Pregnant in week 41
In week 41 your baby is still doing fine in there, gaining a little every day. Your midwife follows you closely now, and a membrane sweep may be offered to help labour along.
Your baby in week 41
Your baby measures around 51.5 centimetres and weighs about 3,550 grams. It is fully developed and doing fine, even though the due date has passed – it still gains a little every day.
The nails may now reach beyond the fingertips, and the skin is smooth, as most of the vernix is gone. Your baby lies well down in the pelvis and is completely ready for birth.
Your baby still makes movements, which you should be able to feel. The placenta continues to function but is now monitored more closely to ensure your baby gets enough oxygen and nourishment.
Your body and symptoms in week 41
You have gone past your due date, and it can feel long. Your midwife now follows you more closely with check-ups and possibly a scan to ensure all is still well.
Your body is still preparing for birth: the cervix ripens, and practice contractions can come close together. Many experience strong downward pressure, pelvic pain and great impatience.
Around now a membrane sweep is offered – a simple examination that can help labour start. If labour doesn't begin naturally, induction is typically planned around weeks 41-42.
Good advice for week 41
Attend the closer check-ups
After your due date you are seen more often, and your baby's wellbeing is checked extra. Attend all appointments – it is to ensure everything is as it should be.
Ask about a membrane sweep
A membrane sweep may be offered to help labour start. Your midwife explains what it involves, so you can decide together.
Watch movements carefully
After your due date it is extra important to feel your baby's movements. With clearly fewer or weaker movements, contact the maternity unit immediately.
Keep your spirits up
The last days past your due date can be the hardest to wait out. You are almost there – try to rest, distract yourself and take it easy.
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 41
This is what we can offer you at this point in your pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions in week 41
What is a membrane sweep?
The midwife inserts a finger into the cervix and gently separates the membranes from the uterine wall. It can start labour in some and is a simple, gentle method.
Is it dangerous to go past my due date?
Most post-term pregnancies go fine, but the placenta is monitored more closely after your due date. That is why extra check-ups and induction are typically offered around weeks 41-42.
When is labour induced?
Induction is typically offered between weeks 41 and 42, depending on your region's guidelines and your situation. Your midwife and doctor plan it together with you.
Your pregnancy – week by week, in your inbox
Every time you enter a new week we send you what is happening with your baby and your body, good advice for the week – and when the different scans make sense. Unsubscribe with one click.
Read on in week 41
The hospital bag – what to pack, and when?
How do you prepare for birth? – A guide for expectant mothers
