Week 37

You’re full term. Prepare for labor with gentle movement, upright positions, breathing, and relaxation techniques. Learn when labor may start, signs to watch for, and when to call your provider.

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Your baby is the size of a small watermelon!

Your baby is now considered full term! It’s still healthy for them to stay in a little longer. Their brain will keep growing over the next two weeks.

Their tiny toenails now reach the tips of their toes.

You may start to feel your baby drop lower into your pelvis as they get ready for birth.

You’re full term! It's time to prepare for birth by learning gentle movement, upright positions, and breathing techniques that may help you cope and stay comfortable in labor.

If you're looking for more ways to support labor or have questions about pushing, we have more information about your options and tips that may help promote vaginal birth.

When Labor Starts

You can also get prepared by learning how to tell if you might be in labor—like regular, strong contractions, your water breaking, or bloody show—plus what’s normal in early labor and when to call your provider.

Explore our early labor toolkit for tips on what to do at home when labor starts. Your support people are also important when labor starts and throughout early labor, so talk to them about how they can best care for you.

Inducing Labor

Have you heard of labor induction? You may have questions about what it is or common reasons it’s recommended. Ask your provider any questions you have, so you can make an informed choice.

Pregnancy Topics Related to Week 37

Beautiful pregnant mother touching and looking at her pregnant belly at home

What To Expect During Labor

How to Tell if You’re in Labor

If you think you’re in labor, call us right away! We can help you decide if you should come to the hospital or wait at home. Here are some signs that labor might be starting, and other signs to watch for.

A pregnant woman using oil on her tummy and smelling essential oil for morning sickness and maternity health.

Preparing For Birth

Early Labor Toolkit: What to Do When Labor Starts

When contractions begin, it means your body is getting ready for birth. This first stage, called early labor, can last many hours—sometimes eight to 24 or more.

What To Expect During Labor

Support During Your Labor and Birth

Having support can be very helpful during labor and birth. Your support person may be your partner, a friend, a family member, or the father of the baby. In addition to your support person, you can also have a doula present at your delivery. The choice is yours, but make sure to plan ahead of time for the support you need.

What To Expect During Labor

Laboring and Pushing Positions

There are lots of different ways to move or position yourself during labor. In general, the best one is whatever feels most comfortable for you, but your care team may suggest certain options.

Preparing For Birth

How to Prepare for Labor and Birth

Most people who want to have a vaginal birth will have a vaginal birth! But about 1 out of 4 pregnant people will have a cesarean birth, or C-section, even though that was not their plan. These tips may increase your chances of having the vaginal birth you want.

What To Expect During Labor

Everything You Need to Know About Labor Induction

Induction of labor is when medicines or treatments are used to start labor, before it starts on its own. Labor induction takes time and may be longer than you expect. It may feel different from labor that starts on its own.