Kidneys are fully developed and the liver can process some waste
Baby this week: about 45.9 cm — head to heel · about 2.4 kg
≈ 45.9 cm — about the size of a honeydew melon
Illustration enlarged for clarity — the amber marker shows true relative size
Your baby this week
- Kidneys are fully developed and functioning
- The liver can process some waste products on its own
- Most of the lanugo hair has shed by now, though some babies still have patches at birth
- Growth is focused on adding fat rather than length at this stage
Your body this week
- Pelvic pressure often increases as the baby moves lower into position
- Practice contractions may feel stronger and more frequent, though true labor contractions typically follow a regular, intensifying pattern
This week's tip: Learning the difference between Braxton Hicks and true labor contractions can help you feel more prepared — your provider can walk you through the signs to watch for.
When to get help now
Contact your maternity unit now, even at night, if your baby is moving less than usual or the pattern has changed, you have any vaginal bleeding, fluid leaks from your vagina, you have regular or painful contractions before 37 weeks, or you have a severe headache, vision changes, pain just below the ribs or sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet. Do not wait until the next day.
Sizes and milestones are typical ranges — every pregnancy runs on its own clock. Educational content; your prenatal care team's guidance always comes first.