Organ functions are nearly at full speed
Week 38: Your baby is making final preparations for birth
During Week 38, your baby's systems and functions continue to develop:
- Your baby's organ functions work out the final kinks when you are 38 weeks pregnant.
- His nervous system functions increase.
- His brain helps him refine breathing, improve digestion, regulate his heart rate, and prepare for eating.
- Your baby might pass solid waste, called meconium, prior to delivery. If your water breaks or leaks and it is greenish-brown in color, this might indicate meconium spotting in your amniotic fluid. Call your doctor right away if this happens.
- He has reached what will likely be his birth length.
Your Week 38 nutrition and health
Spicy food won’t induce labor
Contrary to popular belief, there is no scientific proof that spicy food can induce labor. If spicy foods have been part of your diet for the duration of your pregnancy, there is no reason to stop eating them now. However, if spicy foods are new to your diet, you might experience symptoms of heartburn rather than actual labor.
Spicy food might disrupt your sleep
Spicy food is perfectly safe for pregnant women. However, if you are having trouble sleeping, spicy food could be a contributing factor. Dishes seasoned with garlic, chilies, cayenne, or other hot spices can cause nagging heartburn or indigestion.
If you love spicy food and can’t do without it, try to limit these foods to breakfast or lunch, instead of dinner or evening snacks.
