Week 38 of Your Pregnancy: Care Instructions

Even if you expect a vaginal birth, it's a good idea to learn about cesarean section (C-section). C-section is the delivery of a baby through a cut (incision) in your belly. It's a major surgery, so it has more risks than a vaginal birth.

During the first 2 weeks after the birth, limit visitors. Don't allow visitors who have colds or infections. Ask visitors to wash their hands before they touch your baby. And never let anyone smoke around your baby.

Know about unplanned C-sections. Reasons for an unplanned C-section include labor that slows or stops, signs of distress in your baby, and high blood pressure or other problems for you.

Know about planned C-sections. If your baby isn't in a head-down position for delivery (breech position), your doctor may plan a C-section. Or you may have a planned C-section if you're having twins or more.

Get as much help as you can while you're in the hospital. You can learn about feeding, diapering, and bathing your baby.

Talk to your doctor or midwife about how to care for the umbilical cord stump. If your baby will be circumcised, also ask about how to care for that.

Ask friends or family for help, as you need it. If you can, have another adult in your home for at least 2 or 3 days after the birth.

Try to nap when your baby naps. This may be your best chance to get some sleep.

Watch for changes in your mental health. For the first 1 to 2 weeks after birth, it's common to cry or feel sad or irritable. If these feelings last for more than 2 weeks, you may have postpartum depression. Ask your doctor for help. Postpartum depression can be treated.