40 Weeks Pregnant

Your baby at 40 weeks

Your due date is here, and your baby is fully developed and ready to be born, though it is completely normal to arrive a little before or after this date. They continue to receive protective antibodies from you and are simply waiting for labor to begin. The skull bones stay soft and able to overlap slightly, which helps your baby pass through the birth canal.

Your body this week

You may feel very ready and uncomfortable, with strong pelvic pressure, swelling, and contractions that may be building toward active labor. Signs that labor is near include regular strengthening contractions, your water breaking, and increased bloody show. Mixed emotions of excitement, impatience, and nerves are all normal as you reach the finish line.

Tips for week 40

Stay in close contact with your provider and follow their guidance on when to head in, especially once contractions become regular or your water breaks. If your due date passes, your provider will discuss monitoring and options, so keep your scheduled appointments. Continue tracking your baby's movements and call right away with any decrease, bleeding, or concerns; you are almost there, and support is close at hand.