baby born at 37 weeks average weight?

You and your baby at 37 weeks pregnant
Your baby at 37 weeks

At 37 weeks, your pregnancy is considered full-term. The average baby weighs around 3-4kg by now. Your baby is ready to be born, and you'll be meeting them some time in the next few weeks.

Your baby's gut (digestive system) now contains meconium – the sticky green substance that will form your baby's first poo after birth. It may include bits of the lanugo (fine hair) that covered your baby earlier in pregnancy.
You at 37 weeks

When you're around 37 weeks pregnant, if it's your first pregnancy, your baby moves down ready to be born. You may feel more comfortable when this happens, and you'll probably also feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen.

If it's not your first pregnancy, the baby may not move down until labour.

You may notice some leaking from your nipples, and this is normal.
Things to think about

the signs of labour
pain relief in labour, including things you can do yourself
what happens at the hospital or birth centre and when to contact your antenatal team
tips for your birth partner to support you during labour and birth
what happens if your baby is breech, when a baby is born bottom first, which is more complicated than a head-first birth
a caesarean, when you have surgery to deliver your baby
the newborn blood spot (heel prick) test that will be offered to your baby

The Start4Life site has more about you and your baby at 37 weeks pregnant.

You can sign up for Start4Life's weekly emails for expert advice, videos and tips on pregnancy, birth and beyond.
Video: What positions are best for giving birth?

In this video, a midwife talks through some of the best positions to give birth.
Media last reviewed: 20 March 2020
Media review due: 20 March 2023
More in 28 to 40+ weeks pregnant

You and your baby at 28 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 29 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 30 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 31 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 32 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 33 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 34 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 35 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 36 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 37 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 38 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 39 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 40 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 41 weeks pregnant
You and your baby at 42 weeks pregnant

Page last reviewed: 13 October 2021
Next review due: 13 October 2024