39 Weeks Pregnant: Your Baby Is Ready for Birth

How Is My Baby Developing at 39 Weeks?

At 39 weeks, your baby weighs approximately 3.2 kg (7 pounds) and measures about 50 cm (20 inches) from head to heel. The baby is considered full term with all organs fully developed. The lungs are mature, the brain continues rapid development, and toenails have grown to cover the entire nail bed. Your baby has received antibodies through the placenta that will provide immune protection during the first months of life.

Your baby has reached an exciting milestone at 39 weeks - full term status. This means that if labor begins now, your baby is fully prepared for life outside the womb. While many people think of the due date as the target, any time between 39 and 40 weeks is considered optimal for birth, as this is when babies have the lowest risk of complications.

The brain continues its remarkable development during these final weeks and will continue growing rapidly after birth. In fact, the brain will triple in weight during the first year of life. The neural connections that form now and in the coming months will influence everything from motor skills to cognitive abilities. The brain's surface has developed the characteristic folds and grooves that increase its surface area and processing power.

Physical development has reached completion in most areas. Your baby's toenails have now grown to cover the entire nail bed, and the fingernails may even extend past the fingertips. The skin has lost most of the vernix caseosa (the waxy protective coating) and lanugo (fine body hair), though some may remain in skin folds. The skin color has evened out, though the actual skin tone your baby will have won't be apparent until several months after birth.

Immune System Development

One of the most important developments happening in these final weeks is the transfer of antibodies from you to your baby through the placenta. These maternal antibodies, particularly immunoglobulin G (IgG), provide passive immunity that will protect your baby from various infections during the first months of life while their own immune system matures. This is one reason why full-term babies have better immune function than those born early.

The antibodies you transfer depend on your own immune history - infections you've had, vaccinations you've received, and your overall immune status. This is why certain vaccinations during pregnancy (like the flu shot and Tdap) are recommended, as they boost your antibody levels and provide better protection for your baby.

Lung Maturity

Your baby's lungs are now fully mature and producing adequate amounts of surfactant, the substance that keeps the tiny air sacs (alveoli) from collapsing between breaths. This lung maturity is crucial for successful breathing after birth. The lungs have been practicing breathing movements for months, inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid, and are now ready for their first breath of air.

What Changes Happen to Your Body at 39 Weeks?

At 39 weeks, your body undergoes significant preparation for labor. The cervix begins to soften, thin out (efface), and move forward. Many women experience strong Braxton Hicks contractions, extreme fatigue, pelvic pressure, and difficulty sleeping. Some experience a burst of energy called the "nesting instinct." You may notice increased vaginal discharge, including the mucus plug, as labor approaches.

Your body has been working toward this moment for nearly nine months, and now the final preparations are underway. The changes you experience in week 39 are all part of the complex process that prepares your body for labor and delivery. Understanding these changes can help you recognize what's normal and what might signal that labor is beginning.

Many pregnant women at this stage describe feeling exceptionally tired and heavy. This fatigue is your body's way of encouraging rest before the physical demands of labor. Your sleep quality may be compromised by difficulty finding a comfortable position, frequent urination, hip and back pain, and an active baby who seems to have no regard for your sleep schedule. While frustrating, try to rest as much as possible during the day to compensate.

Paradoxically, some women experience a sudden burst of energy in the days before labor begins. This "nesting instinct" can manifest as an overwhelming urge to clean, organize, and prepare the home for the baby. While giving into this urge is fine, try to balance activity with rest - you'll need your energy reserves for labor.

Cervical Changes

The cervix, which has been tightly closed and pointed backward throughout pregnancy, begins significant changes in preparation for birth. It starts to move forward (toward the vaginal opening), soften (ripen), and thin out (efface). Some women may also begin to dilate slightly, though this can happen days or even weeks before active labor begins.

Your healthcare provider may check your cervical progress during prenatal visits in these final weeks. However, it's important to understand that cervical changes don't reliably predict when labor will begin. Some women walk around dilated 3 cm for weeks, while others go from closed to fully dilated in just hours.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions often intensify during week 39. These "practice contractions" help tone the uterine muscles and may contribute to cervical ripening. They typically feel like a tightening across your abdomen that comes and goes irregularly. Unlike true labor contractions, Braxton Hicks don't increase in intensity, duration, or frequency over time, and they often stop when you change position or activity.

What Are the Signs That Labor Is Starting?

Signs that labor is starting include regular contractions that increase in intensity, duration, and frequency over time; your water breaking (rupture of membranes); bloody show or loss of the mucus plug; lower back pain that comes in waves; and increased pelvic pressure. True labor contractions follow the 5-1-1 pattern: 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, continuing for at least 1 hour.

Recognizing the difference between early labor signs and normal end-of-pregnancy symptoms is one of the most common concerns for expectant parents at this stage. While every labor is unique, there are key signs that indicate your body has begun the active process of preparing to deliver your baby.

True labor contractions are the most reliable sign that labor has begun. Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, true labor contractions follow a pattern of becoming progressively stronger, longer, and closer together. They typically start in your lower back and wrap around to the front of your abdomen. These contractions continue regardless of activity or position change and become more intense over time.

The "5-1-1 rule" is a helpful guideline for timing contractions: when contractions are coming every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute each, and have continued this pattern for at least 1 hour, it's typically time to contact your healthcare provider or head to the hospital. However, if you've given birth before, you may need to act sooner as subsequent labors often progress faster.

Water Breaking

The rupture of membranes, commonly called "water breaking," occurs when the amniotic sac surrounding your baby tears. This can happen as a dramatic gush or a slow, steady leak. Amniotic fluid is typically clear and odorless, though it may have a slight sweet smell. If your water breaks, note the time, color, and amount of fluid, and contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Contrary to popular portrayal in movies, only about 15-20% of women experience their water breaking before contractions begin. For most women, the membranes rupture during active labor or are artificially ruptured by a healthcare provider.

Bloody Show and Mucus Plug

As your cervix begins to dilate, you may lose the mucus plug that has sealed the cervical opening throughout pregnancy. This can appear as a thick, mucus-like discharge that may be clear, pink, or tinged with blood. The "bloody show" refers to the pink or blood-streaked discharge that occurs as blood vessels in the cervix rupture during dilation.

Losing your mucus plug doesn't mean labor is imminent - it can happen days or even weeks before labor begins. However, if accompanied by regular contractions or your water breaking, it's likely a sign that labor is progressing.

When Should I Go to the Hospital?

Go to the hospital when contractions follow the 5-1-1 pattern (5 minutes apart, 1 minute long, for 1 hour), your water breaks, you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, severe constant abdominal pain, or notice significantly reduced fetal movement. If this is not your first baby, go sooner as labor typically progresses faster. Always trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, seek medical evaluation.

Knowing when to go to the hospital is one of the most anxiety-provoking aspects of late pregnancy. Going too early can result in being sent home, while waiting too long can mean a stressful rush or even delivery en route. Understanding the guidelines and trusting your instincts will help you make the right decision.

For first-time mothers, the 5-1-1 rule provides a reliable guideline. When your contractions are coming every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute each, and have maintained this pattern for at least 1 hour, it's time to head to the hospital. This pattern indicates that active labor is likely established and progressing.

If you've given birth before, you should consider going to the hospital sooner - perhaps when contractions are 7-8 minutes apart - as subsequent labors often progress more quickly. Some women with fast previous labors may need to go even earlier. Discuss your birth history with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan.

Situations Requiring Immediate Hospital Attention

Certain situations require immediate medical attention regardless of contraction pattern. These include your water breaking (especially if the fluid is green, brown, or has a foul odor, which could indicate meconium or infection), heavy vaginal bleeding (more than a light period), severe or constant abdominal pain that doesn't come and go like contractions, signs of preeclampsia (severe headache, vision changes, upper abdominal pain), or significantly reduced fetal movement.

How Should I Prepare for Labor at 39 Weeks?

Prepare for labor by ensuring your hospital bag is packed, your route planned, and your support person ready. Rest as much as possible and maintain good nutrition to build energy reserves. Review breathing techniques and labor positions from childbirth classes. Have your car seat installed and checked. Keep your phone charged and have important numbers accessible.

With your due date just around the corner, these final days are about completing your preparations and conserving energy for labor. Practical preparation combined with mental and physical readiness will help you feel confident when labor begins.

Your hospital bag should be packed and by the door. Essential items include your identification and insurance information, birth plan copies, comfortable clothing for labor and postpartum, toiletries, phone charger, snacks for your support person, going-home outfit for you and baby, and an installed car seat. Many hospitals provide basic supplies for baby during your stay, but check with your specific facility.

Plan your route to the hospital, including alternate routes in case of traffic or construction. Consider doing a practice drive during rush hour if you haven't already. Ensure your vehicle has adequate fuel, and confirm any childcare arrangements for older children.

Physical Preparation

Rest is essential during these final days. Your body is working hard preparing for labor, and you'll need energy reserves for the physical demands of delivery. Try to sleep when you can, even if nighttime sleep is disrupted. Napping during the day is perfectly acceptable and encouraged.

Continue eating nutritious meals to maintain your strength. Light, easily digestible foods are often better tolerated as your due date approaches. Stay well-hydrated, though you may want to reduce fluid intake before bedtime to minimize nighttime bathroom trips.

Light activity like walking can help maintain fitness and may encourage optimal fetal positioning. However, avoid exhausting yourself with strenuous activity. Listen to your body and rest when needed.

Mental Preparation

Review the breathing techniques, relaxation methods, and labor positions you learned in childbirth classes. Practice these with your support person so they can help coach you during labor. Visualization techniques - imagining a positive birth experience - can help reduce anxiety and build confidence.

It's normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety as your due date approaches. Talk to your partner, healthcare provider, or other trusted individuals about any fears or concerns. Understanding that labor is unpredictable and that flexibility is important can help manage expectations.

What Positions Can Help During Labor?

Effective labor positions include upright positions (standing, walking, sitting on a birth ball), hands-and-knees, side-lying, squatting, and leaning forward over a bed or chair. Movement and position changes help the baby descend, can reduce pain, and may speed labor progress. Avoid lying flat on your back for extended periods, as this can reduce blood flow to the baby.

Understanding different labor positions before your delivery day allows you to experiment and find what works best for you. Research shows that upright and active positions during labor can reduce pain, shorten labor, and decrease the need for interventions. Having a variety of options in your toolkit gives you choices throughout the labor process.

Upright positions use gravity to help your baby descend and can help the pelvis open to its maximum dimensions. Walking, standing, slow dancing with your partner, or sitting on a birth ball are all effective options for early labor. These positions keep you mobile and comfortable while labor establishes.

The hands-and-knees position is particularly helpful for back labor, when the baby is positioned with their back against your spine. This position encourages the baby to rotate to a more optimal position and takes pressure off your lower back. It can also be useful for managing strong contractions.

Positions for Active Labor and Delivery

Squatting opens the pelvic outlet to its maximum diameter and uses gravity effectively. Full squatting may be too tiring for extended periods, but supported squatting using a squat bar or with your partner's support can be very effective during pushing.

Side-lying is an excellent resting position between contractions and can be particularly helpful if you have an epidural. This position maintains good blood flow to the baby while allowing you to rest. Placing a pillow between your knees increases comfort and keeps the pelvis open.

Leaning forward - whether over a bed, chair, or your partner - can help relieve back pain and allow your support team to provide massage and counter-pressure. This position is often comfortable during contractions and allows for easy position changes.

Why Is Breastfeeding Recommended?

Breast milk is uniquely tailored to your baby's nutritional needs and contains antibodies that protect against infections. Breastfeeding provides health benefits for both mother and baby, including reduced risk of infections, allergies, and chronic diseases for baby, and faster postpartum recovery for mother. The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life.

Understanding the benefits of breastfeeding before your baby arrives can help you make informed feeding decisions and prepare for this new experience. Breast milk is a living substance that changes to meet your baby's evolving needs, providing not just nutrition but also immune protection and optimal conditions for growth and development.

Your breast milk is specifically designed for your baby. It contains the perfect balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates for optimal digestion and brain development. Beyond basic nutrition, breast milk contains living cells, enzymes, and antibodies that cannot be replicated in formula. These components protect your baby from infections and help establish a healthy gut microbiome.

The first milk your breasts produce, colostrum, is often called "liquid gold" for its concentrated immune benefits. Rich in antibodies, white blood cells, and growth factors, colostrum helps protect your newborn during their vulnerable first days while also helping establish breastfeeding.

Health Benefits for Mother and Baby

For babies, breastfeeding reduces the risk of respiratory infections, ear infections, gastrointestinal infections, and diarrheal diseases. Long-term benefits include reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), childhood obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain allergic conditions. Breastfed babies may also have advantages in cognitive development.

For mothers, breastfeeding promotes faster postpartum recovery by stimulating uterine contractions that help the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size. Long-term benefits include reduced risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Breastfeeding also promotes bonding and can have positive effects on maternal mental health.

What Should I Know About Cesarean Section?

A cesarean section (C-section) is a surgical delivery method where the baby is delivered through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. C-sections may be planned (scheduled) for known medical conditions or unplanned (emergency) when complications arise during labor. Understanding the procedure helps you feel prepared if a C-section becomes necessary, even if you're planning a vaginal birth.

While most women plan for vaginal delivery, approximately 20-30% of births worldwide are via cesarean section. Understanding this procedure ensures you're prepared for any outcome and can make informed decisions if circumstances change during labor.

Planned cesarean sections are scheduled in advance for various reasons, including certain medical conditions, placenta previa (placenta covering the cervix), baby in breech position that cannot be turned, multiple previous C-sections, or maternal request. These surgeries are typically scheduled at 39 weeks when the baby is full term but before spontaneous labor begins.

Unplanned cesarean sections, sometimes called emergency C-sections, occur when complications arise that make vaginal delivery unsafe for mother or baby. These can include fetal distress (concerning heart rate patterns), failure to progress in labor (cervix stops dilating), umbilical cord problems, or placental abruption (placenta separating from the uterine wall).

What to Expect During a C-Section

During a cesarean section, you'll receive anesthesia - usually a spinal or epidural block that numbs you from the chest down while allowing you to remain awake. A screen is placed to block your view of the surgical field. The surgeon makes an incision through your abdomen and uterus, typically a horizontal "bikini line" cut that heals well.

The actual delivery of the baby takes only a few minutes, though the entire procedure lasts 45 minutes to an hour. In many hospitals, immediate skin-to-skin contact is possible even during a C-section, and breastfeeding can begin soon after delivery.

Recovery from a cesarean section typically involves 2-4 days in the hospital. You'll experience incision pain that is managed with medications, and full recovery takes 6-8 weeks. Despite the longer recovery, many women have very positive C-section birth experiences.

What Happens at the Delivery Ward?

At the delivery ward, you'll be welcomed by midwives or nurses who assess your labor progress, monitor your baby's heart rate, and support you through delivery. You'll have a private or semi-private room where you can move, use comfort measures, and have your support person present. After delivery, you and your baby will remain together for bonding and initial breastfeeding.

Knowing what to expect when you arrive at the delivery ward can help reduce anxiety and allow you to focus on labor. While each hospital has its own specific procedures, there are common elements to the delivery ward experience.

When you arrive, you'll typically check in at the labor and delivery unit where a nurse or midwife will assess your condition. This initial assessment includes checking your vital signs, evaluating your contractions, examining your cervix to determine dilation and effacement, and monitoring your baby's heart rate. Based on this assessment, staff will determine whether you're in active labor and should be admitted.

Once admitted, you'll be assigned to a labor room where you'll stay throughout labor and delivery. Most modern labor rooms are designed to be comfortable and home-like while having all necessary medical equipment available. Your support person can stay with you throughout labor and delivery.

During Labor

Throughout labor, your healthcare team will monitor your progress and your baby's well-being. Fetal heart rate monitoring may be continuous or intermittent depending on your risk level and hospital protocols. You'll have regular cervical checks to assess dilation progress, though the frequency varies based on your preferences and labor progress.

You'll have options for pain management, including non-pharmacological methods (breathing, positioning, massage, water therapy) and pharmacological options (epidural, nitrous oxide, IV medications). Discuss your preferences with your healthcare team, remaining open to adjustments based on how labor unfolds.

After your baby is born, immediate skin-to-skin contact is encouraged as it helps regulate baby's temperature and breathing, promotes bonding, and facilitates breastfeeding. The first breastfeeding attempt is often encouraged within the first hour of life when babies are typically alert and ready to feed.