39 Weeks Pregnant

How Big is Baby at 39 Weeks?

Your baby is now about the size of a watermelon, or around 50.7cm / 20 inches long from head to heel, weighing about 7 to 7.5 pounds or 3.17 to 3.4 kg, though sizes and weights can vary significantly. Your baby’s head has a circumference of about 13.5 to 14 inches, preparing them for the journey through the birth canal.

Your baby’s skin looks very different than it did a few weeks ago, when it was almost transparent. Now it is thicker and appears more solid, which is essential for protecting your baby’s organs out in the real world and also for regulating their body temperature.

The skin is also now covered in a white, waxy substance called “vernix” which aids the passage through the birth canal. This may all have disappeared at birth or your baby may still be covered in it.

Your Body at 39 Weeks

By the 39th week, your body is making final preparations for labour and delivery. The baby has likely dropped lower into your pelvis, a process known as “lightening” or “engagement,” which can relieve some pressure on your ribs and lungs, making it a bit easier to breathe. However, this can also increase pressure on your bladder, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom.

Your cervix is also undergoing changes to prepare for birth. It may begin to soften, thin (efface), and open (dilate). These changes can occur gradually over weeks or, for some, might happen swiftly over just a few days.

Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 39

At 39 weeks pregnant, you may experience a variety of symptoms as your body prepares for labour:

Nesting Instinct: An increase in energy and the urge to clean and organise your home is known as the nesting instinct. It’s perfectly normal, although you should avoid overexertion.

Braxton Hicks Contractions: These “practice” contractions might become more frequent and intense as you near your due date. Unlike real labour contractions, they are usually not painful and do not occur at regular intervals.

Pelvic Pressure: As your baby drops lower into your pelvis, you may feel increased pressure and discomfort in your pelvic area. This can also lead to more pronounced swelling in your legs and feet.

Back Pain: The extra weight and shift in your body’s centre of gravity can cause ongoing back discomfort. Gentle exercise, stretching, and good posture can help alleviate this pain.

Insomnia: Many women find it difficult to get comfortable enough to sleep well during the final weeks of pregnancy. Try using pillows to support your bump, back, and legs.

Mood Swings: Hormonal changes, coupled with anticipation and anxiety about giving birth, can cause significant mood swings. It’s important to talk about your feelings and seek support from loved ones or a professional if needed.

Increased Vaginal Discharge: You may notice more vaginal discharge, which can be thick, sticky, and white. If it becomes very watery or bloody-tinged, contact your healthcare provider, as this could indicate labour is starting or it might be the mucus plug coming out (called a “show”).

Diarrhoea: Some women experience loose stools just before labour begins due to the relaxation of muscles in the area.

What Should I be Worried About?

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, you need to seek medical help urgently:

• persistent abdominal pain
• vaginal bleeding
• vaginal discharge that is brown or pink
• severe itching, especially at night
• persistent headache
• vision disturbances such as blurring, sensitivity to light or seeing spots or flashing lights
• extreme swelling of hands, feet, ankles and face
• a high temperature which is not due to having a cold or flu

Preparing for Labour

This is a good time to make sure your hospital bag is packed and ready to go. Include items you’ll need for your stay, such as a change of clothes, toiletries, snacks, and any specific items your doctor has advised you to bring. Also, ensure your transportation plans to the hospital are in place.

Things You Might Not Know That Happen at Birth

• At the exact moment your baby is born, he or she will not be wailing – it will probably be a few seconds before this happens.
• Your baby’s circulation will not be working properly straight away, so the hands and feet might be blue, and the rest of the body red or purple for the first few weeks.
• Baby will be practising breathing straight after being born, so expect the rate of breathing to change rapidly and for there to be gaps of a few seconds.
• You might not instantly bond with your baby so don’t worry – just ask for help if you need it.

Week 39 is a period of watching, waiting, and maybe a bit of wishing. While it can be uncomfortable and anxiety-inducing, it’s also a time filled with hope and excitement for the new life about to begin. Remember to rest as much as possible, follow your doctor’s advice, and prepare for the incredible journey of childbirth. As each pregnancy is unique, always communicate with your doctor or midwife about any concerns or symptoms you may be experiencing. Your journey through pregnancy is nearing its wonderful conclusion, and soon you’ll be holding your new baby in your arms.