Week 38 Pregnancy

Third Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

38 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the third trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of a leek.
Routine check.
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 38 weeks pregnant and in your third trimester. Your baby is about the size of a leek. This week's key development: Fine-Tuning. NHS note: Routine check.

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 37

Week 39

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of a leek.

Fine-Tuning — Your baby's brain and nervous system are still refining their connections right up until birth. The lungs are maturing with every breath practice. Meconium — your baby's first bowel movement — is accumulating in the intestines. You may be feeling very ready to meet them.

Leek

Approx. 49.8cm

Your Symptoms

Itchy belly
Anxiety or excitement
Difficulty moving

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

Routine check. Midwife will discuss what happens if you go past your due date.

Practical Advice for Week 38

Nutrition

Continue vitamin D and dates.
Pack energy snacks in your hospital bag — cereal bars, dried fruit, nuts.
Eat well but don't force large meals — your stomach is very compressed.
Stay hydrated — especially important if early labour begins.

Exercise

Walking, birth ball, and gentle stretching are ideal.
Practice breathing and pushing techniques from your antenatal classes.
If you feel very tired, rest — your body may be conserving energy for labour.
Continue pelvic floor exercises.

Wellbeing

Itchy belly is normal — moisturise. But if itching is severe, tell your midwife (ICP risk).
Anxiety and excitement are perfectly normal this close to your due date.
Difficulty sleeping is almost universal — try guided meditation apps.
Enjoy these last days — read, watch films, take naps. This time won't come again.

Preparation

Your midwife will discuss what happens if you go past your due date.
Know the difference between Braxton Hicks and real contractions.
Charge your phone and pack a long charger cable for hospital.
Pre-register at your hospital if that option is available.

Tip of the Week

Try to relax and enjoy these final days. Watch movies, read, and rest as much as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 38

How many months is 38 weeks pregnant?

At 38 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 8 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 38 weeks?

At 38 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of a leek (about 49.8cm). Your baby's brain and nervous system are still refining their connections right up until birth. The lungs are maturing with every breath practice. Meconium

What are the common symptoms at 38 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include itchy belly, anxiety or excitement, difficulty moving. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 38 weeks in the third trimester?

Yes, 38 weeks falls within the third trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 38 weeks?

Routine check. Midwife will discuss what happens if you go past your due date.