Week 37: Drop It Low

Welcome to week 37! This is another milestone week in your pregnancy journey, as your baby is now officially considered term! This means that your baby is well-equipped to survive outside your womb without intervention. Insomnia becomes a bigger hurdle now as your baby’s size makes it difficult to get comfortable at night. You may also notice mild swelling in your ankles after sitting or standing still for too long. A little bit of movement and elevating your legs when resting will help to improve swelling, but it will likely linger until after delivery. You may start to feel more pressure in your pelvis as your baby “drops” or engages into your pelvis to prepare for birth. This feeling does not mean that labour is starting but that your baby is getting into position. This increased pressure can feel uncomfortable and can increase pelvic and hip discomfort. Continue to utilize the coping mechanisms and relaxing techniques you have learned throughout your pregnancy to help you through the pain. And prepare your mind for labour! Learn different tools and tricks to cope with the pain of contractions and to increase your mental strength.

Your baby is 37 weeks! As stated above, this means your baby is considered term. Your baby is well equipped for birth and labour but still needs time to build up sufficient fat stores. Additionally, he or she has strengthened key muscles required for survival. During the 28-38th weeks, your antibodies pass through the placenta to your baby and provide them with short-term immunity to diseases which you are immune to. Also, your baby’s skin is now absorbing that thick vernix layer and is becoming less wrinkled. Your baby is almost ready for his or her birthday!