Your growing baby
Your baby is now approximately the weight of a small pumpkin 3.5kg and measures 51.2cm (head to heel).
At 40 weeks pregnant it’s hard to say for sure how big your baby will be, but the average newborn weighs about 3.5kg and is over 51cm long.
At this point, most of your baby’s vernix is gone, 15 percent of the body is fat and your baby is fully formed and beautiful.
It is worth remembering that only 5% of babies arrive on their due date and that it’s perfectly normal to give birth two weeks either side of this. Being one or two weeks overdue is not considered a cause for concern providing you and your baby are well.
Pregnancy week 40 – What’s happening to you
Your uterus is taking up all the space in your pelvis and a lot of room in your abdomen so you will be feeling pretty uncomfortable. It is normal to feel impatient after months of anticipation, if your due date comes and goes and you are still pregnant.
You may be experiencing pre-labour and early labour symptoms, such as pre-labour contractions, which are often short and irregular, but stronger than Braxton Hicks contractions. Other symptoms include persistent lower backache, a ‘show’ which is when the mucus plug that sealed the cervix comes away, or your waters may break. All these are signs that labour may not be far away.
First labours usually last between 12 and 16 hours so it’s best not to go to the maternity ward or birthing centre too soon. As a general rule, your contractions should be coming five to ten minutes apart and lasting at least 45 seconds. You should call the contact number you’ve been given for your midwife who will tell you what to do.
Need to know
Things for you to consider during week 40 of your pregnancy:
- Keep the hospital/midwife numbers in your phone.
- Call the midwife or hospital immediately if you notice a decrease in baby’s movements or a change in the pattern.
- Call the midwife or hospital if you feel unwell or have any concerns.
- If your baby is late you may want to consider having a membrane sweep.
- If you are more than 41 weeks pregnant, induction may be suggested. Make sure you ask your midwife or doctor to explain the procedures so you know what to expect.
- Keep positive and continue to keep physically active by going out for walks every day.