Week 40 of Pregnancy
Third trimester
Baby is
about the size of a small watermelon or pumpkin
19-20 inches · 7-8 lbs
Baby this week
- •Fully developed and ready for life outside the womb
- •Vernix and lanugo mostly shed; skin is smoother
- •Fingernails and toenails are fully grown
- •Brain continues rapid development even after birth
You this week
- •Intense Braxton-Hicks contractions or early labor signs
- •Increased pelvic pressure and heaviness
- •Cervical changes (softening, effacement, dilation)
- •Unpredictable sleep due to discomfort and anticipation
- •Possible bloody show or mucus plug loss
- •Emotional intensity—excitement, anxiety, or impatience
This week's tips
- •Know the difference between false labor and real labor; call your provider if contractions are regular and intensifying
- •Stay mobile and upright when possible to encourage baby into optimal positioning
- •Rest when you can, even if sleep feels impossible—your body is preparing for labor
- •Keep your hospital/birth center bag easily accessible
- •Eat small, nutritious meals and stay hydrated; labor requires fuel
- •Have your support person(s) stay close and ready
- •Try relaxation techniques—breathing, music, warm baths—to manage discomfort
Looking ahead
You're at full term, and your baby could arrive any day. Labor can begin spontaneously, or your provider may discuss induction if you go past 40-41 weeks. Either way, you're on the threshold of meeting your baby.
Get next week's update delivered
We'll send you week 41's update — baby development, tips, and baby-friendly places to discover. Free, unsubscribe anytime.
More free tools
Looking for places to bring baby?
Explore BringBaby