Pregnant in week 40
Due week! In week 40 your baby is the size of a small pumpkin and completely ready to meet you – now you're just waiting for the starting signal. Only about 4% give birth on the due date itself; most within ±2 weeks.
Your baby in week 40
Your baby measures around 51 centimetres and weighs about 3,450 grams, though there is wide, normal variation. It is fully developed and ready for life outside the uterus.
All organs are ready to work on their own. Your baby lies well down in the pelvis, head-down, and the soft skull bones can mould so the head can pass through the birth canal.
Your baby keeps making small movements, which you should be able to feel right up to the birth. It still gathers a little fat and prepares for its first breath and first feed.
Your body and symptoms in week 40
It is due week, but very few give birth exactly on the date. It is completely normal to swing between anticipation and a touch of impatience – try to take it calmly, one day at a time.
Your body is preparing for birth: the cervix ripens, practice contractions can become strong, and many lose the mucus plug. The downward pressure is high, and sleep is often light.
Keep feeling your baby's movements daily – they should be there, even now. With clearly fewer movements, waters breaking or regular contractions, contact the maternity unit.
Good advice for week 40
Take it one day at a time
Your due date is an estimate. Most give birth in the days around it, so try to relax and let your body set the pace.
Know the signs of labour
Regular, increasing contractions, waters breaking or a bloody mucus plug mean labour has started. Call the maternity unit whenever you are in doubt.
Keep feeling for movements
Your baby should move right up to the birth. React immediately to clearly fewer or weaker movements.
Rest and keep your spirits up
The waiting can feel long. Sleep, watch something cosy, take a walk and do things that bring calm – soon you'll be three.
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 40
This is what we can offer you at this point in your pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions in week 40
Will labour be induced if it doesn't start?
If you go past your due date, you are followed more closely, and induction is typically offered around weeks 41-42. Your midwife and doctor will discuss what is best for your situation.
Why do so few give birth on the due date?
The due date is calculated from an average. Only about 4% give birth exactly on the date, while the vast majority give birth within two weeks before or after. That is completely normal.
Should I still feel kicks now?
Yes. Your baby should move right up to and during birth. A drop in movements should always be taken seriously – contact the maternity unit immediately.
Your pregnancy – week by week, in your inbox
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Read on in week 40
The hospital bag – what to pack, and when?
How do you prepare for birth? – A guide for expectant mothers
