38 Weeks Pregnant: Know if That Contraction Is Real or False Alarm

Is it just cramps or is this it? At 38 weeks pregnant, you're officially on baby watch. Every twinge, every trip to the bathroom, and every sleepless night can feel like a possible sign of labor. After all, you're one week away from becoming full-term now.

Keep reading about what's going on inside your body and what symptoms you shouldn't ignore as the countdown nears zero.

Your Baby’s Development at 38 Weeks

Your baby is just about ready for life outside the womb. At 38 weeks pregnant, most babies weigh around 2.5 to 4.0 kg. By this time, most babies have shifted into a head-down position, which is ideal for delivery.

Here's what's happening to your baby's lungs, brain, and skin protection in the womb:

Lung development

Your baby's respiratory system is getting ready to work on its own—it's been borrowing yours up until now. They are in the final "alveolar" stage, developing tiny sacs (alveoli) and surfactant, the essential substance that helps prevent the collapse of air sacs at birth. Those small lungs will continue to develop even after birth.

Brain size and volume

While your baby's brain is about 25% of its adult size, brain volume will double in the first year alone, and by age 3, it will reach nearly 80% of its adult size. This early period is critical for forming the neural connections that support your baby's learning and development.

Shedding of skin protection

Your baby is shedding the last traces of vernix, a creamy white coating, and lanugo, the fine hair covering their body. These usually fade around this time as your baby preps for their first hello.

Track your baby’s development in the womb with this month-by-month check.

Symptoms at 38 Weeks Pregnant

Lying on your side can help if you're experiencing shortness of breath.

Your body's definitely in the "any day now" zone, and it can feel uncomfortable, confusing, or both. At 38 weeks pregnant, symptoms you'll likely experience include:

Pelvic pressure

Your baby is likely settling deeper into your pelvis (also known as "lightening"), which can bring on that heavy, downward pressure. You might also notice increased lower back discomfort.

Frequent urination

Thanks to your baby's new position pressing on your bladder, you may find yourself urinating even more frequently, especially at night.

Vaginal discharge changes

At 38 weeks pregnant, a white milky discharge called leukorrhea is typical and usually nothing to worry about. But if you notice yellow or brown discharge, these may signal changes in your cervix or the mucus plug coming loose. If you smell a foul odor, see your doctor because it could be an infection.

Signs of Labor vs. False Alarms

Mild abdominal pain or cramps can happen as your uterus and muscles prepare for labor. During this waiting game, you might feel what’s known as Braxton Hicks contractions, irregular, usually painless tightening of your uterus. They’re often called "practice contractions" because they help your body gear up for the real thing.

However, if you're unsure whether it's just discomfort or something more, pay attention to the patterns, intensity, and duration of the symptoms. Braxton Hicks don’t come in a pattern and typically ease up if you rest or hydrate.

At 38 weeks pregnant, signs of labor include:

• Contractions that get stronger and closer together and don't go away no matter how much you change positions
• Lower back pain won't quit with the dull ache deep wrapping around your sides
• Water breaking whether it's a trickle or a gush
• Increased discharge or diarrhea
• Thick, jelly-like discharge sometimes tinged with pink or red, a sign you're losing the mucus plug

Reach out to your healthcare provider right away if you experience:

• Bright red bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain
• Decreased fetal movement
• Vision changes, painful headaches, or swelling in the face or hands (possible signs of preeclampsia)

If you're 38 weeks pregnant with no signs of labor, don't stress. Some people go from nothing to baby in arms within hours. Every pregnancy unfolds in its own unpredictable timeline.

Food to Eat at 38 Weeks Pregnant

You might not have much of an appetite these days with your baby pressing on your stomach. But eating well at this stage prepares you for the marathon of labor and postpartum recovery.

Eat small, frequent meals

Choose foods that are rich in fiber, protein, and iron. Think whole grains, leafy greens, fruits, lean meat, tofu, or eggs. This can help you maintain steady energy levels and avoid constipation. Get ideas from this guide on healthy snacking for every trimester.

Include local nutrient powerhouses

Local staples like malunggay (moringa), kamote (sweet potato), and munggo (mung beans) are excellent, nutrient-dense choices. Malunggay, in particular, is known for its high iron, calcium, and vitamin A content and has even been linked to improved birth weight, according to a 2024 study in Food Science & Nutrition.

Drink plenty of fluids

Dehydration can sometimes trigger cramping, so hydrate with water or fresh buko juice to maintain your energy and keep your digestion moving smoothly.

Skip foods that cause bloating or reflux

Greasy, fried, or overly processed foods can sit heavily in your stomach, especially now. Go for light, nourishing meals that your body can process easily.

FAQs About Being 38 Weeks Pregnant

Eating pineapple at 38 weeks pregnant can supposedly can induce labor, but there’s no solid evidence that it works.

Still have a lot of "Is this okay?" questions at 38 weeks? You may find the answer you're looking for during this final stretch below.

What's the difference between 37 and 38 weeks pregnant?

The most noticeable difference between Week 37 and Week 38 is likely how you're feeling. As you near your due date, you may feel stronger Braxton Hicks contractions and more pelvic pressure. You may also notice an increase in vaginal discharge.

What position is my baby likely in now, and what happens if they're not in that position?

At 38 weeks pregnant, your baby is likely in the head-down position, which is ideal for delivery. If your baby is still in a breech (bottom first) or transverse (sideways) position, your doctor might recommend an external cephalic version (ECV), a gentle manual technique to try turning the baby or discuss birth options, including a planned C-section if needed.

Sex at 38 weeks pregnant: Is it safe?

Yes, as long as your doctor says it's okay and if you’re having a low-risk pregnancy.

How do I track fetal movements?

Start tracking your baby's movements at 9:00 a.m. and continue throughout the day. Each time your baby moves, make a mark or note the time. At the end of the day, count the total number of movements.

If your baby moves fewer than 10 times in a day for two consecutive days, ob-gyns recommend contacting your doctor immediately. A noticeable drop in activity could be a sign that your baby needs to be checked.

Can I eat papaya or pineapple to help induce labor?

You can eat these fruits in moderation because they're packed with vitamins. But there isn’t enough evidence to support that eating papaya at 38 weeks pregnant can induce labor, and the same goes for pineapple.

What type of exercises can I do to induce labor if I am nearing 39 weeks?

Consult your doctor before doing any exercise at this stage. If you're cleared for physical activity, these light exercises can help encourage your baby's descent into your pelvis. You can also try:

• Walking
• Pelvic tilts or hip circles on a birthing ball
• Squats or lunges (with support)
• Prenatal yoga focused on opening the hips

No exercise is guaranteed to start labor, but staying active can help your body get ready.

You're Almost There!

Being 38 weeks pregnant can feel like you're stuck in limbo. Know that your body is doing exactly what it needs to do to bring your baby into the world.

Listen to your instincts, stay in touch with your healthcare provider, and take things one day (or hour) at a time. This final stretch may test your patience, but you can do this. Wishing you a safe, smooth, and empowering delivery ahead!

As your due date nears, spend the time waiting (and distracting yourself) at ParenTeam's Moms and Dads Facebook group!