Congratulations, you’ve reached the full-term milestone! Your due date is right around the corner, and the anticipation is real. If you take a look at the milk in your fridge, you might notice its expiration date is after your due date—an exciting yet nerve-wracking reminder that your little one could arrive at any moment. All of these emotions are completely normal!
At this stage of 39 weeks, you are officially full term, meaning it’s safe for you to deliver anytime now. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists updated the definition of “full term” in 2013 to include pregnancies that last from 39 weeks to 40 weeks and 6 days. If you were expecting twins, you’d already be snuggling with two tiny bundles of joy!
Your Body at Week 39
As your little one continues to grow, space is becoming increasingly limited. If labor hasn’t started yet, your baby is still gaining weight—around half a pound each week during this final stretch of pregnancy. This means that over a two-week period, you could see your baby gain an entire pound! While the tighter confines of your uterus may limit those big kicks, you’ll still feel plenty of movement, which can sometimes be uncomfortable.
Your Baby at Week 39
Right now, you have a fully developed little one inside of you. Their lungs are ready for the world, and all other systems have matured too. The weight gain you’re noticing is largely due to adorable baby fat that will help them regulate their body temperature after birth. Your baby likely measures between 18 and 20½ inches in length and weighs between 6½ to 8 pounds—essentially the size of a party sub!
Your Symptoms and Health at Week 39
If you’re experiencing discomfort, particularly in the form of hemorrhoids, you’re not alone. The pressure from your growing baby, combined with hormonal changes and a slower digestive system, can lead to swollen blood vessels in the rectal area. While this issue usually resolves itself post-delivery, it doesn’t make it any less annoying while you’re dealing with it. To alleviate discomfort, ensure you’re drinking plenty of fluids (even though you might feel like you’re always running to the bathroom) and consuming fiber-rich foods. Walking can also help, as can sitting in warm water or using cold compresses for relief. If the discomfort becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider—they’re more than ready to help with any concerns.
As you prepare for labor, it’s vital to understand the difference between real contractions and those pesky practice ones. True labor contractions come regularly, get closer together, and increase in intensity, while false labor contractions tend to be irregular and fade away with movement. Remember, not everyone’s experience is textbook. If your doctor has advised you to head to the hospital when contractions are consistently five minutes apart, don’t hesitate to call them if you’re unsure about what you’re feeling.
For further insights on your journey, consider checking out our post on home insemination. And for those looking for quality home insemination products, this resource is an excellent option. You can also explore more about in vitro fertilisation, which provides valuable information on conception and pregnancy.
In summary, week 39 is an exciting and pivotal time in your pregnancy journey. You’re on the brink of meeting your little one, so embrace the emotions—both the joy and the anxieties—as you prepare for the big day.
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