Pregnancy Week 40: What to Expect
Baby's development, your body's changes, common symptoms, what to eat, and what to do this week.
Baby's development at week 40
Baby is full-term. Brain continues to develop. Lungs are mature and ready to breathe air. Baby has fully developed organs, a strong grasp, mature reflexes, and a recognizable sleep/wake pattern. Baby is "ready." Most babies are born within 2 weeks of their due date — about 50% before, 50% after.
What's happening in your body
Your uterus is at peak height. Heavy pelvic pressure. Possible early labor signs. Possible mucus plug loss. Strong fetal movements still (baby should still be moving until birth). Possible mild diarrhea. Mood swings — anticipation, anxiety, sometimes relief that the wait is almost over.
Common symptoms at week 40
Pelvic pressure. Mood swings. Possible early labor signs (irregular contractions becoming regular, lower back pain, pelvic pressure). Possible loss of mucus plug. Possible mild diarrhea. Possible strong Braxton Hicks shifting to real contractions. Sleep very short.
When to call your provider
Active labor signs: contractions 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour, and intensifying — call provider. Water breaking (gush or trickle) — call provider. Bleeding (more than light show). Severe headache/vision changes. Decreased fetal movement.
How to feel better this week
Today is the typical due date. Most babies arrive within 2 weeks before or after. Walk, rest, eat well, hydrate. Try dates if you have not. Have the bag ready. Stay calm — overdue is normal and your provider will monitor closely. Continue Kegels and deep breathing.
Nutrition focus for week 40
Continue all nutrients. Hydrate. Eat dates. Iron, calcium, protein, healthy fats.
For your partner
Be on call. Stay close. Make sure work knows you may not be there tomorrow. Confirm childcare, pet care plans.
This week's to-do
Wait. Stay calm. Walk daily. Hydrate.
Is this normal?
Past the due date is normal. Providers usually allow 1-2 weeks past before discussing induction. Up to 42 weeks is generally considered safe with monitoring (non-stress tests, fluid checks).
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