Hello, mama! Can you believe it? You’ve made it to week 37 of your twin pregnancy! By this point, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement, nerves, and maybe even a little bit of exhaustion. You’re so close to meeting your precious babies (if you haven’t already), and I’m sure your mind is buzzing with everything you need to do to prepare for their arrival.
The good news is that you’ve already done most of the hard work. Now, it’s time to get everything in place for a smooth and happy birth day.
This week, we’re focusing on preparing for your twins’ arrival—from planning for an induction to making sure you get the support you need before leaving the hospital. Let’s dive into what you can expect and how you can make the most of these final days of your pregnancy.
How are you feeling mama?
Twin Pregnancy Symptoms at 37 Weeks
At week 37, your body is probably feeling the full weight of carrying two babies! You might notice your belly has dropped as your twins settle lower in preparation for birth. This can make breathing easier but may increase the pressure on your pelvis.
You might also feel more Braxton Hicks contractions as your body gets ready for labor. Rest as much as you can and listen to your body—every ache and twinge is part of the incredible journey you’re on.
Some other common symptoms you might be feeling this week include:
- Swelling in your hands, feet, and ankles
- Fatigue (which might feel overwhelming by now!)
- Increased back pain as your body supports the extra weight
- Frequent urination as your twins press on your bladder
Be kind to yourself, mama. If you’re feeling extra emotional or tired, that’s completely normal at this stage. You’re doing an amazing job, and it’s okay to take it easy.
What are your twins up to this week?
Your Twins at 37 Weeks – Height & Weight
Your twins are now considered full-term, which means they could arrive any day! Each baby is about the size of a Swiss chard or a watermelon, measuring around 19 inches long (48 cm) and weighing roughly 6 pounds (2.7 kg).
It’s common for twins to be a little smaller than singletons at birth because they’ve had to share space and nutrients. Remember, ultrasounds can only provide an estimate of their weight, so you may be surprised by their actual size when they’re born. Either way, your babies are ready to meet the world!
Your Twins’ Fetal Development at 37 Weeks
At 37 weeks, your twins’ bodies are fully developed and ready for life outside the womb. One of the biggest milestones at this stage is lung maturity. Their lungs are now capable of breathing on their own, which means if they were born today, they’d likely need minimal medical support. Brain development continues, and even though their brains are ready for basic life functions, they will continue to grow rapidly during their first few years.
Your babies are also adding a final layer of fat beneath their skin, which will help them regulate their body temperature after birth. Their reflexes—such as sucking and swallowing—are strong enough to begin breastfeeding or bottle-feeding soon after delivery. Their digestive systems are also developed, though they’ll only take in colostrum (the first milk) for the first few days before regular breast milk or formula starts.
What You Might Be Wondering About This Week
Preparing for a Scheduled Induction: What to Expect and How to Plan
If your doctor has scheduled an induction, it means your care team has determined that your twins are ready to be born, or that waiting longer could increase the risk of complications.
Induction is often recommended for twin pregnancies between 37-38 weeks to reduce risks related to the placenta or cord.
Here’s how to plan for your scheduled induction with twins:
First, pack your hospital bag with all the essentials. You’ll need clothes for yourself and the babies, personal items, and comfort items like snacks, a favorite pillow, and entertainment for what could be a long process.
On the day of the induction, get plenty of rest. You may feel nervous, but try to relax and take it one step at a time. Inductions can take anywhere from several hours to a few days, so prepare for a slow and steady process.
Also, while it’s good to have a birth plan, be prepared for changes. Flexibility will help you handle any surprises with ease!
Making the Most of Your Final Days Before Your Twins Arrive
As you approach delivery, it’s tempting to focus solely on last-minute preparations, but these final days are also an opportunity to relax, reflect, and prepare emotionally for the big changes ahead. Try to make space for activities that bring you joy and help you unwind.
Consider pampering yourself. A spa day, or even just a relaxing bath with soothing music, can work wonders for your mood and stress levels.
If you have a partner or family, now is the time to enjoy quality time together. Whether it’s a quiet dinner, a walk in the park, or a movie night, these moments will soon be a cherished memory of your pre-twins life.
It’s also important to mentally prepare for the transition to motherhood. While you can’t predict exactly how everything will go, take a moment to appreciate this special time before your babies arrive.
Setting Boundaries: How to Handle Hospital Visits and Prioritize Rest
After your twins are born, it’s natural for friends and family to be eager to meet them, but it’s essential to protect your recovery time and ensure that you and your babies are getting the rest you need.
Too many visitors can be overwhelming, especially when you’re healing, adjusting to life with twins, and learning how to feed and care for two newborns.
Before heading to the hospital, it’s a good idea to communicate your preferences to close family and friends. Set clear boundaries around hospital visits. Let them know if you prefer to have limited visitors or if you’d like a day or two with just your immediate family before opening up to others.
Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your rest and recovery. Ask for help if you need it, whether it’s with household chores, meal preparation, or holding a baby while you nap.
Don’t hesitate to lean on the hospital staff to manage visitors or ensure you have quiet time for yourself and your new family.
When Plans Change: Mentally Preparing for a Flexible Twin Birth Experience
No matter how carefully you’ve planned, the truth is that birth can be unpredictable. Whether you’ve been hoping for a natural birth or an epidural, it’s important to mentally prepare for things not going exactly as planned. In twin pregnancies, the possibility of needing a C-section or other interventions is higher, and having a flexible mindset can help reduce stress when things take an unexpected turn.
It’s helpful to view your birth plan as more of a guide than a strict set of rules. Talk to your doctor or midwife ahead of time about the possible scenarios that could arise and how they’ll be handled. Knowing what to expect if things don’t go according to plan can help you feel more in control.
Ultimately, the most important thing is the safe arrival of your babies, whether your birth goes according to plan or not. Focus on the bigger picture and trust that you and your babies will be in good hands.
Spotting the Signs: Key Labor Symptoms to Watch for with Twins
With twins, it’s common for labor to start naturally before your due date, so it’s important to know the key signs that it might be time to head to the hospital. Since you’re now at 37 weeks, these symptoms could appear at any moment.
One of the most obvious signs is regular contractions. These won’t go away when you change positions, unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, which tend to ease when you rest. If your contractions become stronger and closer together, that’s a clear signal labor may have started.
Another major sign is if your water breaks—whether it’s a gush or a slow leak. Any leaking fluid should be reported to your healthcare provider right away.
Also, pay attention to lower back pain, especially if it feels constant or doesn’t ease with rest. Increased pelvic pressure as your twins drop lower can also indicate that labor is near.
Navigating Postpartum: What to Ask for Help With Before Leaving the Hospital
Before you leave the hospital, make sure you’ve gotten all the support you need from the medical staff. Postpartum recovery and caring for twins can be overwhelming, but the nurses and doctors are there to help you feel more confident before heading home.
If you’re planning to breastfeed, ask to see a lactation consultant. Breastfeeding twins can be challenging, especially in the early days, and positioning can make all the difference. A lactation consultant can help with latch, positioning, and teaching you how to nurse both babies at the same time if you choose.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask for demonstrations on swaddling, diapering, and bathing your twins. These tasks might seem daunting when you’re doing them for two newborns at once, but getting hands-on help in the hospital can make things feel more manageable once you’re home.
Creating a Smooth Transition Home: Prepping Your Space for Twins
Bringing your twins home is a big transition, and having your space prepared will make those early days much easier. Start by setting up multiple feeding and changing stations. Having one in the nursery and one in the main living area will save you from running back and forth constantly.
Consider your sleeping arrangements as well. If you’re planning to room-share, make sure your bedroom is set up for safe co-sleeping with bassinets or a crib nearby. It’s important to follow safe sleep guidelines, like placing babies on their backs on a firm, flat surface without loose bedding.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of meal prep. Whether it’s stocking the freezer with homemade meals or making a list of easy, healthy delivery options, having food ready to go will help you focus on your babies without worrying about cooking.
Managing Your Emotions: Balancing Excitement and Nerves in the Final Stretch
As you approach your due date, it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. You’re likely excited to meet your twins but also feeling nervous about labor, delivery, and the changes ahead. One of the best ways to manage these emotions is to practice mindful breathing or meditation. Taking just a few moments a day to sit quietly, focus on your breath, and center your thoughts can help reduce anxiety.
It’s also important to talk through your feelings with your partner, friends, or family. Sharing your excitement and fears can help you feel supported and less overwhelmed.
Remember, it’s okay to feel a bit of everything—joy, anxiety, anticipation, and even some sadness as you say goodbye to pregnancy. Balancing these emotions will help you stay present and positive as you prepare to meet your babies.
Your Twin Birth Team: Understanding the Roles and Support You’ll Need on Delivery Day
Having twins usually means a larger birth team than with a singleton delivery. In addition to your OB-GYN or midwife, you’ll likely have extra nurses, possibly a neonatologist, and additional doctors to make sure both babies are delivered safely and monitored closely.
There might be a dedicated nurse for each twin, and if your babies are born prematurely or need special care, a neonatal team will be standing by. This can feel a bit overwhelming, but remember that each person on your team has an important role to play in ensuring a smooth delivery for you and your babies.
It’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider ahead of time to understand who will be in the room and what their roles are. Knowing who’s there to support you will help ease any concerns you might have on delivery day.
Before you go…
You’re so close to meeting your babies, mama! This final stretch is all about making sure you feel prepared, supported, and ready for whatever comes your way.
Trust in yourself and your birth team, and remember that no matter how your twins’ birth unfolds, you’ve got this!
The most important thing is bringing your beautiful babies into the world safely—and soon you’ll be holding them in your arms. You got this mama!
Take care and much love.
