38 Weeks Pregnant: Preparing for Birth with Antenatal Care, Yoga, and Support

At 38 weeks pregnant, you are incredibly close to the finish line of your pregnancy journey. Your baby is now full-term, and the anticipation of childbirth is building. This is a critical time to focus on your antenatal care and make sure that you’re prepared for the arrival of your little one. From antenatal appointments and prenatal yoga to antenatal support and antenatal classes, there are several steps you can take to ensure you’re as ready as possible for the birth.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the essential information you need to know at 38 weeks pregnant, including antenatal scans, prenatal care, antenatal vitamins, and how to stay relaxed and fit with antenatal massage and yoga during pregnancy. By following these tips and continuing with your antenatal education, you’ll be setting yourself up for a positive and well-prepared birth experience.

Your Baby’s Development at 38 Weeks Pregnant

By now, your baby is fully developed and could arrive at any moment. At 38 weeks, your baby’s body is ready to function independently, but they will continue to grow and develop throughout the final weeks.

Baby’s Size and Growth

Your baby is around the size of a watermelon at 38 weeks, weighing approximately 3 to 3.5 kg (6.6 to 7.7 lbs). They are around 50 cm (20 inches) long, and their body is becoming rounder as they gain fat to help with temperature regulation after birth.

Key Developments

Lungs: Your baby’s lungs are now fully matured and ready for breathing outside the womb, although they may still be producing surfactant, a substance that helps the lungs function efficiently.

Brain Development: Your baby’s brain continues to grow and develop, especially the areas responsible for motor skills and coordination.

Movement: You may notice your baby’s movements slowing down slightly as they are running out of space in the womb. However, you should still feel regular movements, and if you notice any changes in this, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Baby’s Position

By 38 weeks, your baby should ideally be positioned head-down, which is the optimal position for birth. However, it’s not uncommon for babies to be in breech or transverse positions. If your baby is not head-down, your antenatal clinic may discuss methods to help turn the baby, such as external cephalic version (ECV), or they may consider a caesarean delivery.

Physical Changes and Symptoms at 38 Weeks Pregnant

As your body prepares for labour, you’ll likely experience some changes and symptoms. Many of these are natural and indicate that your body is gearing up for childbirth.

Common Symptoms at 38 Weeks Pregnant

Increased Pressure on the Pelvis: As your baby drops lower into your pelvis, you may feel more pressure in this area. This can lead to discomfort when standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods.

Braxton Hicks Contractions: These practice contractions are your body’s way of preparing for labour. They are typically irregular and don’t increase in intensity. However, if they become frequent and painful, it may be time to head to the hospital.

Back and Leg Pain: The weight of your baby and the pressure on your pelvis can cause pain in your lower back and legs. Incorporating antenatal yoga or receiving prenatal massage can help alleviate some of this discomfort.

Frequent Urination: As your baby’s head descends into the pelvis, it puts more pressure on your bladder, causing you to urinate more frequently.

Fatigue: It’s normal to feel more tired than usual as you approach the end of your pregnancy. Take time to rest and recharge, as you’ll need energy for the labour process.

Mood Swings: Hormonal changes and anticipation of the big day can lead to mood swings. It’s important to communicate with your partner and your support network during this time.

Swelling: Swelling in the feet, ankles, and hands is common in the third trimester. Make sure to elevate your feet when possible and stay hydrated to help reduce swelling.

The Importance of Antenatal Care at 38 Weeks

Maintaining regular antenatal care during the final weeks of pregnancy is vital for both your health and your baby’s well-being. At 38 weeks, you should be attending your antenatal appointments to ensure everything is progressing smoothly and to get any last-minute advice or support.

What Happens at Your 38-Week Antenatal Appointment?

Blood Pressure Checks: Monitoring your blood pressure is essential to check for preeclampsia, a pregnancy-related condition that can cause complications for both you and your baby.

Urine Tests: Your urine will be tested for signs of infection, protein, or glucose, which can indicate conditions such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.

Baby’s Position: Your healthcare provider will check the position of your baby to confirm that they are head-down. If your baby is not in the correct position, your doctor may recommend interventions or discuss the possibility of a caesarean section.

Vaginal Exam: At this stage, your healthcare provider may perform a vaginal exam to check for signs of cervical dilation and effacement, which indicates how close you are to labour.

Discussion of Birth Plan: This is the time to talk about your preferences for labour, including pain relief options and any other preferences you have for the birth experience.

The Role of Antenatal Support and Education

Having strong antenatal support is crucial as you enter the final stages of pregnancy. This support can come from your partner, family, friends, and healthcare providers. It’s also important to continue with antenatal education to prepare for labour, delivery, and caring for your newborn.

The Value of Antenatal Classes

Labour and Delivery Preparation: Antenatal classes help you understand the process of labour, what to expect, and how to cope with contractions and delivery. These classes can provide reassurance and reduce fear.

Postpartum Care: Antenatal classes don’t just focus on the birth process. They also cover what to expect after birth, including breastfeeding, infant care, and how to manage your own recovery.

Partner Involvement: Attending antenatal classes with your partner can help them feel more involved and prepared to support you during labour.

Antenatal Education: What to Learn

Pain Management: Understand the different pain relief options available during labour, from natural methods like breathing techniques and antenatal yoga to medical interventions such as epidurals or medication.

Newborn Care: Learn how to care for your newborn, from bathing and feeding to understanding their sleep patterns and soothing techniques.

Breastfeeding: If you plan to breastfeed, antenatal education can provide helpful tips and guidance on how to get started and avoid common challenges.

Antenatal Fitness and Relaxation During Pregnancy

Staying active and relaxed is important for both your physical and mental well-being in the final stages of pregnancy. Antenatal fitness, including antenatal yoga and prenatal massage, can provide numerous benefits as you prepare for labour.

The Benefits of Antenatal Yoga

Flexibility and Strength: Yoga during pregnancy helps maintain flexibility and strengthen the muscles, especially in the pelvic area, which is vital for childbirth.

Breathing Techniques: Focusing on your breath during yoga for pregnancy can help you stay calm and relaxed during labour, making it easier to manage contractions.

Reduced Stress: The calming effects of antenatal yoga can help reduce anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation in both body and mind.

Improved Posture: Antenatal fitness can help improve your posture as your body undergoes changes to accommodate the growing baby, which can reduce back pain.

Prenatal Massage: A Relaxing Way to Relieve Tension

Prenatal massage can be incredibly effective at alleviating the discomforts of late pregnancy, including back pain, leg cramps, and swelling. Massage for pregnancy also promotes relaxation, which can help you better cope with the stress and anticipation leading up to the birth.

Final Preparations for Labour and Birth

As you enter the last weeks of pregnancy, now is the time to make final preparations for the birth. In addition to attending antenatal appointments and following your antenatal care plan, ensure that your hospital bag is packed, your birth plan is finalised, and you’re ready to go when labour begins.

Things to Prepare

Hospital Bag: Pack everything you’ll need for your hospital stay, including clothes, toiletries, and baby essentials like nappies and a car seat.

Birth Plan: Discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider and make sure everyone is on the same page regarding your preferences for labour.

Support Network: Ensure that your support network—whether it’s your partner, a friend, or a doula—is prepared and knows what to expect when labour starts.

Conclusion: Embrace the Final Weeks with Antenatal Support and Education

At 38 weeks pregnant, you’re just a step away from meeting your baby. With the right antenatal care, antenatal appointments, and antenatal support, you can feel confident and prepared for the birth ahead. Take time to engage in prenatal yoga, receive prenatal massage, and attend antenatal classes to learn about the birth process and newborn care. You’re almost there, and with the right knowledge and preparation, you’ll be ready for the incredible experience of becoming a parent.