Welcome to your comprehensive guide for pregnancy week by week! We’re here to provide you with all the essential information about what to anticipate throughout your pregnancy journey, including symptoms, your baby’s growth, and appointments. Let’s dive into what you need to know this week.
Your Body at Week 40 Pregnant
Almost Time!
At 40 weeks, labor could begin at any moment. While the third trimester has been an adventure, you’re likely eager to finally meet your little one. Contrary to popular belief, only about 15% of women experience their water breaking before labor starts. If it does happen, it’s referred to as premature rupture of membranes (PROM).
It can be tricky to determine whether your water has truly broken. Many women confuse a small leak with urine. When it does break, it often feels like a slow trickle or a sudden gush. The amniotic fluid is typically clear or pale yellow and odorless, which can help you distinguish it from urine. If you suspect your water has broken, make a note of the time and start monitoring your contractions.
Even if your water hasn’t broken, contractions will start. In early labor, these contractions may last for 30 to 60 seconds, with intervals of five to 20 minutes in between. As they increase in intensity—yes, that means painful—the duration extends to 45-60 seconds, and the breaks shorten to three to five minutes. This is active labor, signaling it’s time to head to the hospital!
Your Baby at Week 40 Pregnant
At this stage, your baby is roughly the size of a turducken, weighing between six to nine pounds and measuring 19 to 22 inches long. Don’t fret if they fall slightly outside this range—it’s quite normal.
The cramped quarters in your uterus mean your little one isn’t moving as much, likely only giving you about ten kicks or movements per hour as they prepare for their entrance. First-time moms might find that their little one arrives a bit later than expected, so hang in there!
Most of your baby’s bones have hardened, except for the skull, which remains soft and flexible to navigate the birth canal. If you have a vaginal delivery, your baby’s head may appear cone-shaped and slightly bruised at first, but they’ll be absolutely perfect in your eyes.
Your Symptoms and Health at Week 40 Pregnant
Cervical Changes
As you get closer to labor, your cervix begins to dilate and thin out—a process known as dilation and effacement. While you may not feel these changes, they are likely occurring at this stage and will continue into early and active labor.
Expect the Unexpected
No matter how meticulously you’ve planned, the birth may not unfold precisely as you envisioned. It’s essential to stay calm and adaptable if things take an unexpected turn. You’ve got this, Mama!
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Summary
As you reach the 40-week mark, your body is preparing for labor while your baby is ready to make their debut. Stay aware of any signs and changes, and remember that flexibility is key as you embark on this life-changing journey.