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.
