You're sitting in the waiting room of your gynecologist, your belly round and heavy, with a hundred questions spinning in your mind: When exactly should I go to the hospital? What if things go faster than expected? What pain relief options are really available? At 37 weeks pregnant, you're officially in the home stretch—and now is the ideal moment to clarify all these questions. Being well-informed gives you the calm and confidence you need for the birth.

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Why Conversations are So Important Right Now

Starting from week 37, your baby is considered full-term—meaning birth could happen at any time. At the same time, you still have a small window to calmly discuss all details without contractions having already begun. Now you can ask questions, role-play scenarios, and express your wishes without rush.

Many women report feeling significantly more secure after a thorough pre-conversation. You’ll clearly understand what to expect, what options you have, and who will be with you. This clarity alleviates fears and gives you a sense of maintaining control—even when the birth itself is unpredictable.

Additionally, important examinations are coming up: blood tests, urine tests, and an ultrasound to determine the baby's position and assess its health. Use these appointments to clarify all open questions.

The 7 Essential Questions for Your Birth Attendant

To ensure you don’t forget anything, we’ve compiled the key discussion points for you. Feel free to write a list to take with you to your next appointment—nobody expects you to remember everything.

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1. When should I come to the hospital or birthing center?

Ask specifically about the signs that mean you should head out: How frequent should the contractions be? How strong? What about water breaking? Have them explain when you should stay home longer—this will give you the reassurance of not leaving too early and getting sent back home.

2. What pain relief options do I have?

Talk openly about epidurals, alternative pain relief methods, and non-medical options like breathing techniques, birthing pools, or acupuncture. Not every woman wants an epidural—and that's perfectly fine. What’s important is that you know what’s possible and what the pros and cons are.

  • Epidural: Administered at the spine, provides strong pain relief but limits mobility.
  • Nitrous oxide: Works quickly, keeps you mobile, but the effect is milder.
  • Water/heat: Relaxing, encourages labor progression, no side effects.
  • TENS device: Electrical impulses for pain relief, you maintain control.

3. What birthing positions are possible?

Many women don’t realize that they don’t have to lie on their backs. Ask about birthing stools, hands-and-knees position, side-lying, or upright positions. Your body will signal to you during labor what feels right—but it helps to know in advance what is allowed and possible.

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4. Who will be present at the birth?

Clarify whether your midwife or doctor will be attending the birth, or if shift changes are a possibility. Also ask about the roles of assistant doctors or midwifery students. The better you know who will be in the room, the fewer surprises you'll experience.

5. What happens if there are complications?

No one likes to think about it, but it’s important to discuss emergency scenarios as well: cesarean section, vacuum extraction, episiotomy. Ask under what circumstances these measures might be necessary and what the procedures are. This knowledge alleviates the fear of the unknown.

6. What will the first hour after birth look like?

Bonding, breastfeeding, examinations of the baby—how will this be organized? Can you have your baby placed on your chest right away? How long will your partner stay with you? This first hour is magical and formative—it’s nice to know what to expect.

7. What should I bring?

Ask for a concrete list: documents, clothing for you and the baby, personal items. Some hospitals provide a lot, while others less. That way, you can pack your bag purposefully and not forget anything important.

How to Prepare Mentally for the Conversation

It’s completely normal to feel nervous before the appointment or to be afraid of asking “dumb” questions. There are no dumb questions—only those that go unasked and may unsettle you later.

Write down your questions in advance. Bring your partner or a trusted person who can take notes or ask follow-up questions. Sometimes you forget half in the excitement. And if you think of something after the appointment: call or send an email. Your birth attendant is there for you.

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Meditation and breathing exercises can help you center yourself and reduce anxiety. Many thoughts are circulating in your mind right now—that's normal. Try to practice patience and allow yourself moments of calm. Focus entirely on yourself and your baby.

Practical Checklist: What You Should Still Accomplish

In addition to conversations with your birth attendant, there are a few practical things you should check off in week 37. This way, you’re fully prepared and can enjoy the final weeks.

  • Pack the hospital bag: For you and the baby, plus snacks and charger.
  • Write a birth plan: Outline your wishes in bullet points (not too rigid, but as guidance).
  • Complete baby gear: Changing station, clothing, car seat—everything ready?
  • Save emergency contacts: Hospital, midwife, birth attendant, partner—all numbers handy.
  • Plan the route: Route, parking, alternative plan in case of traffic or night travel.
  • Prepare the household: Batch cooking, laundry, shopping—so you’re alleviated after the birth.
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Common Questions and Uncertainties

Many women struggle with similar concerns at this stage. You're not alone with your thoughts—and most fears can be significantly reduced through information and conversations.

What if I don't recognize the contractions?

Real labor contractions are regular, become stronger and more frequent, and won’t stop with rest or a bath. Your body will give you clear signals—and in doubt, just call the clinic. No one will judge you for a false alarm.

What if I change my mind during labor?

That's completely okay. A birth plan is not a contract. If you initially didn’t want an epidural, but then need one—just say so. If you'd prefer to lie on your back—no problem. The birth is your experience, and you may express your needs at any time.

Do I have to make all decisions alone?

No. Your birth attendant, midwife, and partner are there to support you. You don’t need to know everything and plan everything. But the better informed you are, the more secure you will feel—and the better you can decide what feels right in the moment.

Consciously Enjoying the Last Weeks

As important as preparation is—don’t forget to enjoy this special time as well. Your belly is now round and full, your baby is moving energetically, and soon you’ll hold it in your arms. Take moments to consciously feel this connection.

Give yourself rest, talk about your feelings, and trust that your body knows what to do. Birth is one of the greatest challenges—but also one of the most powerful experiences of your life. You are ready. And with the right conversations and preparations, you step into this adventure empowered and informed.