Week 38

Most babies arrive within two weeks of their due date. Newborn care begins right after birth. Learn about vitamin K, eye ointment, vaccines, and what to expect in the first hours.

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Your baby is the size of a pumpkin!

What color eyes will your baby have? If they’re born with blue eyes, they might stay blue or change to green, hazel, or brown. If they’re born with brown eyes, they’ll most likely stay brown.

Your baby is gaining about half a pound each week now as they grow into their final size before birth.

Most babies arrive within two weeks of their due date. Many people go past their due date, and this can be normal. Learn what it means to go past your due date, what monitoring or next steps may look like, and when induction of labor is recommended. You can also explore safe self-help tips that may help your body get ready for labor.

While you wait, consider prepping for baby by washing all those cute little clothes and childproofing your home.

Early Newborn Care

Newborn care starts right after birth. Learn about your baby’s first medicines, exams, and tests—like vitamin K, eye ointment, and vaccines—and what to expect in the first day or two.

You should also review our going home with baby checklist to make sure you have everything you need to safely return home with your baby.

Making A Decision About Circumcision

Have questions about circumcision? Learn more so you can make the choice that feels right for your family.

Pregnancy Topics Related to Week 38

Getting Ready For Baby

Going Past Your Due Date

It’s common to feel uncertain—or even impatient—when your due date passes and your baby hasn’t arrived. But in most cases, going a little past your due date is completely normal.

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.

What To Expect During Labor

Helping Your Labor Start with Cervical Ripening

If your healthcare provider recommends actively trying to get your labor started (inducing labor), you may be able to begin the process at home. This guide explains what cervical ripening is, what to expect, and how to stay safe and comfortable.

At The Hospital With Baby

Exams and Tests for Your Baby

Your baby will need a few routine tests and immunizations while you are in the hospital. This is to make sure that they’re healthy when they’re born and to help them stay healthy.

At The Hospital With Baby

Getting Ready to Go Home: Baby Checklist

Going home with your baby is an exciting milestone. Before you leave the hospital, it helps to have a few important items ready and know what to expect.

Young beautiful couple expecting a baby. Happy family life concept

Getting Ready For Baby

The Circumcision Decision

If you have a male baby, we'll ask you about circumcision. Circumcision is a small surgery where the skin that covers the tip of the penis (the foreskin) is removed.