In these final weeks your baby’s growth has slowed down, at least in length, although numerous neurons and brain connections continue developing. His lungs keep producing surfactant so they can expand when the baby takes his first breath once he is born.

His intestines have accumulated a good quantity of meconium, as a result of absorbing waste: cells and lanugo. The lanugo, the fine hair that covered his body, has disappeared almost completely, although some babies still might have some on their shoulders and back when they are born.

The hair, if he is born with any, may reach a surprising length. Some babies are born with an inch of hair or even more. The color might surprise you too, although chances are it will change as he grows.

Your baby weighs 7 pounds this week or a bit over 3 kilograms and measures over 19 inches or almost 50 centimeters.