Welcome to your pregnancy journey! As you enter week 39, it’s time to prepare for the arrival of your little one. Here’s what to expect during this exciting time, from your changing body to the development of your baby.
Your Body at Week 39 of Pregnancy
Congratulations, you’ve reached full term! Your due date is just around the corner, and the anticipation is palpable. If you grab a carton of milk, the expiration date might just be past your due date—an exhilarating thought for some, but maybe a bit nerve-wracking for others. All these emotions are completely normal!
At this stage, you’re officially considered full term, which means your baby could arrive at any moment. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists updated the definition of “full term” in 2013 to include pregnancies that are between 39 weeks and 40 weeks and 6 days. So, congratulations mama, you’re right on track! If you were having twins, you’d already be holding both of them.
Your Growing Baby
If you’re not in labor just yet, your baby is still gaining weight—roughly half a pound per week during the last month of pregnancy. That means your little one is likely adding up to a full pound of baby weight in just two weeks! Although movements may feel less dramatic due to the limited space, your baby is still stretching and wriggling, which can sometimes lead to discomfort.
At this point, your baby is fully developed. Lungs are functioning well, and all major systems are ready for life outside the womb. Expect your baby to measure somewhere between 18 and 20.5 inches in length, weighing in anywhere from 6.5 to 8 pounds—about the size of a party sub!
Common Symptoms at Week 39
Ah, the joys of pregnancy! With the added pressure from your growing baby, some women experience hemorrhoids due to swollen blood vessels in the rectal area. This annoying condition can be exacerbated by the hormones surging through your body and a slowed digestive system. Staying hydrated, consuming fiber-rich foods, and moving around can help alleviate some discomfort. Remember, walking can even help bring your baby lower in your cervix, possibly kickstarting labor.
As labor approaches, you may start to feel contractions. It’s crucial to differentiate between real labor contractions and those pesky practice contractions. Real contractions come at regular intervals, intensify in strength, and continue despite changing positions. In contrast, false labor contractions are often irregular and may fade away. If you’re unsure about what you’re experiencing, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
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Summary
At week 39 of your pregnancy, you’re in the home stretch! Your baby is fully developed and ready to make their debut, and you may be feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. It’s normal to experience various symptoms as your body prepares for labor, so stay informed and reach out to your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns.