37 weeks 
pregnant

Long before your baby is in your arms, your body is preparing for their first meal. That means you may notice leaking breasts during the last few weeks of your pregnancy. This can happen any time, but it's more common when your nipples are stimulated, say if you're exercising or having sex.

The liquid that comes from your breasts is colostrum – the first milk produced for your baby. It's thicker and more opaque than mature breast milk. It can also be sticky. And it's so packed with nutrients your baby needs that it's often called "liquid gold."

If your leaky breasts are bothering you or leaving marks, slip nursing pads into your bra to absorb the liquid. And if you aren't leaking, don't worry. That's perfectly normal, too, and it isn't a sign that your breasts won't be ready to do their job!

You might notice an increase in vaginal discharge by 37 weeks, and it may be clear, pink, or even slightly bloody. You may see your mucus plug, the thick clump of mucus in your cervical canal that prevented bacteria from getting into your uterus during pregnancy. Once you're getting close to labor, or in labor, the mucus plug could come out gradually or all at once.

You may also see some "bloody show" (mucus tinged with blood) in the toilet or in your undies. Bloody show usually appears simultaneously or shortly after the mucus plug. It's formed as the cervix softens, thins out, and begins to dilate in preparation for labor, causing some blood vessels in the cervix to rupture.

If you have heavier spotting or bleeding or foul-smelling discharge, call your doctor or midwife right away. Also, if the discharge feels like a constant leaking or flow, call your provider. This could be a sign that your water has broken.

Keep monitoring your baby's kicks, and let your provider know immediately if you notice a decrease. Though your baby's quarters are getting cozy, they should still be as active as before. Since they're getting stronger, their movements might become more noticeable, or even painful.

Most of the time, you'll feel movement throughout the day. But if your abdomen suddenly seems too quiet and peaceful, pay close attention and count your baby's movements. If you don't notice 10 distinct movements in two hours, call your provider. Decreased movement can be a sign of distress, and it's always better to err on the side of caution.

Now that you're 37 weeks pregnant, your baby is crowding your stomach, intestines, and other organs. That can lead to a host of symptoms including gas, bloating, constipation, and indigestion.

To keep gas and bloating at bay, eat smaller meals and don't drink too much in one sitting. After eating, go for a gentle walk to get your digestion moving. If you notice certain foods (like beans or broccoli) trigger your gas, avoid those for now.

Though gas is a normal part of pregnancy, call your provider if your intestinal discomfort ever feels more like abdominal pain or cramping, if you have blood in your stool, or if you have severe diarrhea or constipation.

More than 60% of pregnant women have lower back pain. Especially at this point in pregnancy, it can be very painful – but there are many possible ways to get relief. First, think about your posture. Try not to slouch or arch your back. That's easier said than done when you're carrying a nearly full-term baby – but still, try to stand as straight as possible.

Although it may seem counterintuitive, exercise can help with lower back pain. Swimming is a particularly great workout during the last few weeks. The water takes pressure off your bones and joints, including that aching back. Pelvic tilts can also help a sore back.

Another relaxing remedy? A prenatal massage to loosen sore muscles. Treating yourself to an afternoon of self-care before your baby arrives is time well spent.

If none of these remedies help, talk to your provider. They may suggest other options, like physical therapy or medication.