Written by

Gina Conley, MS

September 23, 2024

Week 40: What to Expect During Your Pregnancy

Pregnancy

Welcome to Week 40 of your pregnancy journey! As you reach your due date, you may be experiencing a mix of excitement, anticipation, and maybe even a little frustration. Spoiler alert, I am no longer pregnant! This is the first time I have not been pregnant still at 40 weeks, but I still want to share insights and reflections from my own experiences and previous pregnancies, as well as some practical advice for those of you who might be navigating this moment.

What's Happening with Your Baby at 40 Weeks

On average, your baby is about the size of a small pumpkin or a helium balloon—hard to imagine, right? Don’t worry though, your baby will mold and adjust to your body as they are born! The growth might have slowed down, but they’re still preparing to make their grand entrance. Here’s a glimpse into your baby’s development:

Development and Growth: While your baby has completed the major milestones of development—like lung and brain maturation—there are still some subtle changes happening. Their nails continue to grow, they’re gaining a bit more fat, and their bones are hardening (with the exception of the skull, which remains flexible for birth).
Movement: One common myth is that baby movements slow down as you approach your due date. Not true! It’s essential to keep track of your baby’s movements. They may feel different due to limited space, but consistent movements are a good sign. If you notice a decrease, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider for an assessment.

Changes You Might Experience

What you might be experiencing during Week 40:

Contractions: You may be feeling Braxton Hicks contractions or maybe even experiencing contractions beyond Braxton Hicks known as early labor contractions or prodromal labor. These wave-like contractions will build up, peak at the top and let off and then suddenly stop. These contractions may be painful, but at this point they do not increase in intensity or get closer together.
Discomforts: Common pregnancy discomforts, such as lower back pain and hip pain may continue. Frequent urination and the need to get up to use the bathroom at night may hit an all-time high as baby puts more pressure on your bladder.

My Personal Experience in Week 40

The emotional landscape at 40 weeks can be quite challenging. Many expectant parents feel defeated as the due date arrives without labor starting. While I am no longer pregnant at 40 weeks with baby #4, I went past 40 weeks with babies #1-3. I remember feeling a mix of impatience and anxiety during my own pregnancies. Here are some of my personal insights:

Decisions and Plans: Shared decision-making is crucial. Engage in open conversations with your provider about your options—whether it’s regarding induction or other natural methods. This empowers you to make informed choices that align with your desires for your birth experience.
Occupy Your Time: To cope with the waiting game, I found it helpful to keep myself occupied. Having a daily activity can distract you from the anxiety of waiting for labor to begin. Whether it’s organizing baby clothes or going for gentle walks, staying active can help. Remember, a due date is not an expiration date, it’s a guess date for when you will go into labor and it is completely normal to go past your due date.
Coping Techniques for Prodromal Labor: It can be difficult to manage early labor contraction pains, but you can ease symptoms by trying the following:

Taking a walk

Changing positions often

Taking a bath

Taking a nap
Meditation/yoga/relaxation techniques

Distraction yourself with normal activities

Drinking water

Staying nourished with meals and snacks

Instructors

ROXANNE

Postpartum And Newborn Care

This course breaks down what to expect postpartum from the moment your baby is born to the first few weeks postpartum! Learn what options you have available to you in your care!

Resources

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A post shared by Gina, MS, & Roxanne, RN, BSN (@mamastefit)

While the 40-week mark might feel like the finish line, it’s important to remember that every pregnancy is unique. Many first-time moms may go past their due dates. It’s all part of the beautiful, albeit unpredictable, journey of bringing a new life into the world.

If you find yourself still pregnant beyond this week, don’t worry! You’re not alone, and there are resources available to support you.

It’s natural to worry about needing an induction or the transition to parenthood. It is so important to discuss options with your healthcare provider if an induction is suggested. It’s vital to align the birth plan with your values and preferences. Here are some resources to help you along at 40 weeks:

Natural Induction Methods:

Castor Oil Video: https://youtu.be/CJFMfLo2N8o
Raspberry Leaf Tea: https://youtu.be/zLNig4in4MY
Dates: https://youtu.be/ohennw6rplI
Nipple Stimulation: https://youtu.be/1vj8l9Qzhhw

Blog on Induction Methods: https://mamastefit.com/understanding-induction-of-labor/

Podcast Episode About Induction: https://youtu.be/qbDiiwqQ46c

10 Tips for Navigating Medical Induction: https://youtu.be/d7OPbSDOQiU

Link to read more on the ARRIVE Study: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/arrive/

Workout to Help Baby Get into Position: https://youtu.be/8g2OQs_iNXw

Conclusion

Thank you for joining us for this week’s update on pregnancy at 40 weeks! I hope you find this information helpful as you navigate this exciting yet challenging time. Remember, you’re doing amazing, and your baby will arrive when the time is right.

Until next time, take care of yourself, and we look forward to supporting you in the weeks to come—whether it’s through labor or postpartum recovery. Keep an eye out for our Week 41 update, and remember, every day is a step closer to meeting your little one!

If you’re looking for support during your postpartum period, consider exploring our online postpartum education and postpartum fitness programs!