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40

Weeks

baby size

In the week 40, your baby is
the size of a Pumpkin

Week 40 of Pregnancy

Your baby is ready to meet the world! As you near the finish line, prepare for the big day with final body changes, signs of labor, and essential tips.

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All you need to know

Congrats! You've made it to the final stretch of your pregnancy journey! At 40 weeks, your baby is fully developed and ready to enter the world. While you eagerly await their arrival, your body is undergoing some significant changes to prepare for labour and delivery.

During this week, you may experience increased pelvic pressure as your baby descends further into your pelvis. You might also notice more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions, which are your body's way of practising for the big day. It's essential to stay in tune with your body and watch for signs of labour, such as regular contractions or water breaking.

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On this page

Week 40 of Pregnancy

All you need to know

Week 40 Pregnancy Symptoms

Your Baby in Week 40

Your Body in Week 40 of Pregnancy

Medical Scans and Check-Ups

Week 40 of Pregnancy

All you need to know

Week 40 Pregnancy Symptoms

Your Baby in Week 40

Your Body in Week 40 of Pregnancy

Medical Scans and Check-Ups

On this page

Week 40 of Pregnancy

Week 40 Pregnancy Symptoms

As you enter the 40th week of pregnancy, you may experience various symptoms that indicate your body is preparing for labour. Some common symptoms include:

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  • Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions may become more frequent and intense as your body gears up for the real thing.
  • Pelvic pressure: As your baby descends further into your pelvis, you may feel increased pressure and discomfort in your pelvic area.
  • Frequent urination: With your baby's head pressing against your bladder, you may find yourself making more trips to the bathroom.
  • Mucus plug discharge: You may notice a thick, clear, or slightly bloody discharge, which is a sign that your cervix is beginning to dilate.

Your Baby in Week 40

At 40 weeks, your baby is fully developed and ready for life outside the womb. Here's what you can expect:

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Baby’s Growth in the Womb

  • Organ Development: By now, all of your baby's organs are fully formed and functional. Their lungs are mature and ready to take their first breath, while their digestive system is prepared to handle breast milk or formula.
  • Physical Features: Your baby's physical features are well-defined, with a head full of hair, fingernails that extend past their fingertips, and toenails that have reached the end of their toes. They can blink, turn their head, and grasp with their hands.
  • Weight of the Foetus: The average baby at 40 weeks weighs between 3.2 and 3.6 kg and measures about 50 cm in length. However, healthy babies can vary in size, with some weighing more or less than this average.
  • Movement of the Baby: As your baby runs out of room in your uterus, you may notice a decrease in their movements. However, you should still feel them move regularly throughout the day. If you notice a significant decrease in movement or haven't felt your baby move for an extended period, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Here is what your baby looks like

Month 6

<p>Month 6</p>

Your baby is about the size of a Corn on the cob.

Month 7

<p>Month 7</p>

Your baby is about the size of an Egg plant

Month 8

<p>Month 8</p>

Your baby is about the size of a Romaine lettuce

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At 40 weeks, trust your strength and love. Your body is amazing, and you're ready to meet the precious life you've nurtured so beautifully!

Dr. Veena H

Your Body in Week 40 of Pregnancy

Your body has undergone incredible changes throughout your pregnancy, and at 40 weeks, it's fully prepared for labour and delivery. Here's what you might experience:

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Physiological Changes During Week 40 of Pregnancy

  • Breast Changes: Your breasts may feel even fuller and heavier as they prepare for breastfeeding. You might notice colostrum, a yellowish fluid, leaking from your nipples.
  • Hair, Skin, and Nails: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause your hair to appear thicker and more lustrous. However, some women experience hair loss postpartum as hormone levels return to normal. Your skin may feel stretched and itchy, especially around your belly, as it accommodates your growing baby.
  • Respiratory and Cardiovascular System: As your baby moves further down into your pelvis, you may find it easier to breathe. However, you might experience shortness of breath or difficulty catching your breath due to the increased pressure on your diaphragm.
  • Vaginal Discharge: You may notice an increase in vaginal discharge, which can be clear, white, or slightly bloody. This is normal as your body prepares for labour. If you experience a sudden gush of fluid, it could be a sign that your water has broken, and you should contact your healthcare provider.
  • Uterus Size and Position: Your uterus has expanded to accommodate your full-term baby, reaching up to your rib cage. As your baby descends into your pelvis, you may feel increased pressure and discomfort in your lower abdomen and pelvis.
  • Placenta Position: The placenta continues to provide your baby with nutrients and oxygen until delivery. After your baby is born, the placenta will detach from the uterine wall and be delivered after birth.
     

TopTips for Week 40

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Early arrival 

Discuss premature labour signs with the doctor to address concerns and get proper guidance. 

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Eat Healthy

Make sure to add variety in your meals to get energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals

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Preterm signs

If you suspect early labour, read up on premature delivery and baby care essentials.

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Prenatal guide

Attend all your prenatal appointments like vaccinations, tests, ultrasounds
to track vitals 

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Dental hygiene

Having healthy teeth and gums matters as poor dental care is linked to premature labour.

Medical Scans and Check-Ups

At 40 weeks, your healthcare provider will closely monitor you and your baby to ensure a safe and healthy delivery. This may include:

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  • Non-stress Tests (NST)

    This test monitors your baby's heart rate in response to their movements, helping to assess their overall health and oxygen supply.

  • Biophysical Profile (BPP)

    A combination of an ultrasound and an NST, this test evaluates your baby's breathing, movement, muscle tone, and amniotic fluid level.

  • Cervical Exams

    Your doctor or midwife will check your cervix for signs of dilation and effacement, which indicate progress towards labour.

  • Group B Streptococcus (GBS) Screening

    If not done earlier, a vaginal and rectal swab will be performed to check for the presence of GBS bacteria, which can be harmful to your baby during delivery.

  • Ultrasounds

    If there are any concerns about your baby's growth or position, additional ultrasounds may be performed.

FAQs

Is it normal to feel anxious about labour and delivery?

Yes, it's completely normal to feel anxious or nervous about labour and delivery, especially if this is your first pregnancy. Talk to your healthcare provider or consider attending a childbirth education class to help ease your concerns and prepare for the big day.

What should I do if I think I'm in labour?

If you experience regular contractions that become progressively stronger and closer together, your water breaks, or you have a bloody show, contact your healthcare provider. They will provide guidance on when to go to the hospital or birthing centre.

How long does labour typically last?

The duration of labour varies for each woman and pregnancy. First-time mothers often experience longer labour, with an average duration of 12 to 18 hours. Subsequent labour may be shorter, averaging around 8 to 12 hours.

What can I do to cope with labour pain?

There are various techniques you can use to manage labour pain, including: Breathing exercises and relaxation techniques Changing positions or walking around Using a birthing ball or taking a warm shower Receiving support and encouragement from your partner or a doula Considering pain relief options, such as epidural anaesthesia or nitrous oxide

What happens if I go past my due date?

If you go past your due date, your healthcare provider will closely monitor you and your baby. They may recommend non-stress tests or biophysical profiles to ensure your baby's well-being. If necessary, they may discuss the option of inducing labour to reduce the risk of complications.

How long will I stay in the hospital after delivery?

The length of your hospital stay will depend on your type of delivery and any complications that may arise. For a vaginal delivery without complications, you can typically expect to stay in the hospital for 24 to 48 hours. If you have a cesarean delivery, your stay may be extended to 2 to 4 days.

When should I call my healthcare provider after delivery?

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms after delivery: Heavy bleeding or passing large clots Severe abdominal pain or cramping Fever or chills Redness, swelling, or discharge from your incision (for cesarean deliveries) Severe headaches or vision changes Difficulty breathing or chest pain

How soon can I start breastfeeding after delivery?

You can start breastfeeding as soon as possible after delivery, ideally within the first hour. Skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding can help promote bonding and establish a good milk supply. Your healthcare provider and lactation consultant will be available to provide support and guidance as you begin your breastfeeding journey.