40 Weeks Pregnant

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Here's what's happening during Week 40 of your pregnancy:

Your Growing Baby

Congratulations - your baby is now fully formed and ready to be born.

Your Growing Belly

If your due date has come and gone, your pregnancy is officially post-date. If you're still pregnant two weeks from now, then your pregnancy will be post-term. Anywhere from three to twelve percent of pregnant women may go post-term. The good news is that the baby is going to come out at some point—the bad news is that it may be as much as two weeks from now.

In the meantime, your care provider will check your dilation (how open your cervix is, if at all) and effacement (how thick your cervix is), to try to predict when labor will begin. If you hit forty-two weeks, your doctor will assess your health with a non-stress test and may use ultrasound to see if your baby has enough amniotic fluid. If your baby seems fine, you and your care provider can discuss when to schedule induction of labor. No matter what, one way or another, somehow, that baby's getting out!

Tips & To-Do's

Undress For Success

Yes, breastfeeding is one of the most natural acts in the world, but it can be difficult—especially in the early days, when you are learning the ropes. A mom who has breastfed successfully may be able to help in a pinch, but if you have real problems such as difficulty latching or sore nipples, you may need a lactation consultant. 5 simple ways to become a lactation maven >>

Things to think about this week

Relish these last days of feeling that little being moving and grooving inside your body. You won't believe how much you'll miss it.

 

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