At Week 39, you are just days away from meeting your little one! Your body is now in full preparation
mode, and labor can start anytime. Stay calm, hydrated, and ready to rush to the hospital when labor
signs appear.
Congratulations! You’ve officially reached Week 40 of your pregnancy, and your baby is now full-term and
ready to arrive any moment! Your body has done an incredible job nurturing your little one, and now it’s
time to prepare for delivery. This week is all about waiting, monitoring signs of labor, and staying
calm. Your baby could arrive today, tomorrow, or within the next few days!
Mom’s Health Concerns
Weight gain: You may have gained 18-25 kg by now.
Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder.
Severe lower back pain or pelvic pain.
Shortness of breath may slightly improve since the
baby has dropped.
Loose stools or nausea – The body naturally prepares
for labor.
Water breaking – Labor is likely to begin within 24
hours after your water breaks.
Fatigue or exhaustion due to discomfort.
Leg cramps or swelling in feet, hands, and ankles.
Baby Activities
Your baby is about the size of a small pumpkin ,
measuring around 50-51 cm (20 inches) and weighing approximately 3.4-3.6 kg (7.5-8 lbs).
Lungs are completely mature – Baby is ready to
breathe air.
Immune system is strong – Baby is receiving
antibodies from you.
Brain is fully developed – Baby can now see, hear,
and recognize your voice.
Head is engaged in the pelvis, preparing for
delivery.
Skin is soft and smooth due to fat accumulation.
Bones are strong but the skull is still soft – This helps the baby pass through the
birth canal.
Baby’s fingernails and toenails have fully grown.
Baby's digestive system is ready, though the first
stool (meconium) will be passed after birth.
Symptoms
Strong and regular contractions – Your body is preparing for labor.
Increased pelvic pressure – The baby’s head is deeply engaged in the pelvis.
Water breaking – You may experience a sudden gush or
slow leak of amniotic fluid.
Mucus plug discharge – Thick, blood-tinged mucus may
come out (a sign of labor).
Severe back pain or menstrual-like cramps.
Frequent urination as the baby presses against your bladder.
Loose stools or diarrhea – Your body naturally
clears itself before labor.
Nausea or vomiting – Can happen before labor starts.
Decreased baby movements – Space is limited, but you
should still feel kicks.
Fatigue or energy bursts – Some moms feel extremely tired, while others feel super
energetic before labor.
Colostrum leakage (early breast milk).
Swelling in feet and hands (mild swelling is normal).
emotional changes
Excitement and anxiety about labor and delivery.
Impatience as you eagerly await your baby’s arrival.
Mood swings due to hormonal shifts.
Worry about labor pain or complications (which is absolutely normal).
A strong desire to hold your baby and start your new life as a mom.
When to Call the Doctor (Labor Signs)
Your water breaks (gush of fluid or slow leak).
Regular contractions every 5 minutes for 1 hour.
Heavy vaginal bleeding or abnormal discharge.
Severe back pain or unbearable cramps.
Baby’s movements stop or slow down.
Blurry vision, severe headaches, or dizziness.
Sudden swelling in hands, face, or feet.
Labor Pain Relief Options
Pain Relief Option
Description
Epidural (most common)
Numbs the lower body but keeps you awake.
IV Medication
Reduces pain but may cause drowsiness.
Breathing techniques
Helps control pain naturally
Warm water bath
Relaxes muscles and reduces pain.
What to Expect During Labor
Early Labor (6-12 hours):
Mild contractions (30-60 seconds every 10-20 minutes).
May experience water breaking or mucus plug discharge.
Active Labor (4-8 hours):
Contractions become stronger and more frequent (every 5 minutes).
You may feel pressure in the pelvis and severe back
pain.
Time to head to the hospital!
3.ransition Phase (30 mins - 2 hours):
Extremely intense contractions every 2-3 minutes.
You may feel like pushing.
Delivery is very close.
4.Pushing & Delivery:
You’ll feel the baby’s head crowning.
With a few strong pushes, your baby will be born!
Immediate skin-to-skin contact with your baby is encouraged
