Can you believe you're 37 weeks along now? Most pregnancies will last a few more weeks, but you can rest easy knowing that if you were to go into labor now, everything would be okay. It's important to do everything you can to make sure you have a safe and healthy delivery, so keep reading to find out which test your doctor should run now.
- You're Early Term!
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It's best if your baby can fully develop and make it to at least 39 weeks in the womb, but at 37 weeks your baby is officially early term—meaning that your baby is unlikely to need extreme medical support after birth. There have been studies linking early term birth to low blood sugar and respiratory issues, but the risk is still low; fewer than 10% of babies born during the early term period require medical intervention.
- Hicks. Braxton-Hicks
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Your belly has had just about enough of this and is gearing up to evict the interloper. You're likely noticing now that when you're active, your contractions kick in more, too. Make sure that you're getting plenty of water now—you should be drinking at least 2 liters of water daily right now—and rest when the contractions become bothersome. If they don't settle down with rest, call your OB. They won't stop labor if it happens now, but you should still be under close care.
- We're Engaged!
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Your baby should move into position around this time. Her head will be down and ready to descend into your pelvis. Your OB is likely monitoring your baby's position now and will order an ultrasound to confirm if there is any suspicion your baby is in a breech position. There is still time for baby to turn, but as your baby's lodgings become more cramped, turning becomes more difficult. If your baby is breech right now, consult with an acupuncturist or chiropractor for help (with your OB's approval, of course).
- Reminder: Group B Strep
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If you haven't been tested for Group B Strep, call your OB immediately. A quick swab of your rear end will determine if you're positive for the bacteria. Group B Strep can cause disease in your newborn if you're not treated properly during labor and delivery.