You have reached the 38th week of pregnancy and this is the week when your baby is considered fully developed, even if it is born. So, how does the baby develop at 38 weeks of pregnancy? Can a 38-week baby be born? How much does a 38-week baby weigh? Does the baby's eye color appear at 38 weeks of pregnancy?

Prof. Dr. Erkut Attar, Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Yeditepe University Hospitals and IVF Specialist, answered what happened in the 38th week of pregnancy.

How much does a 38-Week Baby Weigh?

Its weight averaged 3100 grams and its height was 48.5 cm. The head circumference and abdominal circumference are the same size. After this week, your baby is considered full-term, i.e., fully developed.

Development of the Baby at 38 Weeks of Pregnancy

If it is still in the womb this week, its brain and lungs will continue to develop and will be fully developed by next week. In this week, your baby continues to gain weight and fat tissue increases.

Is Eye Color Visible at 38 Weeks of Pregnancy?

The iris tissue that determines your baby's eye color is not rich enough in pigment, so it will appear blue or dark blue. After birth, the eye color may gradually change.

What Preparations Should the Mother Make at 38 Weeks of Pregnancy?

It is useful to prepare your hospital bag and your list starting from this week. 

Your appointments with your doctor will become more frequent and you will be checked every week. During your check-up this week, a pelvic examination will be performed to check whether your birth path is suitable for the baby, whether your baby is coming head-first or breech, and whether your cervix is dilated or thinned.