Week 39

Your body

image to flag post changes in the body section
What to expect

You feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen and may have severe back pain. On the other hand you could also have bursts of energy. There is likely to be a lot of vaginal discharge. If there is a small blob of mucus, it is likely to be 'show'. It is natural to feel anxious - when am I going to deliver?

Baby size

Honeydew melon - Week 39 size guide
What to expect
Your baby is about the size of a large green watermelon - approximately 48 cm long and weighs 3 kilos.

Your baby

Pregnancy weekly guide - baby size
What to expect
Your baby is full term – Congratulations! Baby has acquired birth weight and length and does not grow anymore. However, the nervous system and brain continues to develop rapidly. Baby even has eyelashes!

Taking care

Pregnancy week 39 wellness guide
Tips
Look out for signs of labour, such as -
  • Breaking of water or rupture of the membranes
  • Diarrhoea or nausea, which many women experience just before the onset of labour
  • Spurts of energy or nesting instinct
  • "Show", that is, the loss of the mucous plug (which seals the opening of the uterus)
  • Bloody show - streaks of blood
At this stage -
  • Keep track of foetal movements.
  • Learn how to differentiate between Braxton Hicks and labour contractions.
  • Keep practising relaxation and breathing techniques.
  • You may be advised (very likely in India) induction of labour by your doctor. In many other countries, doctors advise this procedure after 40 weeks.

Ask your doctor

Pregnancy weekly guide - ask your doctor
Questions you may have
  1. I feel contractions. Are these labour pains? When do I need to go into hospital?
  2. What are the emergency signs I should look out for?
  3. How painful is labour!? Can I take medication for the pain?
  4. Is it okay to eat or drink during labour?
  5. Do I have to stay in the hospital? How many days will that be? Can somebody from my family be with me in the hospital?
  6. What do I need to bring to the hospital for my baby?

Your to do list

Pregnancy week 39 wellness guide
Actions
  1. Keep track of baby's movements
  2. Practice relaxation and breathing techniques
  3. Monitor contractions, foetal movements and level of pain
  4. Keep your hospital bag ready and close to the front door.
  5. Keep emergency and important phone numbers at hand.

Questions you may have

Disclaimer

Kushal's services and website offers health, fitness and nutrition related suggestions for informational purposes only. The information provided does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have concerns about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.