General information only — not medical advice. This page provides general, well-established information about pregnancy development and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your pregnancy.

38 Weeks Pregnant

Q: What trimester is week 38 of pregnancy?

Week 38 falls in the Third Trimester. The first trimester covers weeks 1–13, the second trimester covers weeks 14–27, and the third trimester covers weeks 28 through delivery. This is a general informational guide — consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance about your pregnancy.

Q: How many weeks are left at 38 weeks pregnant?

At 38 weeks pregnant, there are approximately 2 weeks remaining until the estimated due date (based on a standard 40-week pregnancy). Individual pregnancies vary — due dates are estimates, and normal delivery typically occurs between weeks 37 and 42. Always consult your healthcare provider for information specific to your pregnancy.

Third Trimester — ≈2 weeks to go

Week 38 Week 40 (due date)

Week 38 falls in the Third Trimester — ≈2 weeks to go. A standard pregnancy is counted as 40 weeks from the last menstrual period. Individual pregnancies vary — due dates are estimates, and normal delivery typically occurs between weeks 37 and 42.

Development at 38 Weeks

During week 38, the brain and lungs are still making final preparations even as the baby is considered full term. The vernix caseosa and lanugo are mostly gone. The fetus is roughly the size of a leek. The baby is accumulating more fat reserves. Most of the development that occurs in these final weeks focuses on brain maturation.

Size Comparison

Approximate size — week 38

Leek (~50 cm)

Common Experiences at 38 Weeks

Many people are very close to their due date at week 38. Some people experience increased vaginal discharge or pelvic pressure. Braxton Hicks contractions may be more frequent. Fatigue is very common. Many people are focused on recognizing signs of labor and knowing when to contact their provider.

Experiences vary widely between individuals. If you have concerns about any symptom, contact your healthcare provider.

General Planning Checklist — Week 38

These are general planning suggestions only — not medical instructions. Follow your healthcare provider's specific guidance for your pregnancy.

Attend weekly prenatal appointments as directed
Know the labor signs your provider has described and when to call
Ensure your birth bag is ready and support plans are confirmed
Rest as much as possible and stay in communication with your provider

Nearby Weeks

36 Weeks Pregnant · 37 Weeks Pregnant · 39 Weeks Pregnant · 40 Weeks Pregnant

Frequently Asked Questions

What trimester is week 38 of pregnancy?

Week 38 is in the Third Trimester — ≈2 weeks to go. The first trimester covers weeks 1–13, the second trimester covers weeks 14–27, and the third trimester covers weeks 28 through delivery. This is general information — your healthcare provider can give you guidance specific to your pregnancy.

How many weeks are left at 38 weeks pregnant?

Based on a standard 40-week pregnancy, week 38 means approximately Third Trimester — ≈2 weeks to go with time remaining as noted above. Keep in mind that due dates are estimates — normal delivery typically occurs between weeks 37 and 42. Always follow your healthcare provider's guidance about your specific pregnancy.

Not medical advice. The information on this page is for general informational purposes only. Pregnancy experiences vary significantly between individuals. Nothing on this page should be used as a basis for medical decisions. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for advice about your specific pregnancy, symptoms, or health concerns. In an emergency, contact emergency services immediately.