40 Weeks Pregnant Finish Line Confidence Labor Timeline Last Minute Prep Tips
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Week 40 of Pregnancy
Your triumphant guide as you await your baby’s grand entrance
Hello, Tenacious Mama You’ve Reached the Finish Line!
At 40 weeks, you’re still in month nine, even if it feels like forever. Your baby is fully developed and could arrive any day. About one in three pregnancies go past 41 weeks, so you’re in excellent company as you await labor signs.
Your Baby at Week 40
Size and Growth
Your baby averages 6–9 pounds and measures 19–22 inches. Variations are normal healthy babies come in many sizes.
Final Preparations
Organs, reflexes, and immunity are ready.
The placenta continues supplying antibodies until birth.
Colostrum is on standby to boost baby’s immunity postpartum.
Meeting Your Baby
Expect curly, flexed limbs at birth. Your newborn’s vision is blurry she’ll recognize your voice first. Swaddling mimics the womb’s tight quarters and can soothe your little one.
Your Body at Week 40
Labor Timeline
Due dates are estimates. Only 15% of women have membranes rupture before labor; most labor begins with contractions. If your water breaks first, labor usually follows within 24 hours.
Membrane Rupture Signs
Amniotic fluid is clear and odorless. A continuous leak unaffected by Kegels signals your water has broken. Call your provider if fluid is green or brown (meconium).
Contraction Phases
First phase: Irregular, easing with movement.
Second phase: Contractions intensify and shorten intervals time to head to your birth setting.
Tips for You This Week
Discuss Induction Options: Understand when and why you might be induced (often by 41 weeks) and risks/benefits with your provider.
Backup Home-Birth Plan: If you planned a home birth, clarify transfer criteria to a hospital if induction or complications arise.
Safe Shaving Tips: Use a well worn razor, shave seated with protective gel, and avoid standing in slippery showers.
Explore Hydrotherapy: Warm baths or showers can ease early contractions; avoid water birth for safety once pushing begins.
Mini Workouts: Do side to side twists and 15–20 butt clenches to pass time, boost circulation, and tone muscles.
Labor Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with labor phases, breathing exercises, and hospital routines (IV fluids, fetal monitoring, epidural positioning).
Prioritize Relaxation: Rest or distract yourself until active labor save strength for pushing. A short walk or light chores can help contractions start.
Stay Connected: Keep your phone and birth support within reach, and communicate needs clearly to your coach or partner.