Your pregnancy - week 37

Inside story

Your baby weighs about 2.95kg (6.5lb) this week and measures about 35cm (14in) from crown to rump. At this stage your baby's main occupation is accumulating more body fat and you may notice movements become more subtle. As long as you're feeling some movements in each 24-hour period you have nothing to worry about – and even if you don't, you've probably just slept through your baby's most vigorous movements or just not noticed them. If movements are quiet, reassure yourself by seeing your midwife or obstetrician who will check your baby's heartbeat.

On the outside

If your baby's head hasn't engaged yet, you might find your uterus has grown upwards even more and is sitting around 6.5in (16.5cm) from your belly button. You're probably feeling fit to burst and most uncomfortable. With luck you'll have stopped putting on weight by now, in any case, having gained anything between around 25-35lb (11-13.5kg).

Your breasts will be sporting a network of blue veins, visible just below the surface of the skin; your areolas (the flat, circular outer parts of your nipples) will have grown darker and will be sporting little bumps known as 'Montgomery's tubercles' (these are milk ducts from which your milk will flow if you breastfeed); the central parts of your nipples may now be protruding. Don't worry if you have flat or inverted nipples as your baby will latch onto the breast tissue. Your midwife will have tips and advice on latching on after the birth.

Things to think about

Welcome to the world of nursing bras. This is the time to get measured and stock up. Maternity bras come in many shapes and styles; some cups have zips; some simply fold away from the breast; most hook on to the bra straps and drop down easily in one movement.

If your breasts are heavy, make sure you choose a style with wide straps and a deep back panel and sides to support the weight. There's no substitute for getting fitted by an expert, so do visit a department of baby store and ask for assistance. Buy at least two bras so you always have one at the ready while the other's in the wash.

If you've started your maternity leave, make the most of your remaining time as a couple, as well as time alone. Why not revisit some of your favourite places for dates when you were first together, or enjoy an intimate meal or a trip to the theatre while you can? Make sure you don't spend all your time talking about new parenthood: soon enough it'll be your main topic of conversation.