Week 37 Pregnancy
You are 37 weeks pregnant and in your third trimester. Your baby is about the size of a bunch of Swiss chard. This week's key development: Early Term. NHS note: Midwife appointment to check baby's position and your blood pressure.
Baby's Development
Your baby is about the size of a bunch of Swiss chard.
Early Term — Your baby is now considered early term and is largely ready for life outside the womb. They're continuing to gain weight and build the fat stores that will keep them warm after birth. Every extra day now is time well spent — continued growth and brain maturation are still happening.
Your Symptoms
- Loss of mucus plug
- Nesting instinct
- Diarrhoea (body clearing out for labour)
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
Midwife appointment to check baby's position and your blood pressure.
Practical Advice for Week 37
Nutrition
- Continue vitamin D and eating dates daily.
- Keep meals light and frequent — your stomach has very little room.
- Protein and complex carbs give sustained energy for early labour.
- Raspberry leaf tea is popular from 37 weeks — some believe it tones the uterus (evidence is mixed).
Exercise
- Walking is the best exercise now — it may even encourage labour.
- Birth ball bouncing and hip circles prepare the pelvis.
- Rest between activities — your body is preparing for a marathon.
- Gentle stretching keeps muscles supple for birth.
Wellbeing
- Loss of the mucus plug can happen days or weeks before labour — it's not an emergency.
- The nesting instinct may be strong — clean and organise if it brings you comfort.
- Diarrhoea can be your body clearing out in preparation for labour.
- If you feel anxious, practise your breathing and talk to your midwife.
Preparation
- Stock your freezer with easy-to-reheat meals for the first weeks with your newborn.
- Your baby is now early term — they could arrive safely any time.
- Ensure essential baby items are washed, assembled, and ready.
- If you have pets, plan their care for when you go into labour.
Tip of the Week
Stock your freezer with easy-to-reheat meals for the first few weeks with your newborn.
Track Your Due Date
Keep track of your pregnancy milestones, NHS scans, and countdown to your due date.
Go to TrackerNHS Resources
Find trusted information on financial support, antenatal classes, and local maternity services.
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