Week 40

You made it—Week 40, the official due date week! Your baby is now about the size of a small pumpkin, measuring around 20–21 inches long and weighing 7.5–8 pounds. They’re fully developed, fully ready, and just waiting for the right moment to make their grand entrance.

What’s Happening in Your Body?

Baby’s organs are all mature, and they’re just building a little more fat each day for life outside the womb. Their brain is still growing rapidly, adding important connections even now.

Most babies are head-down by this point, snugly positioned in your pelvis. Movements may feel different—slow, strong pushes and stretches—but they should still be regular.

For you, your body is in full-on labor prep mode. Your cervix may be softening, thinning, and dilating bit by bit. You might feel new aches, cramps, or even lightning-like twinges (“lightning crotch”) as baby settles even lower.

Common Symptoms This Week

• Pelvic pressure or discomfort—walking might feel awkward or wobbly

• More frequent Braxton Hicks contractions—or early labor contractions

• Lower back pain or period-like cramps

• Vaginal discharge changes, possibly with the “bloody show” (a sign labor is near)

• Trouble sleeping, thanks to nerves and discomfort

• Extreme impatience—you’re so ready for baby to arrive

And remember—only about 5% of babies are born on their actual due date, so don’t stress if you’re still pregnant after this week!

What You Can Do This Week

• Keep tracking baby’s movements—any major decrease means call your provider

• Know the true signs of labor—regular, intensifying contractions, water breaking, or bloody show

• Rest as much as you can—you’ll need your energy for labor

• Stay hydrated and eat light meals if you’re feeling off

• Review your birth plan one last time and have your hospital bag ready

• Practice relaxation techniques—deep breathing, gentle stretching, or simply resting

If you’re anxious about going past your due date, talk with your provider about induction options and when they might be necessary.

And don’t forget to savor this final moment—take one last belly photo, write a quick note to baby, or log your final pregnancy reflections in Cubtale.

Real Talk

Week 40 is the ultimate waiting game. Every ache feels like a sign. Every little change makes you wonder, Is this it? It can feel frustrating, exciting, and nerve-wracking all at once.

Trust your body. Trust your baby. Labor will start when the timing is right.

You’ve come so far. You’re about to meet your baby. 💛