Week 39 of Pregnancy
Third trimester
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
Baby is
about the size of a small watermelon
19-20 inches · 7-7.5 lbs
Baby this week
- •Fully developed lungs ready for breathing outside the womb
- •Vernix caseosa (protective coating) is shedding as baby prepares for birth
- •Most babies are in head-down position; brain development continues through delivery and beyond
You this week
- •Intense Braxton-Hicks contractions that may feel like the real thing
- •Increased pelvic pressure and lower back discomfort
- •Possible bloody show or mucus plug loss
- •Fatigue mixed with restlessness (nesting instinct and anticipation)
- •Difficulty sleeping despite exhaustion
This week's tips
- •Learn to distinguish between Braxton-Hicks and true labor contractions—call your provider if you're unsure or experiencing vaginal bleeding
- •Stay mobile: walking, position changes, and gentle movement can help with discomfort and encourage baby into optimal position
- •Rest when you can, but don't stress if sleep feels impossible—this restlessness is normal as your body prepares for labor
- •Keep your hospital bag in the car and have your provider's after-hours contact readily available
- •Focus on staying hydrated and eating nourishing foods to maintain energy reserves
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
Labor could begin any day now. Every pregnancy is different—some babies come early, others come late. This week is about staying alert to your body's signals while trusting that your body and baby know what they're doing.
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For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
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