40 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby is officially full-term and ready to meet the world! About the size of a small pumpkin, they have shed most of their lanugo and vernix. Their lungs are mature and ready for their first breath, and their liver has stored enough starch to turn into glucose after birth. They are likely nestled deep in your pelvis, waiting for the signal that it's time to begin their journey.
Baby's Development This Week
Your baby is officially full-term and ready to meet the world! About the size of a small pumpkin, they have shed most of their lanugo and vernix. Their lungs are mature and ready for their first breath, and their liver has stored enough starch to turn into glucose after birth. They are likely nestled deep in your pelvis, waiting for the signal that it's time to begin their journey.
- The baby is fully developed and ready for life outside the womb.
- Lungs are producing enough surfactant for independent breathing.
- The skull bones are soft and can mold for passage through the birth canal.
- The baby has accumulated enough fat for temperature regulation.
- Antibodies from the placenta provide initial immune protection.
- About 51.2cm and 3.4kg — the size of a small pumpkin.
Your Symptoms at Week 40
The anticipation is at an all-time high this week. You're likely feeling very heavy and ready to be done, with symptoms like pelvic pressure and frequent 'lightening' as the baby drops lower. Remember that only about 5% of babies arrive on their actual due date, so don't be discouraged if you go a few days past 40 weeks—your baby is just getting those final, finishing touches!
Labor could begin any moment — rest and stay close to your hospital. (severe)
Time contractions; review when to go to the hospital. (severe)
Your provider checks at appointments; some dilation is normal. (moderate)
Rest, distract yourself with activities, and trust the process. (severe)
Your body's way of clearing out before labor — stay hydrated. (mild)
When to Call Your Doctor
- Contractions following the 5-1-1 or 4-1-1 rule
- Water breaking
- Decreased fetal movement
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Feeling intense pressure or urge to push
Week 40 Checklist
- ✓Attend your weekly prenatal visit (essential)
- ✓Discuss induction timeline if you go past your due date (essential)
- ✓Stay within a reasonable distance of your hospital (essential)
- ✓Continue kick counts (essential)
- ✓Try to stay calm and patient — your baby will come (recommended)