Pregnancy Calendar at Week 40

Hi there, little mama!

I’m already a fully grown adult and totally ready to meet you! Think of me like a cozy hoodie — big, comfy, and super snug. My organs and systems are fully developed, and I’m living proof that I can thrive independently in your lively world.

My size now ranges between 48 and 58 centimeters, and I weigh between 3 and 4 kilograms. My nervous system works great — I can coordinate my movements and even react to the world around me. My heartbeat is steady and strong — around 140 to 160 beats per minute — so I can keep up in tone.

Inside me, there’s already the first “rescue” food — meconium, which forms in the tummy, and I know how to properly process it. So don’t worry, I’m already prepared for real life!

I feel a little more cramped in my little life now, so I move a bit less, but my movements are sharper and more conscious. My little bones haven’t fully grown yet — that’s super important so I can appear more easily in the world.

I’m really looking forward to the moment we finally meet and get to hug each other. Thank you for carrying me with love and care.

Soon, we’ll be together!

Your little one 💆‍🩵

What happens to me

Sensations

When pregnancy reaches 40 weeks, in about 90% of cases, this means that a woman is going into labor for the first time. Especially during the first pregnancy and when the mother is calm, labor usually starts around this time or a little later. Repeat pregnancies tend to happen sooner, often around the 37–38 week mark. During this period, signals like these can indicate that labor is approaching for the family.

Shifts, or an "irritable" approach

Softening of the pelvic bones and increased uterine mass with the baby shifting the center of gravity, triggering a stretch of the lower back and the rearrangement of how the baby sits. After labor, everything generally returns to normal.

Maximum life expectancy

A full stomach makes it difficult to carry out many actions – standing up, working in a bent position, and even resting comfortably. The rest is quite minimal, and after the baby is born, recovery happens very quickly.

Swelling in legs

Swelling in the legs can be a sign that the placenta is overloading the kidney function and excess weight can cause ankle swelling. These symptoms can also signal a preeclampsia or other serious conditions that require urgent medical attention and hospitalization.

Medical examination

At 40 weeks pregnant, routine visits to the women's clinic include necessary examinations. Additional tests and investigations will be scheduled based on medical advice. If the woman hasn’t gone into labor by then, a minimal set of examinations will be conducted to monitor the pregnancy. Doctors will assess the condition of the cervix, the baby's position, and the overall health of the mother and fetus.

Doctors

Obstetric-ginecologist: evaluates the maturity of the birth canal, overall pregnancy condition, fetal activity, and well-being.
Terapevt: a specialist in extracranial pathology of the placenta, examines the woman for placental diseases, unrelated to pregnancy, and assesses whether hospitalization is necessary.
Biochemist: conducts tests related to pregnancy, such as hormone levels and other biochemical markers.

Examinations

Electrocardiogram (EKG) for the mother, especially if she has hypertension or preeclampsia.
Fetal ultrasound (UZU) to assess placental location and the baby's condition.

Discomfort in the pelvis

Pelvic discomfort can indicate the approaching labor and this is often seen as a release from the narrow pelvic channels. It helps the woman correctly enter the active phase of labor.

What a future mother can do:

Choose moderate activity to avoid sudden movements and strain; lift weights no more than 3 kg and avoid intense sports;
Eat only prescribed medications as directed by the doctor;
Take medications without additional medical approval;

Preludes to labor

Some signs of labor can be noticed by the woman herself, while others require a doctor's assessment during a prenatal visit. If the woman hasn’t experienced these symptoms yet, it’s advisable to do a minimum of checks to monitor the pregnancy's progress. Additional exams and tests will be prescribed based on medical guidance.

Engorged cervix

Cervical engorgement indicates that labor is near and is characterized by the thickening of the mucus plug, which is a sign of the body's readiness for labor. It’s recommended to avoid frequent trips to the hospital during this time to prevent unnecessary concern, as labor can start at any moment.

Risks

Some signs of approaching labor may also indicate the woman’s own risk of complications. It is generally recommended to monitor for signs of labor, as the gestational period can vary and may be longer or shorter than the expected 40 weeks, depending on individual hormonal and physiological factors. It is important to stay prepared and seek medical advice promptly when necessary.

Amniotic fluid leakage

Leakage of amniotic fluid signals that labor is likely to start soon. It indicates a rupture of the membranes and requires immediate medical evaluation.

Helpful Tips

Being pregnant is new and exciting, but it can also be overwhelming at times. You're going to have a lot of new caring and joyful moments with your little one. Try to stay calm and relaxed as much as possible, get plenty of rest, and follow your doctor's advice for a smooth pregnancy journey.

It's best for moms to receive care at a medical facility under the supervision of experienced specialists. If your doctor recommends prenatal hospitalization, make sure to listen carefully to their advice and follow all their instructions.

Births

When irregular contractions become more rhythmic and persistent, it indicates the beginning of labor. A future mother will be assisted in pre-delivery by a doctor and a midwife. It is important to listen carefully to their recommendations:

During the interval between contractions, deep breathing helps supply oxygen to the mother and baby, and the baby.
Motor activity during contractions helps distract from anxiety and stimulates labor activity.
To maintain energy, it is permissible to eat something sweet or drink tea with honey.
In the pre-delivery ward, there will be an examination and a vaginal rupture of the membranes, which can take varying amounts of time, especially during the first births.
When the membranes are sufficiently torn, contractions become more prolonged, and calls to the midwife may appear for defecation.
At this moment, the woman is transferred to the delivery room for the completion of labor.
During the baby's progression through the birth canal, it is important to listen carefully and follow the commands of the medics for optimal delivery and avoid tears.

What should you do if you notice unpleasant discharge around 40 weeks?

When your cervix begins to open, you'll see a thick, mucus-like plug with a touch of blood. This is your body showing that labor is approaching. However, if the discharge has a foul smell, it could be a sign of an infection that might affect your baby. In that case, be sure to inform your doctor about what you're experiencing.

What is a late pregnancy and how does it differ from regular pregnancy?

If pregnancy lasts longer than 42 weeks, it's called a post-term pregnancy. This can increase the risks of stillbirth and major complications for both the baby and mother. Usually, doctors recommend planning a cesarean section around 40 weeks to avoid infections or other issues caused by the pregnancy going too far past the due date.

How long does the baby’s arrival typically take at 40 weeks?

Studies show that about 60 out of 100 babies are born naturally within their due date or just before. The duration of labor always counts as 40 weeks. Usually, at 40 weeks, your baby should move around quite a bit, though the total number of movements can vary.

Why does my cervix close up at 40 weeks?

It's not unusual for the cervix to stay closed as the due date approaches, even as your body prepares for labor. Changing the cervix close to delivery can be more of a concern if it's very stiff or hard. These contractions can happen throughout pregnancy but tend to become more frequent and intense as labor approaches. If you have any worries, consult your healthcare provider.

How many contractions should I feel at 40 weeks?

According to experts, pregnant women should experience at least 10 contractions within a two-hour window, especially starting around 28 weeks. By 40 weeks, your baby should be moving quite often, although the number of movements can vary.

Why is my life so intense at 40 weeks of pregnancy?

At 40 weeks, your baby might drop into your pelvis, pressing your head against your cervix. This can make your pregnancy feel more rigid or tough. Other possible causes of discomfort may include Braxton-Hicks contractions. These can occur throughout pregnancy but tend to become more frequent and stronger as labor gets closer. Keep your doctor informed about any changes or symptoms.

How much movement should I feel at 40 weeks?

In general, pregnant women are advised to feel at least 10 movements in a two-hour period, especially starting around 28 weeks. By 40 weeks, your baby should be moving quite regularly, though the exact number can vary.

Why does my cervix stay closed at 40 weeks?

It's not uncommon for the cervix to remain closed as the due date approaches, especially as your body prepares for labor. The cervix's position can help boost blood flow to the baby and make labor easier. However, if it's very stiff or hard, this can sometimes delay the process. In some cases, a doctor might suggest a gentle induction or other measures to help things along.

How much sleep should I get at 40 weeks?

Based on research, pregnant women tend to sleep about 90-95% of the time in deep sleep stages between weeks 38 and 40. The duration of pregnancy is always counted as 40 weeks, and the expected delivery date is based on the last menstrual period.

How long does it take to deliver at 40 weeks?

The duration of labor can vary widely; some women may start labor several hours or even days before their due date. In general, the first stage of labor can last from a few hours to over a day. Stay in contact with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Why is my cervix closed at 40 weeks?

It's quite common for the cervix to remain closed as the due date nears. Sometimes, the cervix will soften and thin out closer to labor. A stiff or closed cervix late in pregnancy might delay labor, but that can change in the days or hours right before giving birth. Your doctor will monitor your progress and decide if further measures are needed to help induce labor when the time comes.

CHECKLIST

This week, I managed to get some much-needed rest. I really look forward to more work coming my way!
Lately, I've been spending more time in the bathroom, and I've been having some digestion issues. It's not very pleasant, but maybe it means my body is cleaning out my digestive system to prepare for the baby!
My partner and I have been trying to have sex every night, pushing ourselves to get pregnant. It’s not as cozy as it used to be, especially after we got pregnant! But honestly, I think it’s good that we’re actively trying now that the baby is almost here. It’ll probably take about six weeks to get the house ready once he’s born.
We had a romantic night just before I went into labor with the baby. I also took some special time to relax with each of my older children.
I now know how to recognize the early signs of labor: when contractions start to become regular, strong, and happen at least every 15 minutes. The most important thing is that I understand when it’s labor — when my water breaks, or I feel regular contractions, or I’m in the bathroom or resting, and the contractions don’t stop or slow down, it’s time to head to the hospital!

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