Pregnant in week 39
In week 39 your baby is the size of a watermelon. The brain is still growing at rocket speed – and it continues after birth. Enjoy the last calm days; a reassurance scan can give peace of mind if you are in doubt about anything.
Your baby in week 39
Your baby measures around 51 centimetres and weighs about 3,300 grams. It is fully developed and just adds the last grams of fat that give it the round, newborn body.
The brain continues to grow quickly and forms countless new connections – development that continues long after birth. Your baby's grip is strong, and all senses are ready to meet the world.
The vernix is almost gone, and the skin is smooth. Your baby lies well down in the pelvis, head-down, simply waiting for the starting signal for birth.
Your body and symptoms in week 39
You are now very close to term, and any day could be the day. It is normal to feel heavy, impatient and a little tense – try to keep your focus on calm and rest.
The downward pressure, pelvic pain and frequent urination continue. Many lose the mucus plug and experience stronger practice contractions as the cervix begins to ripen.
Keep feeling your baby's movements daily. If you feel anxious – about fewer movements or anything else – contact the maternity unit. A reassurance scan with us can also give peace of mind.
Good advice for week 39
Enjoy the last calm days
Soon everything will be turned upside down in the loveliest way. Use the waiting time for calm, sleep and small pleasures while it is still just the two of you.
Feel the movements
Your baby should move right up to the birth. React immediately to clearly fewer or weaker movements – call the maternity unit.
Consider a reassurance scan
If you are in doubt about anything in the final days, a reassurance scan can confirm all is well and give peace of mind before birth.
Keep gently moving
Calm walks can do you good and help your baby settle into the pelvis. Listen to your body, and rest when it asks for it.
Checklists for this stage
Tick things off as you go – the list remembers where you got to, and you can share it with your partner.
Relevant with us in week 39
This is what we can offer you at this point in your pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions in week 39
Can a walk bring on labour?
Movement can help your baby down into the pelvis, but there is no guarantee it will start labour. Birth begins when your baby and body are ready.
Is it a problem if I haven't lost the mucus plug?
No. Many never notice the mucus plug coming away, and it can come only during labour. It says nothing about when labour will start.
When am I overdue?
You are only considered overdue after your due date in week 40. From around week 41 you are followed more closely, and induction is typically offered around weeks 41-42.
Your pregnancy – week by week, in your inbox
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Read on in week 39
The hospital bag – what to pack, and when?
How do you prepare for birth? – A guide for expectant mothers
