Week 40 of Pregnancy
You’ve officially reached your due date! While only 5% of babies are born exactly on their estimated due date, this milestone still marks a huge achievement in your pregnancy journey. Your body and baby are both fully prepared for labor, even if things feel like they’re taking a little longer. It’s normal to experience a mix of anticipation, impatience, and excitement this week. Keep focusing on rest, hydration, and emotional preparation, you’re about to meet your baby any day now.
Baby’s Size
Your baby is about the size of a collard greens.
Baby’s Development at 40 weeks
Full-Term and Ready
Your baby is considered full-term and is now fully developed, with functioning lungs, brain, and digestive system. They’re just waiting for the right moment to make their entrance.
The once-waxy vernix coating has mostly shed, and your baby's skin may be smoothing out and plumping up, though some flaking is common after birth.
Skin Changes
Positioning for Birth
Most babies are in the head-down position by now, with their chin tucked into their chest and ready to navigate the birth canal.
Sleep and Alert Cycles
Baby is continuing to alternate between active and restful periods, with noticeable patterns in movement throughout the day.
Pregnancy Symptoms during Week 40
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You may feel more intense tightening or cramping that could evolve into early labor.
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Baby’s low position can increase pressure in the pelvis, hips, and lower back, making it hard to walk or sleep.
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These discomforts can be part of your body’s way of warming up for labor. A heating pad or warm bath may help.
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A mucus-like discharge that’s tinged pink or red may be a sign that labor is coming soon.
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The wait can be mentally exhausting. Be kind to yourself, you're doing an amazing job.
Pregnancy checklist at 40 weeks pregnant
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If labor hasn’t started, your care team may schedule a post-date check-in or discuss possible next steps like a membrane sweep or induction.
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Keep tracking your baby’s activity each day. If movements slow down, call your provider.
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Make sure your birth plan is ready and that your support team knows your preferences for labor and delivery.
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Finalize meals, stock up on diapers and nursing supplies, and create a cozy recovery space for your first days at home.
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Practice breathing exercises, journaling, or simply resting with music or a book. Mental calm can make a huge difference.
40 Weeks Pregnant Belly
Your belly is at its fullest and heaviest point. Baby is engaged deep in your pelvis, and the top of your uterus may feel a little lower than previous weeks. You might experience tingling or aching in your legs or groin due to pressure on your nerves. Skin may feel overstretched, and movement may be more limited, try gentle stretching or prenatal yoga to stay comfortable.
Tips & Resources
Download the “Third Trimester Tip Sheet ”: This free resource from ChildbirthU can help guide you through these final days of pregnancy and the early postpartum period.
Revisit the “Partner Support Guide”: Ensure your birth partner is prepared with tools and tips to support you physically and emotionally during labor.
Book a Private 1-on-1 Prenatal Class: Need reassurance or last-minute advice? Our flexible, RN-led prenatal classes are designed to meet you where you're at—even at 40 weeks.
Attend the Free Infant CPR Class: If you haven’t already, now’s a great time to register for ChildbirthU’s hands-on class to feel confident about baby’s safety.
Create a Comfort Toolkit: Fill a bag or basket with massage tools, snacks, affirmations, and labor aids, something to grab quickly when labor begins.