Is the lung developing good at 37 weeks?

It takes a certain amount of time for a fertilized egg to develop into a complete fetus. During this time, the baby's organs and tissues are gradually formed. If the fetus leaves the mother's womb prematurely, the body organs are not fully developed, and it is likely not to survive.

So, is the lungs mature at 37 weeks?

At 38 weeks of pregnancy, the fetus's lungs are more mature. Generally, when the fetus grows to about 37 weeks of pregnancy, the shape of the lungs is fully equipped, and the function is relatively good. Most babies born at this time can breathe independently, even if the function of the lungs is slightly insufficient, they only need very little external assistance.

At about 38 weeks, the fetus's lung function is perfect, and it can basically cry and breathe spontaneously at this time.

Since the fetus is immersed in amniotic fluid while in the mother's body, the fetus will slowly synthesize surfactants during the third trimester of pregnancy in order to breathe air after birth. This substance is usually formed around 35 weeks of gestation, so babies born at 34 weeks and before usually need to be artificially injected with this substance.

Amniotic fluid also plays a great role in the production of such substances, so pregnant mothers should pay attention to the adequacy of amniotic fluid in the body during pregnancy. If there are problems such as oligohydramnios or premature rupture of membranes, they need to be actively treated, otherwise the impact on the baby's lung function is lifelong and irreversible.

It's already well developed.

Almost all babies born at 37 weeks can breathe on their own. Even infants who have difficulty breathing usually need only a minimum amount of assisted ventilation (such as supplemental oxygen).

Babies born between 30 and 34 weeks almost all require appropriate artificial support, which usually includes temporary use of a ventilator. The fetus lives in water until birth, and the cells in the alveoli (which are filled with amniotic fluid when in the womb) secrete surfactants in preparation for exposure to air. Surfactants are secreted by type 2 alveolar epidermal cells to overcome water tension.

Because water molecules tend to clump together, the alveoli in the lungs cannot open and allow air to enter due to the tension of the water. Surfactants can cause the alveolar walls to open.

At 35 weeks of age, babies already produce some surfactants, and this process can be accelerated by steroid hormones. Mothers can choose to inject or take steroids orally. In any case, babies born before 34 weeks need to be injected with synthetic surfactants immediately after birth.

Amniotic fluid flow is important for fetal lung development. Premature rupture of membranes before 24 weeks can cause hypoplasia of the baby's lungs, even if the baby is born one month later. This condition is fatal and cannot be ** once it happens.

There are also other causes, such as decreased amniotic fluid due to underdeveloped kidneys (Porter syndrome), which can also cause lung hypoplasia.

37 weeks is full-term, his lungs are fully developed, don't worry, your main task at the moment is to strengthen nutrition, pay attention to rest, adjust your energy and physical strength to the best state, and prepare for the challenges of childbirth. Obstetrics is dynamic and can change at any time, follow the doctor's advice and wish you a smooth delivery.