Welcome to your week-by-week pregnancy guide with Home Insemination Kit! We’re here to provide you with everything you need to know about what to expect during your pregnancy journey, including symptoms, fetal development, and important appointments. Here’s what’s going on at week 40.
Your Body at 40 Weeks Pregnant
Almost Time to Meet Your Baby
At 40 weeks pregnant, you could go into labor at any moment. While the third trimester has been quite the ride, you’re undoubtedly eager to wrap this up and finally hold your little one. Contrary to popular belief, only about 15 percent of women experience their water breaking before labor begins.
When that moment does arrive, it’s called premature rupture of membranes (PROM). It can sometimes be tricky to differentiate between a trickle of amniotic fluid and a little urine—so don’t be surprised if you have a couple of false alarms! If your water breaks, it may feel like a slow leak or a sudden gush of fluid, usually clear or pale yellow and odorless, which helps distinguish it from urine. If you suspect your water has broken, note the time and start timing any contractions that follow.
Even if your water doesn’t break before labor, contractions are a sure sign that your baby is ready to make their debut. In early labor, you can expect contractions to last between 30 to 60 seconds, with breaks of five to twenty minutes. As they intensify (and yes, they will become more painful), contractions will last 45 to 60 seconds, with breaks shortening to three to five minutes. This indicates that it’s time to head to the hospital to welcome your new arrival!
Your Baby at 40 Weeks Pregnant
At this stage, your baby is approximately the size of a turducken, weighing between six and nine pounds and measuring about 19 to 22 inches long. If they fall outside this range, no need to worry; every baby is unique!
Space is at a premium in your uterus, which means your baby isn’t moving around as much now. You might feel about ten kicks, jabs, or rolls per hour as they prepare for their grand entrance. If this is your first child, they may arrive a little later than expected, so hang tight!
Most of your baby’s bones are now hard, with the exception of their skull, which needs to remain soft and flexible for delivery. These bones won’t fully harden until your baby is about eight to 15 months old. If you opt for a vaginal birth, your little one’s head may appear cone-shaped and slightly bruised at first, but rest assured, they will be perfect in your eyes.
Your Symptoms and Health at 40 Weeks Pregnant
Cervical Changes
As labor approaches, your cervix will begin to dilate and thin out, a process known as effacement. While you may not feel these changes, they are likely occurring during this week. Dilation and effacement will continue as you progress through early and active labor.
Stay Open to Surprises
You may have a clear birth plan in mind, but remember that not everything is within your control. If things don’t go exactly as you envisioned, try to stay calm. You’ve got this, Mama! It’s almost time to meet your little one.
For more information on pregnancy and resources, visit the CDC’s website here for helpful insights. Additionally, you can check out this post for more on childhood hunger. And for expert advice on at-home insemination, look to Make A Mom.
Summary
At 40 weeks pregnant, you could go into labor any moment. Your baby is the size of a turducken, weighing between six to nine pounds. Contractions will start soon, and your body is preparing for delivery as your cervix dilates and effaces. Remember to stay flexible with your birth plan, as surprises can happen.
Keyphrase: 40 weeks pregnant
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