'll need it.
Typical visits around this week
Based on a typical schedule in Ontario. Your doctor or midwife sets the actual timing.
Weekly check-ups
Weeks 36–40
From about 36 weeks, visits are usually weekly until birth. Your provider checks the baby's position and your health, and goes over signs of labour and when to come in.
Questions to ask →Questions to ask ↑
- Is the baby head-down?
- When exactly should we call or head to the hospital?
- What's the plan if my water breaks before contractions start?
- What happens if I go past my due date?
Coming up
Past your due date
Weeks 40–42
If the baby hasn't arrived by your due date, your provider may ask you to track movements daily and may suggest extra checks, like a non-stress test of the baby's heart rate or an ultrasound of the fluid around the baby. Induction is usually discussed around 41 to 42 weeks.
Questions to ask →Questions to ask ↑
- How often will the baby be checked from here?
- When would you recommend an induction, and how does it work?
- What are our choices if we'd rather wait a little longer?
- What changes mean we should come in right away?
A flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccine are recommended at any stage of pregnancy. The flu shot is given during flu season, so the timing depends on when you're pregnant.
When to call your doctor or midwife
Bleeding, fluid leaking, a bad headache or vision changes, or baby moving less than usual all need a call. See the warning signs and who to call →
Follow your pregnancy week by week in MyBabyBase.
A due-date countdown, a mood and symptom journal, appointments, and a safe place for your documents — all in one hub.
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Further reading from health authorities
- Pregnancy — Government of Canada (Public Health Agency of Canada)
- Your pregnancy — Pregnancy Info, from the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC)
- Week-by-week guide to pregnancy — NHS (UK)
- Pregnancy — American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)