**Week 37: Finishing Touches**
As you enter the final stretch of your pregnancy, your baby is putting on the finishing touches. Their skin is thickening and developing a layer of vernix caseosa, a waxy substance that protects their skin from the amniotic fluid. Their hair is growing longer and their nails are getting harder. Your baby is also practicing breathing by taking in and expelling amniotic fluid. They are also starting to get into position for birth, head down and facing your back.
**Week 38: Ready to Meet the World**
Your baby is now fully developed and ready to be born. They weigh about 6-7 pounds and are about 19-20 inches long. Their head is still soft and moldable, which will help them fit through the birth canal. Their lungs are fully mature and they are able to breathe on their own. Your baby is also starting to produce vernix caseosa, a waxy substance that protects their skin from the amniotic fluid.
**Week 39: Waiting Game**
Your baby is now just waiting to be born. They are still gaining weight and their lungs are continuing to mature. You may start to experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are practice contractions that help your body prepare for labor. Your baby is also starting to get into position for birth, head down and facing your back.
**Week 40: Time to Pop!**
Your baby is now full-term and ready to be born. They weigh about 7-8 pounds and are about 20-21 inches long. Their head is still soft and moldable, which will help them fit through the birth canal. Their lungs are fully mature and they are able to breathe on their own. Your baby is also starting to produce vernix caseosa, a waxy substance that protects their skin from the amniotic fluid.
**Labor and Delivery**
Labor is the process of giving birth to your baby. It begins with contractions, which are rhythmic tightening of the muscles in your uterus. Contractions help to dilate your cervix, which is the opening to your uterus. Once your cervix is fully dilated, your baby will be born. Delivery is the process of pushing your baby out of your vagina. Your doctor or midwife will help you with this process.
**After Birth**
After your baby is born, you will be taken to a recovery room where you can rest and bond with your new baby. You will also be given instructions on how to care for your baby and yourself. Most new mothers stay in the hospital for 1-2 days after giving birth.
**Congratulations!**
Congratulations on your new baby! This is an exciting time and there is so much to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or midwife any questions you have..
