Pregnancy nutrition guide

Pregnancy nutrition for weeks 37–40

Full-term begins around 37 weeks. At this point, it's mostly about final maturation and steady nourishment.

Full term: finishing touches

What is developing

Baby is considered full-term around 37 weeks and ready to be born in the coming weeks.
Lanugo is mostly gone by around 40 weeks for many babies.
The baby continues to prepare for birth and life outside the womb.

These food ideas support general nutrition planning. They are not medical advice and do not replace prenatal vitamins or clinician guidance.

High priority

Protein supports steady nourishment and maternal recovery needs.

Protein supports tissue maintenance and repair during pregnancy.

High priority

Iron supports red blood cells and helps prevent anemia late pregnancy.

Iron needs remain elevated in pregnancy and deficiency is common.

Medium priority

Calcium supports bones and teeth as growth completes.

Calcium is essential for skeletal structure.

Supporting priority

Vitamin D supports calcium use and bone health.

Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption.