As you enter your 39th week of pregnancy, the time has come for the culmination of your beautiful journey. This pregnancy week marks the final stretch before you meet your baby. At this stage, both you and the baby’s body are fully prepared for birth.
Size and Development of Your Baby at 39 Weeks Pregnant: An In-depth Look
Your baby, being about the size of a watermelon, now weighs approximately 3.3 kg with a body length reaching 50.7 cm. According to health statistics from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, most babies born around this period have an average birth weight of around 3.3 kg and a head circumference of 33.6 cm. The baby’s head now makes up 1/4 of its total length, which is a slight change in body proportions from previous weeks.
The baby’s skin has undergone immense development; it’s now fully formed, and the baby’s brain is mature and ready for its first breath outside the womb. The amniotic sac, which houses your baby, continues to thin out, reaching a thickness of about 34.65 mm. This could slightly restrict the blood flow to the baby, causing a slight lack of oxygen, but it’s all a part of the baby’s natural progression.
Experiencing the 39th Week of Pregnancy: The Physical and Emotional Journey
Most women at 39 weeks pregnant might start to feel a sense of anxious anticipation. Every little symptom or change can feel like the onset of labor. These might include Braxton Hicks contractions or practice contractions, which are common occurrences at this stage. These contractions may not be real contractions leading to labor, but they do help prepare your body for the upcoming birth. The distinction lies in their irregular pattern and the intensity of pain.
Another sign could be a change in the body temperature, an increase in vaginal discharge, or a bloody show, which is a discharge of the mucus plug. These are all signs that the body is getting ready to give birth.
Remember to keep your hospital bag ready, filled with essentials for both you and your baby. Your healthcare provider will guide you on what needs to be in there.
Proper Nutrition at 39 Weeks Pregnant: Fueling You and Your Baby
As you reach the end of your pregnancy, your body undergoes various changes, and so do your dietary requirements. While some moms-to-be might crave spicy food, others might experience an overall increase in appetite. However, doctors recommend avoiding overeating as it could lead to discomfort.
Sticking to a diet rich in protein, like fish and dairy products, and fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help manage hunger and keep you healthy.
Gearing Up for Labor: Preparing for Childbirth at 39 Weeks Pregnant
These last few weeks are an exciting yet nerve-wracking time. It’s essential to prepare both physically and mentally. Be it finishing up on your maternity leave plans or indulging your nesting instinct to get your home ready for the baby, use this time wisely.
What’s equally important is to be prepared for different birth scenarios. Whether it’s a natural birth, a C-section, or inducing labor, discuss all possibilities with your doctor.
Ultrasound at 39 Weeks Pregnant: The Final Glimpse Before Birth
The baby’s development at 39 weeks pregnant is such that it’s fully ready to enter the world. During an ultrasound at this stage, the doctor will examine the baby’s body, its position, and the condition of the amniotic fluid and the umbilical cord.
All of the baby’s organs and systems are already formed and functioning. They’re ready to ensure the survival of the baby after birth.
Conclusion: Reflecting on the Journey at 39 Weeks Pregnant
Entering the 39th week of pregnancy signifies the dawn of an exhilarating time in a mother’s life. The anticipation of meeting your little one fills the air, coupled with a whirlwind of emotions and physical changes. It’s a time of preparation, not just for labor and birth but for the beautiful journey of parenthood that lies ahead.
Despite the mix of excitement and apprehension, remember to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Keep in constant touch with your healthcare provider and make sure your hospital bag is ready to go.
While the wait may seem never-ending, before you know it, you’ll be holding your precious newborn in your arms, making every moment of these 39 weeks of pregnancy worth it. Hold on to these last moments of pregnancy, for they are just as special as the journey that’s about to begin.
Questions and Answers
What should you be feeling at 39 weeks pregnant?
As a woman who is 39 weeks pregnant, you’re likely to encounter a blend of emotions and bodily alterations. The weight you’re carrying often intensifies during this week as your baby is now full-term and on the brink of entering the world. A key physical change you might notice is that your abdomen has descended further into your pelvis, a process referred to as “lightening”, which can provide some relief from discomfort. The frequency of your Braxton Hicks contractions – the body’s method of rehearsing for the real deal – may rise. Additionally, you may find yourself coping with an uptick in fatigue levels, backache, or even the nesting instinct, urging you to organize your surroundings for your baby’s imminent arrival. During this crucial phase of pregnancy, tuning into your body’s needs, taking adequate rest, and maintaining regular communication with your healthcare provider are all essential.
What are the chances of delivering at 39 weeks?
Entering labor varies greatly among individuals, yet statistics indicate that a majority of first-time mothers, approximately 40 weeks into their pregnancy, experience the onset of labor, as reported by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Nevertheless, it’s fairly common for women to start labor one to two weeks before or after their projected due date. Moreover, it’s crucial to highlight that unless there’s a medical necessity, inducing labor prior to the 39-week mark is typically not advocated by healthcare professionals.
What week are you most likely to go into labor?
While it varies from person to person, most first-time moms will give birth around 40 weeks of pregnancy, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. However, many women go into labor a week or two before or after their estimated due date. It’s also important to note that induced labor is typically not recommended before 39 weeks unless medically necessary.
How do you know labor is days away?
While it’s impossible to pinpoint the exact onset of labor, several signs can indicate it’s potentially days away. You might experience an instinctive urge to prepare your home for your baby, often referred to as “nesting.” A noticeable increase in Braxton Hicks contractions, which could evolve into regular labor contractions, is another sign. Your baby’s descent into your pelvis, known as “lightening”, might lead to increased comfort yet more frequent urination. Experiencing the loss of the mucus plug or a change in vaginal discharge can also signal that labor is nearing. Some women encounter a sudden burst of energy, while others may feel exceptionally fatigued. If you think labor is imminent, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider for professional advice and confirmation.
Elizabeth Baker is a mother of three, wife, and the passionate mind behind this pregnancy and baby development resource. She balances her love for understanding every stage of child growth with her duties as a parent. When she’s not sharing her experiences or studying child development, Sarah enjoys family time, reading, and practicing yoga. She believes in the power of shared knowledge to enhance the beautiful journey of parenthood.