My baby is measuring small at 38 weeks. Will the doctor induce labour?

A smaller measurement does not always mean there is a problem, as ultrasound estimates can vary. Decisions about delivery depend on factors like growth pattern, baby’s well-being, and overall pregnancy health.

Can walking help bring on labour at 38 weeks?

Walking can help you stay active and comfortable in late pregnancy, but it does not guarantee that labour will begin. Your body and baby decide when labour starts naturally.

My doctor says my baby is not engaged yet at 38 weeks. Is that a problem?

Some babies engage before labour, while others move lower during labour itself. The timing can vary, especially depending on whether it is your first pregnancy.

Can my baby’s position still change at 38 weeks?

By 38 weeks, babies have less space to move, but small position changes can still happen. Your healthcare provider will monitor the baby’s position as delivery approaches.

Content verified by Dr. Shubhi Gupta

Third Trimester

Week 38

Weeks to go!

Your baby is about the size of a Swiss chard. Vernix is beginning to shed, while the brain and nervous system continue their final stages of development. Strong movements may still be felt despite limited space.

Weight

2.5kg

Length

33 cm

Days Left

- Parts of the skeleton, particularly the long bones of the arms and legs, have hardened, a process known as ossification. - The hands may be curled into fists, grasping the umbilical cord, or free-floating with fingers outstretched. The grasp reflex is very strong. - The head may now be fully engaged. At this stage there are several normal variations in position and the direction in which the baby is facing. - At 38 weeks the average crown to heel length is 49.8cm (19.6in) and the average weight is 3.1kg (6.8lb. - The placenta has reached its full size and is spread out like a plate. It will continue to function for the full duration of the pregnancy. Just as your baby is preparing for life his/her outside the womb, at 38 weeks your body is also preparing for the big day. You’re getting very close to finally meeting your baby. By this week your baby should weigh approximately 2.8-3.2 kg. Even though your baby is considered full term after week 37, it is still better for the baby to remain in the womb for longer. - Your baby is continuing to grow in your belly, but the majority of the organs are mature and fully functioning. The only exceptions are your baby’s brain and lungs. These two organs can function outside of the womb at this point, although they will continue to mature during your baby’s childhood. - The baby's digestive system now contains meconium which is the sticky, green substance that will form your baby's first poop after birth.

Expert Advice

Reviewed by: Mom Speak Let’s hear what moms have to say. “I had a bicornuate uterus (commonly referred to as a "heart-shaped" uterus, is a uterus composed of two separate chambers separated by a septum) and naturally my baby had less space to grow compared to a baby growing in a normal shaped uterus. For precautionary measures I underwent 4-5 NSTs in my last few weeks of pregnancy. It was overwhelming at first but later I tried bonding with my baby whenever he moved in my womb,” shares Himadri Gulati. “I remember going for my regular checkup and my doctor advised me to do pelvic exercise to prepare me for labor. I suggest all moms to practice those exercises for a smooth birthing experience,” shares Richa Bhasin.

“Sometimes we ask the moms to undergo a Non Stress Test (NST). It’s nothing serious though – you will be asked to lie down, and a fetal monitor will be attached to your abdomen. You will push a button every time you feel your baby move, and the monitor records your baby’s heartbeat. This is usually done for us to know if your baby is under any stress in your womb. The experience can be overwhelming, but I request you to cooperate with your doctor.” Dr. Sangeeta Malhotra Medical Superintendent CGHS Maternity and Gynae Hospital, Delhi